Read the play for the story. Then read it again, concentrating on the stage directions. Typically, playwrights give insightful clues on how to stage the play. Make two copies of the play: one for the story and one for the blocking. Make notes in the blocking script throughout the rehearsal process.
Discuss the play with your set designer. Make sure your designer doesn't add any unnecessary set pieces to clutter the stage. The set should help the actors, not get in their way. Discuss scene changes and how quickly those can happen with the set. A fast scene change looks stylish when done with ease. Also, discuss colors, textures and furniture with the designer. The look of the production is ultimately your decision.
Direct the actors to improvise their blocking for a few rehearsals, and take notes on what works and what doesn't. Sometimes actors instinctively move in ways you would have never considered. Encourage your actors to follow their impulses and move with conviction. When they don't know how to move, that's when you step in.
Clarify the movement later in the rehearsal. Ensure there are no extraneous movements on stage. Every move must mean something and have a purpose. Every move must also show the audience who the characters are. If there is a fight sequence, hire a fight director to stage it, unless you are confident you can do so. A well-choreographed fight adds to the audience's experience. Also, if you have characters dancing on stage, make sure you choreograph the dance perfectly.
Continue to clarify the movements, fight sequences and dances throughout the process. Once your actors are in dress rehearsals, ensure they can move properly in their costumes. If you're doing a Restoration comedy, coach the actresses to use their huge skirts and fans to tell the story. Make costume adjustments if actors cannot move properly.
Choreograph the curtain call. This is the final piece of staging the audience will see. If it looks professional, the audience will remember what an amazing show they saw. The curtain call should be brief, highlighting the lead actors. The leads should bow together in front of everyone else, then the entire cast should bow together then exit the stage. If the audience continues clapping, the actors may return to the stage for one more bow, but no more than that. Leave the audience wanting more.