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Theatre Knights is a premier young people's theatre company located at 9 Notre Dame Avenue, and Troupe #5559 of the International Thespian Society. It is comprised of young people between the ages of 13 and 19 from the surrounding communities. Our purpose is to offer an equal opportunity to our theatre students for involvement in theatre, while providing our surrounding communities with top, professional quality productions. Through a challenging and rewarding drama program, we offer our students, their families, and our staff an on-going learning experience in all aspects of theatre production.
Any student currently enrolled in the city of Manchester, public or private, or from a Manchester tuition community, grades 8 through 12 can become a member of Theatre Knights and participate in its productions and activities. Our company operates like a professional regional company would, and is run by its students. There are many areas of participation, including business and stage management, designing and building sets, costumes, props, lights, make-up, publicity and advertising, and of course, acting. Our production company is supported by the only full-time theatre curriculum in Manchester, which is also one of only a handful in the State. Those who perform on stage are selected through a competitive audition process. Not everyone who auditions gets to be on stage, but anyone can be involved in the company if they wish to be.
Theatre Knights operates under the following Constitution and set of by laws, first ratified in May 1995. It is reviewed by the Executive Board of Theatre Knights and amended, if deemed necessary, annually.
CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS FOR Theatre Knights, Inc.
This Constitution and its bylaws replaces and voids any preexisting Constitutions, by-laws, documents and amendments previously written and on file for Theatre Knights.
ARTICLE I: NAME.
The name of this organization shall be THEATRE KNIGHTS, INC. Hereafter referred to as Theatre Knights or the company.
ARTICLE II: PURPOSE.
The purpose of Theatre Knights shall be to take theatre seriously, encourage the same attitude toward theatre in its members and to provide an opportunity for all students at Manchester High School West to participate in and learn about all aspects of theater and theater production.
ARTICLE III: MEMBERSHIP.
Any individual (regardless of race, religion, sex, or national origin) who is in accord with the general purposes of this company, and who is currently either a student or staff member at Manchester High School West, or the parent or guardian of a student currently attending Manchester High School West is eligible for membership in Theatre Knights. No member of the Theatre Knights may act as a spokesman or representative of the company unless designated to do so by this Constitution and Bylaws or the Executive Board.
ARTICLE IV: MEMBERSHIP DUES.
No member of Theatre Knights may claim active status in the company unless dues have been paid for the current academic year. Membership dues shall henceforth be $10.00 for each individual per academic school year. Membership dues shall not be prorated or refundable. Membership dues must be paid to the Faculty Advisor, the Treasurer or designee within two school weeks of becoming involved with a Theatre Knights production.
ARTICLE V: EXECUTIVE BOARD.
The Executive Board of Theatre Knights shall consist of the following: President, Business Manager, Secretary, Treasurer, Publicity Manager (all students), and no less than one Faculty Advisor. No member of the Executive Board is excluded from any aspect of a Theatre Knights production, provided such involvement does not conflict with or hinder the duties of that position. All members of the Executive Board must be on active status in the company. All student members of the Executive Board must maintain a “C” or better average in all classes while in office. With the exception of the Faculty Advisor, all positions on the Executive Board shall be elected by the active membership of the company at the end of the academic school year and serve a one year term during the next consecutive academic school year. There is no restriction on the number of terms an elected Executive Board member may serve. Should a position on the Executive Board become vacant during the academic school year, the President and the Faculty Advisor are empowered to appoint a replacement for that position for the duration of that term of office. Said appointment must be approved by a 2/3’s majority of the Executive Board at the next scheduled Executive Board meeting.
ARTICLE VI: DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE EXECUTIVE BOARD.
The duties and responsibilities of individual positions on the Executive Board are as follows:
PRESIDENT: The President shall keep knowledgeable of all committee activities and production business and report to the Faculty Advisor in a regular and timely manner regarding the company’s status. Insure each member of the Executive Board receives a copy of the job descriptions at the beginning of the school year. The President will work in conjunction with the Faculty Advisor and production Producer to insure all aspects of company productions are running smoothly and have the authority to take control in any area should the need arise. The President shall assist in the appointment of all Standing Committee chairpersons and members as prescribed by this Constitution and Bylaws and such others as needed. The President shall preside over any meetings that might be called of the Executive Board and the General Membership. The President may not cast a vote either in Executive or General Meetings unless it is to break a tie. The President shall ensure elections are held in a fair and timely manner for the Executive Board of the following academic school year. The President will attend all production team meetings. The President may act as spokesperson and representative of the company.
