Stage directions can be complicated for two reasons: one, directors may choose to ignore them in favor of stylistic or other creative changes, subject to their own interpretation. Two, stage directions that are too vague or too specific may cause problems for directors and performers, either because too little information is provided, or too much detail can limit the portrayal of a character.

Most theatrical productions will reflect the original playwright's intentions as far as they are practical, but sometimes interpretation allows for very dramatic changes; such as when Shakespeare's plays are set in different historical eras, locations or with contemporary social contexts. Realistic plays like Look Back in Anger are usually performed "as written" because they are specific portrayal of moments in time that capture the zeitgeist of their era and/or their particular locations (in this case the Midlands). Some playwrights are also known for very literary and descriptive stage directions because they reflect the literary quality of the play (this applies to playwrights like Tennessee Williams, whose plays were also very specific to certain locations).

Osbourne's play was innovative for its time, because it portrayed a very naturalistic atmosphere and the dialogue was very realistic. Because the play's thematic concerns have to do with an exposure of the frustration of the young working class, the very detailed and specific stage directions and descriptions of actor's movements and mannerisms helped to create an authentic and powerful portrayal of this social context.