Rehearsal & Performance Expectations

Be On Time. The number two rule of design and production is “Early is on time, on time is late, and late is unforgivable.”  Remember that everybody’s time is valuable. If for some reason you are running late, contact your stage manager.

Access Through Green Room Door: Performers should exclusively use the green room door for entering the theatre, avoiding the lobby entrances, which are not meant for backstage access.

Sign-in on Arrival:  Sign-in sheets are found inside the green room on the call board.  Failure to sign in on time, even if you are in the building, will still result in you being marked late.  Signing in is your way of communicating with Stage Management and your crew that you are present and ready to work.  Under NO circumstances should you sign in for someone else. 

Dress Appropriately. Make sure you are wearing the correct clothing for the occasion. Close-toed shoes, black pants, and black shirts are required for any crew member who might be visible to the audience. A full dress code for these events can be found here Student Handbook.

Be Prepared. Always come ready to work.You should always bring your script to rehearsal. Additionally, you should have with you: a pencil, a bottle of water, extra paper (just in case), a highlighter, 

Be Respectful. We know you are having fun being in a show with so many classmates! Please remember that talking during rehearsals is distracting and unprofessional. Stay quiet, and listen to instructions. NEVER talk when the director is talking. If you have questions, raise your hand or approach your Stage Manager on a break. If you are currently not being used in a scene, bring something quiet you can do like reading a book or doing your homework. Rehearsal is NEVER a time to be playing on your phone!

Your Stage Manager Is The Boss! If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your Stage Manager. They will be able to answer your questions or assist you. Talk to your Stage Manager before you approach your director.

No Food Beyond the Green Room: Eating should be restricted to the green room or outside. While in production attire (costume or stage blacks), use an oversized shirt to protect your attire when snacking. Remember, food and costumes are not a good combination.  Be sure to wash hands after eating before touching any costumes, props, or other items backstage...

Maintain Cleanliness: Dispose of trash generated, especially from green room snacks. Refrain from leaving half-full water bottles in any area. Make sure to label your water bottle and recycle it as needed. Costumes designed explicitly for you require your care. Hang them on the designated rack post-performance. Never take show attire home!

Prompt Response to Calls: Pay heed to time warnings from stage managers for dress rehearsals or performances. Acknowledge their calls – for instance, reply with "Thank you, Five," on a five-minute warning.

Observe Quiet and Space Boundaries: Remember, backstage noises can reach the audience. Avoid cell phone use in the backstage or wings area. Stay quiet in the wings or backstage during tech or performances. Stay updated with the monitors not to miss any cues. If you're not due on stage, respect those who are by keeping the travel corridors and costume change areas clear.

Respect Props, Costumes, & Set Pieces: Never touch or play with any off-stage prop unless assigned. Do not modify costumes. Avoid leaning or climbing on set pieces; always be mindful of moving props and set pieces.

On and Off-Stage Awareness: Look at sight lines off-stage. Refrain from seeking attention or waving from the stage. When off-stage, maintain invisibility. Once the house opens, all crew should vacate the stage.

Note-Taking Etiquette: Accept notes from the director or stage manager graciously. Jot them down to avoid forgetting, and refrain from arguing. Offering unsolicited notes to actors is inappropriate. Share any serious concerns about a performer with the stage manager.

Meeting Friends and Family: Stay backstage once signed in. Refrain from visiting the theater front to meet family and friends or purchase snacks. Post-show, meet your friends and family only after completing end-of-show duties and changing out of costume (if assigned).