BUSINESS MANAGER: The Business Manager shall be in charge of all fund raising and program advertising activities for Theatre Knights and coordinate with the production Producer and Faculty Advisor on the budget and business aspects of company productions. The Business Manager is responsible for raising all funds used to mount company productions during the regular season. The Business Manager shall keep knowledgeable of all cash flow activities of the company and report to the President and Faculty Advisor in a regular and timely manner regarding financial status. In the absence of the President, the Business Manager will temporarily fulfill those duties and obligations as outlined in the Constitution and By-Laws of this organization for the President. The Business Manager will attend all production team meetings. The Business Manager may act as spokesperson and representative of the company in such business as is appropriate to the duties and responsibilities of the Business Manager.
SECRETARY: The Secretary shall insure all appropriate active members of the company are notified in a timely manner of any meetings called for the Executive Board or the General Membership and record the minutes of those meetings. The Secretary shall insure the active membership of Theatre Knights is notified in a timely manner regarding all company business, such as auditions, elections, and productions. The Secretary will maintain a current list of active members of Theatre Knights. The Secretary will insure a cast and crew list for each production is included in the minutes of the appropriate Executive Board and General Membership meetings, and provide the production Producer with a copy of all appropriate production team job descriptions. The Secretary will maintain the minutes of meetings in an appropriate notebook or file: said notebook or file to be kept current and up-to-date and stored in a location determined by the Secretary and the Faculty Advisor. The Secretary may act as spokesperson and representative of the company in such business as is appropriate to the duties and responsibilities of the Secretary.
TREASURER: The Treasurer is responsible for collecting membership dues and providing an updated active membership list to the Secretary in a regular and timely manner. The Treasurer assists and reports to the Business Manager in all matters pertaining to the financial activities and status of the company. The Treasurer shall keep and maintain an accurate and up-to-date record of all financial activities of the company in an appropriate notebook or file. Said notebook or file is to be kept in a location agreed upon by the Treasurer and the Faculty Advisor. The Treasurer will attend all production team meetings. The Treasurer may act as spokesperson and representative of the company in such business as is appropriate to the duties and responsibilities of the Treasurer.
PUBLICITY MANAGER: Insure sufficient publicity for each Theatre Knights production is being done. Publicity to include, but not limited to, posters, flyers, newspaper and radio releases, photo opportunities, marquis banners, morning announcements, etc. Clear all logos, slogans, designs, and releases with company Faculty Advisor prior to issue. Report any deficiencies, needs, or problems to the company President as soon as possible. The Publicity Manager is responsible for coordinating any publicity or photo opportunities between Theatre Knights and other organizations at Manchester High School West. The Publicity Manager will compile and keep an up-to-date listing of all necessary and appropriate contacts as they pertain to the publicity of the company. The Publicity Manager will attend all production team meetings when requested to do so. The Publicity Manager may act as spokesperson and representative of the company in such business as is appropriate to the duties and responsibilities of publicity.
ARTICLE VII: ELECTIONS.
Any active student member of the company is eligible to become a member of the Executive Board. Notification of those interested, along with the position of interest must be made in writing to the Faculty Advisor by the third week in May. A general membership meeting will be called on the first Wednesday after the Spring production for the purpose of announcing elections for the following year’s Executive Board. The election will be held the following Wednesday. Only active members of Theatre Knights will be permitted to vote. Those unable to attend the election meeting may see the Faculty Advisor on the day of election to cast an absent-T ballot. Ballots will be counted by any senior members of the out-going Executive Board under the supervision of the Faculty Advisor. The newly elected Board will officially take office, and the old Board will step down at the close of the election meeting
ARTICLE VIII: MEETINGS.
There shall be only two mandatory meetings of the general membership of Theatre Knights: an introductory meeting at the beginning of the school year to introduce the Executive Board, invite anyone interested in the company to attend, and to announce the season; and an end-of-the-year meeting to elect the next year’s Executive Board, to bring the active membership up to date on the status of the company, and to announce and present company awards and outstanding achievements. Any other meetings of the general membership will be called on an as-need basis.
Meetings of the Executive Board should be held monthly throughout the school year. The Executive Board will also meet as soon after the completion of a company production as is practical to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of that production.
