Directing The Caucasian Chalk Circle

Abstract

This thesis is an attempt to document and reflect on the process of directing a production of Bertolt Brecht's play The Caucasian Chalk Circle, in a translation by Alistair Beaton, as a culminating project in my Master's training in Directing at the University of Washington's School of Drama. The Caucasian Chalk Circle was produced by The School of Drama in The Meany Hall Studio Theatre and ran from November 2, 2024 through November 10, 2024. This paper includes analysis of the play, discussions of the collaborative process with designers and actors, and consideration of how key ideas evolved over the course of the production process, as well as reflections on my personal development as a director and artist.