Q&As

            Q: What will I learn from this production?

            A: Students will learn the basics of stage acting in an environment meant to recreate a professional theater setting. Students will learn how to effectively communicate using Shakespeare’s complex language, how to utilize their voice and body to effectively tell a story, and how to work with an ensemble. In addition, students will learn useful technical theater skills such as set design, prop management, basics of stage makeup, and much more.

            Q: What does it mean if I am cast as a Production Team Member?

            A: Being cast as a PTM means that you are still an important  part of the production but you will not be seen on stage (except in the case of understudies). This is a special opportunity for students who want to see what it is like to be a part of Technical Theater! PTM members include Stage Managers (helps oversee the entire production like a right hand man to the director), Set Designers (oversees set design and construction), Prop Managers (gather props and smaller set pieces for rehearsals and performance), and Costumers (gather rehearsal costumes and show costumes as well as helping with hair and makeup). These positions may be given in addition to an on-stage role or separate from an on-stage role.

            Q: What does it mean if I am cast as an understudy?

            A: You will only be cast as an understudy if you are also cast as either an on-stage actor or a PTM. Understudies will not have to come to all rehearsals that their character is called to but they will be required to learn all the lines and general blocking of their character. Understudying could be a good choice for someone who prefers to be behind the scenes but would like to try-out acting as well.

            Q: Can I be an on-stage actor and a PTM?

            A: Yes! Make sure you mark on your information sheet at auditions that you would be willing to do both. If you are not cast as a PTM don’t worry! You will still be put on a PTM’s crew to help with one of the many production needs.

            Q: Will I be able to decide if I want to be an actor, PTM, or understudy?

            A: Yes. When you get to your audition you will be able to specify on your form whether you are willing to be an actor, PTM, or understudy. Keep in mind this may affect how you are cast.

            Q: If I want to be a PTM and don’t want to be an actor do I still have to audition?

            A:Yes. I still want to see how you take direction and if you are willing to do things outside your comfort zone. In addition to your monologue there will be a time for me to ask you questions and you to ask me questions to see where you would best fit on the team. If you would like a special exception please contact me.

Q: Is there an age limit?

A: Yes. This program is for ages 13 and up, however exceptions can be considered on a case by case basis.

Q: Will parents be required to help with the production?

A: No, but it is encouraged and appreciated. As part of their training, students will be asked to lead production management such as costumes, sets and props, however it is ideal that they be paired with an adult. A parent helper sign-up sheet will be provided at auditions.

Q: How should I prepare for auditions?

A: Find a monologue that is close to one minute. If it is less than thirty seconds it is too short, if it is more than two minutes it is too long. Choose a piece that allows you to truly be a character. You want to show case something interesting you can bring to the production! At your audition you may be asked to make adjustments on the fly. This is just to see how well you take direction. Make sure you know the play! Read an annotated copy (Folgers is a great version) or watch a production.

Q: What will happen at callbacks?

A: Callbacks will consist mostly of cold-readings (portions of the play that you read without any real preparation). Don’t feel nervous about the text being new. Focus on getting across the ideas rather than getting every word perfect. Not everyone will get a callback. If you don’t get a callback it doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be cast in the show it just means I don’t think I need to see more from you.

Q: Where will callbacks and the cast list be posted?

A: All cast info will either be sent out by email or posted on the production blog: http://muchadoaboutnothing2015.blogspot.com/