Robert’s Rules of Order shall be observed at all official meetings.
ARTICLE IX: STANDING COMMITTEES:
The normal and efficient operation of the company shall include the following committees to be in operation throughout the academic year: Properties, Costumes, and Historian. The heads of these standing committees must be active student members of the company. The duties and responsibilities of these committees shall be as follows:
PROPERTIES: Maintain the hand prop room in a neat and orderly fashion and assist in the maintenance of the Dungeon. Maintain and update prop inventory. Assist each production prop person in providing necessary props for that production. Insure all props are returned to the prop room in the same condition as they left. Report any deficiencies, needs, or problems to the company President as soon as possible.
COSTUMES: Maintain the costume room in a neat and orderly fashion and assist in the maintenance of the Dungeon. Maintain and update costume inventory. Assist each production costume person in providing necessary costumes for that production. Insure all costume materials are returned to the costume room in the same condition in which they left. Report any deficiencies, needs, or problems to the company President as soon as possible.
HISTORIAN: The Historian will keep and maintain a photographic record of all major Theatre Knights activities and productions. The Historian will take pictures whenever required by the President or the Faculty Advisor and ensure at least one program, poster, and pair of tickets from each production is preserved in a company scrap book or file along with a representative set of photographs from that production.
The Executive Board may require any additional committees as may be necessary to the smooth and efficient operation of the company. Such additional committees will exist for as long as is deemed necessary by the Executive Board.
ARTICLE X: PRODUCTION STAFF.
Each production of the Theatre Knights shall include the following Production Team personnel: Producer, Director, Stage Manager, Technical Director, Musical Director (when the production is a musical), and Choreographer (when needed), Lighting Designer, Set Designer, Scenic Designer, Master Builder, Props, Costumes, and Makeup. Each position may be filled by more than one person, and each position may have an assistant. With the exception of Director, all positions may be filled by a student, unless the production is designated as a Theatre Knights student production, in which case the Director may then also be a student. The duties and responsibilities of each of these positions are as follows:
PRODUCER (KPT): Coordinate with Director and Business Manager and set appropriate deadlines and budgets and insure all Key Production Team (KPT) positions are filled. Provide each department head with a copy of that position’s job description. Work with appropriate production team personnel to formulate production budget and report to Business Manager and Faculty Advisor. Keep an accurate account of all monies spent on the production in each area of production and insure budget limitations are met. Inform Director and Business Manager immediately if any portion of the budget is exceeded, or in danger of being exceeded. Assist as needed and attend the production’s auditions. Obtain the cast list from the Director and insure a copy is given to Secretary. Keep and maintain a listing of all production team personnel and provide copies to Director, Technical Director, and Stage Manager, as well as Secretary. Insure production programs and tickets are ready for the production. Coordinate with Director and Technical Director to set goals and deadlines for each department. Attend rehearsals at least once a week during rehearsal schedule, attend every rehearsal during Tech Week. Organize and attend meetings of the production team on a regular basis (biweekly minimum) during the mounting of the production. Coordinate with Director, Stage Manager, and Technical Director to determine what departments need attend appropriate production meetings. Attend all Executive Board meetings held during production, including the first meeting after the production. Coordinate the organization and running of production strike with Stage Manager, Director, and Technical Director. The Producer may not perform in the production he/she is producing unless approval is obtained from the Faculty Advisor. Maintain open communications with all departments and report any needs, problems, or deficiencies to Director and Business Manager as soon as possible.
DIRECTOR (KPT): Responsible for all artistic interpretation of the production. Responsible for choosing the play to be performed and for conducting auditions and casting it. Coordinate with Producer to insure all script materials are ordered and in time for auditions, as well as returning script materials when appropriate. Responsible for scheduling and conducting rehearsals. Responsible for all staging, blocking, and technical cues for the production. The Director has final say and approval of all aspects of the production. The Director may not perform in the production he/she is directing. Coordinate with Producer, Stage Manager, and Technical Director the organization and running of production strike. If a student Director in a student production, all the above must be with the concurrence of the Faculty Advisor, and the student Director must report immediately any needs, problems, or deficiencies to the company Faculty Advisor.
