In 2026, we launched the Directors Development Programme (DDP), providing participants with opportunities to develop their directorial practice through hands-on experience, mentorship and attachments to productions.

The programme supports participants in building their directorial skills across the rehearsal and production process, giving them the opportunity to learn through practice and gain a deeper understanding of the different stages involved in directing for the theatre.

Current Participants

Irsyad Dawood

Through mentorship and hands-on experience as Assistant Director for La Luna under Mohd Fared Jainal, Irsyad is developing his directorial practice and will be directing Hantu Kaki Kotor.

Siti Khalijah Zainal

Siti Khalijah began her directorial journey with Ekamatra’s showcase at ASWARA’s Festival Teater Antarnusa in Kuala Lumpur, where she directed two works: a 10-minute on-site piece and a 30-minute performance. The experience gave her the opportunity to work across two formats, developing her approach to directing within the constraints of time, space and the festival setting. She worked closely with performers and the creative team to shape both pieces from development to performance, gaining hands-on experience in leading a production from a director’s perspective.

Ali Mazrin

Ali will begin his directorial development under the guidance of mentors, who will support and guide him as he prepares for his fringe showcase, a staging of Jamil Sekadar Nama - a script developed during his artist residency.