A key element of the theater event is the director-the person who rehearses the performers and coordinates their work with that of other theater artists to make certain that the script is performed appropriately, intelligently, and excitingly. While it is sometimes argued that the director did not exist prior to 1874, it is generally recognized that the function of the director has always existed. In the twentieth century, the auteur directors have come into being: directors who are really the authors of the plays they direct, taking responsibility for shaping every element of the production, including the script. Frequently, it is the responsibility of the director to choose the script, decide upon the "spine" of the play, determine a style for the production, and arrive at a concept. Occasionally, the director will take advantage of the assistance of a dramaturg, whose contributions to the director's work can be very important. At the same time that the director is developing a conceptual approach to the play, he or she is also working with the designers on the physical production. In addition, the director is responsible for casting the play, conducting rehearsals, and serving as the audience's eye until the play's opening. The director gives shape and structure to a play in two dimensions-in space, and in time-and thus, must be careful that the production's movement, pace, and rhythm are appropriate and effective. In addition to the director, the producer or, in a nonprofit theater, the manager oversees the entire business and publicity side of a production: maintaining the theater, arranging publicity, handling finances, and managing ticket sales, budgets, ushers, and so forth.