STAGE MANAGER (KPT): The Stage Manager reports directly to the Director and may not be a performer in the same production without permission from the Faculty Advisor and the Director. Attend auditions and assist Director as necessary. Attend all rehearsals and performances. Keep and maintain the production prompt book. Record all blocking and technical cues in the prompt book. Follow in script and give cues when necessary during the rehearsal process. Insure all necessary props, furnishings, etc. are set up and returned to storage prior to and at the end of each rehearsal and performance. Determine what personnel will be needed backstage for production and insure all are instructed in their appropriate duties and are present during all technical rehearsals and performances. Insure any backstage personnel are replaced during tech week and performances should an emergency arise. Be familiar with preset checklists and all the duties of all backstage personnel. Conduct an independent checklist for all props, costumes, stage set-ups, and lighting cues prior to each act, and insure all production teams store all appropriate materials upon completion of each rehearsal and performance. Conduct the start and completion of all tech rehearsals in coordination with the Director and Technical Director. The Stage Manager is in charge of the entire production during tech week and each performance with the concurrence of the Faculty Advisor. When headphones are being used, the Stage Manager will insure they are manned during the entire performance and tech rehearsal, including during intermissions. Coordinate with House Manager during performances for the start of each performance and act after intermission, and conduct the running of each performance. Coordinate with Producer, Director, and Technical Director in the organization and running of production strike after the last performance.
TECHNICAL DIRECTOR (KPT): The Technical Director is responsible for all technical aspects of the production with concurrence of the Director. Attend all production team meetings and coordinate with Director and Stage Manager to determine technical and personnel needs for the production. Coordinate with Producer and Director to set deadlines and budget requirements, and the filling of production department positions. Organize and run all set construction work parties. Pass on any requests and receipts of production departments to Director and Producer. Insure department deadlines are met and report any problems immediately to Director and Producer. Attend all rehearsals during tech week to insure all technical aspects of the production. Coordinate with the Producer, Director, and Stage Manager to organize and run production strike. The Technical Director may be a performer in the production if permission is obtained from the Faculty Advisor.
MUSICAL DIRECTOR & CHOREOGRAPHER (KPT): These are key production team personnel if the production is a musical. These members of the team will attend and conduct the music and dance portions of all auditions and assist the Director in casting the production. Each member is responsible for setting up and running the appropriate rehearsal schedule in coordination with the Director and Stage Manager. Both positions report directly to the Director and will attend all production team meetings.
SET, LIGHT, AND SOUND DESIGN: Responsible for design, set-up, construction, and completion of areas and tasks within appropriate venues in concurrence with the Director and Technical Director. Attend production meetings when requested to do so. Provide Director and Technical Director with all appropriate drawings, specifications, and/or notes concerning any designs and plans for the production within established deadlines. Attend work parties when requested to do so. Attend all rehearsals during tech week to assist as necessary .
COSTUME COORDINATOR: Responsible for all costuming considerations and requirements of production, including: all rentals, loans, and manufacturing of costumes, as well as all head wear, foot wear, stockings, belts, suspenders, etc.. Confer with Director and Technical Director to determine costume requirements, deadlines, and budget limitations. Attend production meetings and rehearsals when requested to do so. Submit any and all drawings, designs, specifications, and notes concerning costuming to Technical Director and Director within established deadlines. Measure, record readings, and fit all those requiring costuming in the production. Inform Technical Director and Stage Manager if additional personnel, such as stitchers and dressers, are needed, and coordinate with them to fill these positions. Responsible for acquiring any and all costume materials needed for production. Submit any and all bills and receipts to Technical Director. Responsible for any and all repairs of costumes during rehearsals and performances. Responsible for setting up any and all backstage dressing areas required for the production with the concurrence of the Stage Manager. Inform cast as to the care and responsibility of their costumes and costume materials. Attend all rehearsals during tech week. Attend production strike and assist as necessary to insure all costuming materials and dressing areas are put away, clean and orderly. Insure all costumes and costuming materials are cleaned, and any rented or on loan are returned in a timely manner.
PROPERTY COORDINATOR: Responsible for acquiring all props and small set furnishings and dressings for the production. Confer with Director, Technical Director and Stage Manager to determine all prop and dressing requirements, and budget limitations and deadlines. Submit all bills and receipts to the Technical Director as soon as possible. Attend production meetings and rehearsals when requested to do so. Inform Technical Director and Stage Manager if additional prop personnel are needed, and coordinate with them to fill these positions. Establish and maintain a property preset checklist and provide a copy to the Stage Manager. Set up any and all prop tables/areas backstage as needed with concurrence of the Stage Manager. Oversee all prop and dressing activities during the run of the production. Attend all rehearsals during tech week and all performances. Coordinate all preset and strike activities with regard to props with concurrence with the Stage Manager. Responsible for insuring all props and dressing materials rented or on loan are returned in a timely manner.
