I'm a freelance director and writer working in theatre, opera and musical theatre, an Honorary Associate Director of the Royal Shakespeare Company, long time Principal Guest Director of the Royal Dramatic Theatre, Stockholm (Dramaten) and author of Theatre Craft, a companion for aspiring directors of all ages and stages, published by Faber and Faber.

My most recent productions include my new musicals Estella Scrooge in New York and Knights' Tale in Japan (both with scores by Paul Gordon), my new theatre adaptation of Miyazaki's animated film Spirited Away, also in Japan, and a new production of Monteverdi's Orfeo for Garsington Opera in the UK.

Coming up is a revival of Daddy Long Legs in Tokyo with Mone Kamishiraishi and Yoshio Inoue and Tosca at LA Opera and Houston Grand Opera with Angel Blue (in LA) and Tamara Wilson (in Houston) singing the title role.

This website contains an archive of many of my past productions with descriptions, photos and links. The site is a work in progress so please forgive omissions and mistakes until I've had a chance to fix everything.

Theatre Craft
A Director's Practical Companion from A to Z

Faber and Faber published my book Theatre Craft on 18th March 2010. It is a comprehensive hand-book for the professional director – or the aspirant amateur.

“This book is written with such humour and common sense that I may have to carry it around with me all the time.”

“John Caird’s book is ample evidence of his skill, sensitivity, and good humour. Every young director should have a copy to hand.”

“John Caird is the most generous of mentors—delightful and delighted by the people around him. A director gifted with musicality, rigour, wit, and good grace.”