In 1999, SDCF hosted a panel moderated by Executive Director of SSDC, Barbara Hauptman featuring Artistic Director of Adobe Theatre Company Jeremy Dobrish, Artistic Director of Drama Dept. Theatre Company Douglas Carter Beane, Artistic Director of Blue Light Theater Company Greg Naughton, Artistic Director of Abingdon Theatre Company Jan Buttram, and Co-Artistic Director of The Barrow Group Seth Barrish. The panelists discuss the importance of the collaborative approach and sense of community within their companies, and the challenge of finding a director who shares their sense of purpose. Since directors aren't auditioned the way actors are, selecting a new director can be the hardest part of the production process. These artistic directors share their approach to finding the best new director to work with their companies.