MAKE-UP COORDINATOR: Confer with the Director, Technical Director (and musical Director and choreographer in a musical) to determine any special requirements for the production (including hair pieces, crepe hair, wigs, special make-up, etc.). Attend production meetings and rehearsals when requested to do so. Responsible for inventorying all make-up materials and informing Technical Director and Director of status and any needs within deadlines. Submit any bills and receipts to Technical Director as soon as possible. Responsible for obtaining any and all make-up materials needed for the production. Coordinate with the Technical Director and Stage Manager if additional make-up personnel are needed. Set-up and maintain any make-up areas backstage in concurrence with the Stage Manager. Responsible for insuring all make-up areas and materials are cleaned up and put away when not in use. Provide a final inventory of make-up supplies during production strike to the Producer.
Additional Production Team members are determined by the Producer, Director, and Technical Director, with the concurrence of the Faculty Advisor on as as-needed basis.
ARTICLE XI: CASTING.
Casting of any Theatre Knight production is the prerogative of the Director of that production and is open to any student at Manchester High School West who is passing all academic courses at the time of auditions. Any student who becomes a cast member of a Theatre Knight production must become an active member of the company within two school weeks of being cast or risk being dropped from the production. All cast members in a Theatre Knight production must maintain a passing average in all academic courses during the run of the production.
ARTICLE XII: ANNUAL AUDIT.
The Executive Board shall submit a copy of the Financial records to the school Treasurer by the first week in June at the end of every academic school year, or when requested to do so.
ARTICLE XIII: AMENDMENTS.
Amendments to these bylaws, as well as the creation and incorporation of new bylaws can be made by a two-thirds vote of the Executive Board and the concurrence of the Faculty Advisor.
BYLAWS
AMENDMENT I: Change of job title and description of Treasurer
In accordance with the policies of Manchester High School West which state that students may not deal with the school treasurer when handling sums of money, the Executive Board position of Treasurer will henceforth be called the Company Agent. All previous references to “Treasurer” in this constitution should now be read as “Company Agent.” In accordance with this change of title, the job description of the Company Agent shall be as follows:
The Company Agent is in charge of collecting dues from Theatre Knights’ members, and insuring those involved in a company production have paid the appropriate dues in a timely manner. The Company Agent will provide the Secretary and the Faculty Advisor with up to date membership lists in a timely manner. The Company Agent will provide up to date membership lists to any Production Team personnel who may require them during the course of a production. The Company Agent shall also be responsible for compiling and distributing lists of members according to areas of interest to the Production Producer and Department Heads during production. The Company Agent will assist Department Heads in contacting and obtaining adequate crew for the production departments if necessary. The Company Agent may act as a spokesperson and representative of the company in such business as is appropriate to the duties and responsibilities of the Company Agent.
The keeping of all financial records and activities of the company shall be the responsibility of the Faculty Advisor. For this purpose an appropriate record will be kept of all company financial activities and the President made aware of its location. The Faculty Advisor will present a financial report at each Executive Board meeting.
AMENDMENT II: INTERNATIONAL THESPIAN SOCIETY MEMBERSHIP
As of June 27, 1996 , Theatre Knights shall henceforth be recognized as Troupe #5559 of the International Thespian Society, a component of the Educational Theatre Association. The Faculty Advisor is the official Sponsor responsible for all annual duties of a Thespian Sponsor as outlined in section I of the Thespian Troupe Sponsor’s Handbook issued by the Educational Theatre Association. The following adjustments to Theatre Knights’ constitution, general membership and Executive Board position duties shall be as follows:
Thespian membership in Troupe #5559.
All nominees for Thespian membership must meet all requirements outlined for active members of Theatre Knights in Articles 3 and 4 of this constitution.
All nominees for Thespian membership must also have earned a minimum of ten (10) points; approximately 100 hours of service in the areas of Business or Production, or a combination of Acting and Business or Production. No nominee may become a Thespian member for only earning hours in the area of Acting alone.
Thespian Point System: Areas of service and scale of points awarded are at the discretion of the Troupe Sponsor in accordance with the point table outlined in section 3 of the Thespian Troupe Sponsor’s Handbook. Said table of points and areas of service shall serve as a guideline only with points awarded not to exceed the maximums listed in each area.
