we need to support each other. Part of that support is abiding by the rules. I put these rules in place so that everything is transparent and understood from the beginning. I appreciate your COOPERATION. Failure to COOPERATE is grounds for Dismisal from the program.
- Never talk when the Director or Executive Member is talking
- 15 minutes early is on time. On Time is LATE. Late is Unacceptable.
- No Mobile Phones, especially in the wings or off stage. When you are waiting to enter or supporting on-stage cast from the wings, the show deserves all of your attention. Put the phone away and save texting, snapchatting, facebooking, tweeting or anything of the like for after rehearsal or after the night’s show.
- Accept all notes from the director graciously and say, “Thank you.” Never disagree with the director in front of the cast and if you don't understand the note or disagree, ask the director from some one-on-one time to discuss.
- Never give other actors notes and don't accept them from other actors. If someone affects you notes, say “Thank you but we should take that to the director.” The only members of the production who should be giving notes are the director or the stage manager (choreographer or Music Director as well for musicals). Its their job to make sure things look and sound they way the producer wants, not yours. Constructive Criticism among the cast is welcome, even encouraged since that is how we learn, but all changes to the production must go through the director.
- Never add or remove something from your costume. It is the costume designer’s job to put you in something appropriate for the show. Not yours. They work hard to cloth you. It is not your job to like it; it is your job to wear it. If you have suggestions or problems with your costume go to the Costume Designer or Stage Manager and speak respectfully about it. Do Not Complain.
- Do not hang out in the wings to watch the show. Backstage areas can be tight while crew and your fellow actors have to get to where they need to be. If you wanted to watch the show, buy a ticket or get the DVD. Hang out and wait in the Dressing/Green Room.
- Keep the dressing/Green room neat and clean. You are going to be living here a while and there is nothing more terrifying than losing a piece of your costume or a prop amongst the mess moments before you go on.
- Be aware of off stage sight lines. If you can see the audience then they can see you.
- Pay attention to the stage manager. They will be telling you important stuff to keep the show(s) running smoothly. And don't forget to thank the stage manager when they give call (“5 minutes to places” “Thank you 5”). Repeat the major instruction so that the stage manager know you heard what they said and are ready to go.
- Never touch someone else’s prop. It is where it is for a reason. Don't help or play with it and move it. Bring it up to the stage manager if you think it is in the wrong place.
- Always check your props before curtain. Things happen, props get bumped or moved or crushed. If your prop becomes lost or damaged report it immediately to the Props Designer or Stage Manager.
- Do not ad-lib or improvise in a show. It is never funny to just add or change lines in a show. Other actors are depending on you to deliver certain lines. If you change it you can mess with the performance of actors around you or the crew waiting for a cue.
- Never miss call time. If you are going to be late you inform the stage manager. Not a fellow cast mate to tell the stage manager, but the stage manager directly so they can alter scheduling or calls to fit the change.
- Always give your best. Whether it is a matinee or the last show and you are tired there is a house full of audience members who paid and took their time to see your performance. It is always someone’s first time in a theater. Make their experience a good one and give the audience what they deserve.
- When you step off stage you vanish. Walk quietly backstage, in access corridors, stairways, and everywhere in the theater. No talking and avoid whispering back stage. No loud noises in the dressing room. Nothing ruins a scene more than bumps, running, or music in the wings during a performance.
- Always warm up and take it seriously. Your body is your instrument and you need to take care of it. Do your best to stay healthy.
- Any press how calls take your full respect and attention. People depend on you.
- Use Rehearsal to explore your character(s). Not during the show. Take chances there and expand. Stay energized.
- No physical contact in scenes without prior discussion/ permission.
- There will be no PDA during Drama Club/ Theatre Events. Your relationship is not the focus of attention and can become a distraction to others, as well as the relationship. Keep it easy and think of your relationship imaginary during sponsored functions and meetings.
- No part of this process needs your ego. It is about the show, not your self esteem.
- Unless otherwise instructed, be off book the second time you run a scene.
- Wear correct rehearsal clothing: Athletic clothing, Closed toed shoes, NO JEANS unless on crew.
- Always be respectful of everyone you work with: the staff, crew, designers, directors, other actors, producer and yourself.