Ethics in Theatre

There are things we need to keep in mind as we work together to present plays that reach for excellence. This is not a complete listing of ways to govern our behavior but it is a clear start. Please pay attention to everything that follows.

1. Do not touch any prop that has not been assigned to you or your character. Always return props from whence they came or to a spot assigned by the props master.

2. Remember that any noise off stage right or left can be heard by people on stage and often by the audience as well. This disturbs concentration and spoils the illusion. So, DON'T TALK.

3. DonŐt try to peek through the curtains to take a look at the audience. You will see them during the curtain call. If they catch you doing this, we again spoil the illusion and we look like a bunch of amateurs who don't know what they are doing.

4. Do not bother actors who are trying to get into character, especially just prior to an entrance. You risk breaking their concentration and throwing them off.

5. Do not eat anything once you are in costume and make-up. Be sure your costume remains in good shape. At the end of each performance, return your costume neatly to the proper rack, otherwise it will not be in the condition you need it to be at the next performance. After the last performance, return your costume to the costume room unless you have provided your own costume. In that case, take it home.

6. Listen to the needs of others and be supportive.

7. Be sure you are in place and ready for your cues. Others depend on you and being out of place can and may do irreparable harm.

8. Treat one another as a family. Respect differences and work for the total effect of the show.

9. Remember to create the moment before and be in the moment on stage.