Thespian members may lose Thespian status for any of the following:
Failure of more than two academic subjects in a single semester.
Not participating in a Theatre Knights production or project within the school year.
Participating in any behavior or activity resulting in external suspension from school by Manchester High School West administration of more than three days, or expulsion by the Manchester School Board.
Final authority concerning thespian membership requirements and acceptance shall be vested in the Troupe Sponsor.
Executive Board member duties and responsibilities in keeping with ITS Troupe membership.
All Executive Board positions, duties, responsibilities, and eligibilities must be in accordance with those previously outlined in Articles 5,6, and 7 of this constitution with the following exceptions/additions:
The President shall also be responsible in conjunction with the Troupe Sponsor for the initiation of new Thespian members.
The Secretary shall assist the Troupe Sponsor as needed or requested in all Troupe correspondence.
The Company Agent will keep an accurate tally of ITS points earned for each production for every member of Theatre Knights in conjunction with the Faculty Advisor. For this purpose, an index card file will be kept up-to-date and stored in a location agreed upon by the Company Agent and the Faculty Advisor.
The Publicity Manager will assist the troupe Sponsor whenever necessary in the timely and appropriate notification of ITS sponsored events and activities to the company membership.
Dues
Company membership dues will remain in accordance with article 4 of this constitution.
Troupe membership dues will be in accordance with regulations provided by the International Thespian Board of Trustees.
Inductions
Induction of new Thespian members will be held once a year at the end of the theatre season.
AMENDMENT III: Establishment of annual theatre awards
It shall be the responsibility of the President and the Faculty Advisor to establish a committee for the purpose of nominating individuals for exceptional achievement in theatre throughout the year. Nominations should include no fewer than two and no more than three individuals in each category. Categories should include, but not be limited to: BEST ACTOR, BEST ACTRESS, BEST TECHNICAL PERSON, MOST DEDICATED. All names of award nominees must be submitted to the Faculty Advisor by strike of the Spring production. Award winners will be determined by the Faculty Advisor and those consulted by the Advisor. The Awards will be announced and presented at the Annual Thespian Induction and Awards Banquet at the end of the season. In addition, the Faculty Advisor will select an individual to be the recipient of the Director’s Outstanding Achievement Award, also to be announced and presented at the Annual Awards and Induction Banquet.
AMENDMENT IV: Succession of In-Coming Executive Board
The newly elected Executive Board shall henceforth be announced at the Annual International Thespian Society Awards and Induction Banquet, at which time the out-going Executive Board shall step down and the in-coming Executive Board shall officially take office.
AMENDMENT V: Addition of the position of Historian to the Executive Board
The Historian shall henceforth be a member of the Executive Board rather than a Standing Committee position, and be subject to the same guidelines and directives as outlined in Article 5 of this constitution.
The Historian shall endeavor to maintain the tradition of the company in all Theatre Knights activities. The Historian shall keep and maintain a photographic record of all Theatre Knights productions and activities. The Historian will take pictures whenever required by the President and/or the Faculty Advisor and ensure at least one program, one poster, and one pair of tickets from each production is preserved in a company scrapbook or file; said scrapbook or file to be located in an area agreed upon by the Faculty Advisor and the Executive Board, and said scrapbook or file are not to be removed from said location without the express permission of the Faculty Advisor; along with a representative set of photographs from each production and activity. The Historian will also ensure a copy of any and all news pertaining to the company in any and all other media shall be preserved in the company scrapbook or file. The Historian will assist the Faculty Advisor as necessary with the organizing, set-up, and running of the annual ITS Induction and Awards Banquet. The Historian is responsible for keeping and maintaining a list of Theatre Knights alumni and related information, and shall make this information available to the Executive Board upon request. The Historian will coordinate with the Publicity Manager in such business as is appropriate, including, but not limited to, photo opportunities and alumni contacts as they pertain to the duties of the Historian. The Historian may act as spokesperson and representative of the company in such business as is appropriate to the duties and responsibilities of the Historian.
AMENDMENT VI: Appointment of Standing Committee Heads, and the addition of the Lighting Committee
The Executive Board shall appoint the heads of each of the standing committees outlined in Article 9 of this constitution in a timely manner at the beginning of each school year. The positions, duties, responsibilities and eligibilities of the committee heads must be in accordance with those previously outlined in Article 9 of this constitution with the following exceptions/additions:
1. Historian: The Historian shall cease to be a standing committee position of Theatre Knights, being instead a member of the Executive Board as stated in Amendment 5 of this constitution.
2. Lighting: Lighting shall henceforth be a standing committee as outlined in Article 9 of this constitution with the following duties and responsibilities: Lighting will maintain the lighting booth and the lighting and sound equipment closet in a neat and orderly fashion and maintain and update an inventory of all materials and equipment pertaining to lighting and sound. Lighting will assist as needed the production lighting and sound teams for the current productions. Lighting will coordinate with the Faculty Advisor and, if possible, the Executive Board, the use/rental of any and all lighting and/or sound equipment for activities not associated with Theatre Knights, and be present, or the appointed designee as approved by the Faculty Advisor, at all activities utilizing Theatre Knights lighting and/or sound materials and equipment.
AMENDMENT VII: Amended description of Musical Director and Choreographer
Any Musical Director and/or Choreographer, who are not affiliated with West High School , shall not be required, but encouraged, to attend production team meetings. If the Musical Director and/or Choreographer cannot attend said meetings, it is the responsibility of the Producer to provide any and all relevant information to them. It is the duty and responsibility of the Musical director and the Choreographer to insure they obtain any and all material and information pertaining to their positions from said production meetings from the Producer.
AMENDMENT VIII: Eligibility of Key Production Team Members
Any key Production Team Member may be an individual not currently affiliated with Manchester High School West at the discretion and approval of the Faculty Advisor and the Executive Board.
AMENDMENT IX: Transition Meeting Between Out-Going and In-Coming Executive Boards
The Out-Going Executive Board shall formally meet with the In-Coming Executive Board in a timely manner after Executive Board elections and before the end of the current school year to discuss each specific Executive Board position duties and responsibilities.
AMENDMENT X: Executive Board Representation at Friends of Theatre Knights Meetings
In addition to all stated duties and responsibilities of each Executive Board position as outlined in this Constitution and By-Laws, each member of the Executive Board shall be required to attend a minimum of two (2) Friends of Theatre Knights meetings during the school year. It shall be the responsibility of the Executive Board President to ensure at least one (1) Executive Board officer is in attendance at all Friends of Theatre Knights meetings with the exception of the June meeting, throughout the school year.
AMENDMENT XI: Job Descriptions, Duties and Responsibilities of the Executive Board
The job descriptions, duties and responsibilities previously outlined in this Constitution and By-Laws are henceforth replaced with the following job descriptions, duties and responsibilities:
PRESIDENT:
Attend all Executive Board and General Membership meetings.
Work with the Advisor to develop an agenda for each Executive Board and General Membership meeting.
Preside over all Executive Board and General Membership meetings using Robert’s Rules of Order of Parliamentary Procedure.
Insure each member of the Executive Board is following all duties and responsibilities as outlined in this Constitution and By-Laws.
Attend a minimum of two (2) Friends of Theatre Knights meetings during the school year.
When it is not the President’s turn to attend a Friends meeting, insure another member of the Executive Board will attend.
Keep a record of Executive Board members who attend Friends’ meetings to insure a fair assignment of this duty.
Attend all Production Team meetings.
Be familiar with the company calendar, including when and where events and activities are occurring at least a month in advance in order to properly prepare and advise appropriate members of the Executive Board, the company and Advisor as needed.
Represent the company at all outside events and functions, and with all related company business when required or asked to do so by the Advisor.
Insure all standing committee positions called for by the company constitution and by laws are filled by the October Executive Board meeting.
Insure Thank You notes and/or gifts are sent within two (2) weeks from the end of an event that included adult and/or outside volunteers to all volunteers.
Be familiar with duties and responsibilities of all members of the Executive Board.
Formally meet weekly with each member of the Executive Board to oversee and supervise each office of the Executive Board as needed to insure a timely and efficient completion of all duties and responsibilities of the Executive Board.
Formally meet with and report to the Advisor weekly on the status and operation of the Executive Board and the company, and to keep current with the company calendar.
Formally meet with current production Producer weekly to discuss and inquire into the status and progress of the current production.
It is the duty and responsibility of the President to inform the Advisor immediately of any and all inappropriate and disharmonious comments and/or behavior within the Executive Board and/or the company that is causing or could cause problems within the company.
BUSINESS MANAGER:
Attend all Executive Board and General Membership meetings.
Provide the Executive Board with a written and/or oral report of the status of any and all Business Manager activities at the beginning of each Executive Board meeting.
Be familiar with the duties and responsibilities of the Business Manager as outlined in the company constitution and by laws.
Work with the Advisor to develop an agenda and a strategy for potential efficient income sources for the company.
Form and maintain a committee of company members for the purpose of focusing on any and all money raising activities and events for the company. It is highly advisable to include one or more adults on this committee as well.
Maintain a 3-ring binder with current contact information on all businesses and contributors, fundraising activities and projects, company income and expenses, and all committee members and their duties working with the Business Manager.
Preside over all Executive Board and General Membership meetings using Robert’s Rules of Order of Parliamentary Procedure in the event of the absence of the President.
Attend a minimum of two (2) Friends of Theatre Knights meetings during the school year.
Attend all Production Team meetings.
Be familiar with the company calendar, including when and where events and activities are occurring at least a month in advance in order to properly prepare and advise appropriate members of the Executive Board, the company and Advisor as needed.
Represent the company at all outside events and functions, and with all related company business when required or asked to do so by the Advisor.
Formally meet with and report to the President and Advisor weekly on the status and operation of any and all money raising activities and expenses of the company, and to keep current with the company calendar.
Formally meet with current production Producer weekly to discuss and inquire into the status and progress of the current production.
It is the duty and responsibility of the Business Manager to inform the Advisor immediately of any and all inappropriate and disharmonious comments and/or behavior within the Executive Board and/or the company that is causing or could cause problems within the company.
Provide a report of the financial status and activities of the Company to the Executive Board and the General Membership within a timely manner after the close of the last Theatre Knights production of the season.
SECRETARY:
Attend all Executive Board and General Membership meetings.
Be familiar with the duties and responsibilities of the Secretary as outlined in the company constitution and by laws.
Accurately record the minutes of all Executive Board and General Membership meetings.
Maintain a 3-ring binder with all old and current meeting minutes, and any and all correspondences sent and received by the company, and a current copy of the company constitution and by laws.
Provide each member of the Executive Board and the Advisor with a copy of the minutes from the previous Executive Board meeting at the beginning of every Executive Board meeting.
Read the minutes of the most recent meeting as appropriate when asked to do so by presiding officer of the Executive Board and General Membership meeting.
Notify all active members of the company of all general meetings, auditions, and company events other than performances in a timely manner (no less than the Monday before the scheduled meeting or event, unless directed otherwise by the Advisor or President.)
Attend a minimum of two (2) Friends of Theatre Knights meetings during the school year.
Be familiar with the company calendar, including when and where events and activities are occurring at least a month in advance in order to properly prepare and advise appropriate members of the Executive Board, the company and Advisor as needed.
Represent the company at all outside events and functions, and with all related company business when required or asked to do so by the Advisor.
Formally meet with and report to the President and Advisor weekly on the status and operation of any and all company correspondences, and to keep current with the company calendar.
It is the duty and responsibility of the Secretary to inform the Advisor immediately of any and all inappropriate and disharmonious comments and/or behavior within the Executive Board and/or the company that is causing or could cause problems within the company.
COMPANY AGENT:
Attend all Executive Board and General Membership meetings.
Be familiar with the duties and responsibilities of the Company Agent as outlined in the company constitution and by laws.
Maintain a 3-ring binder with all old and current membership lists, including current ITS point totals, active status of all listed company members.
Actively and aggressively pursue company dues from all company members on a weekly basis (at least 2 days a week must be dedicated to this task, unless directed otherwise by the Advisor or the President).
Create, update and maintain the company membership list in the computer weekly.
Provide a current and up-to-date membership list to the Executive Board, the production Producer, the Advisor, and all key production department heads as needed.
Provide an updated copy of the current Theatre Knights Membership list to each member of the Executive Board and the Advisor at the beginning of each Executive Board meeting.
Provide a written and/or oral report on the status and numbers of the General Membership of the company at the beginning of each Executive Board meeting.
Attend a minimum of two (2) Friends of Theatre Knights meetings during the school year.
Be familiar with the company calendar, including when and where events and activities are occurring at least a month in advance in order to properly prepare and advise appropriate members of the Executive Board, the company and Advisor as needed.
Represent the company at all outside events and functions, and with all related company business when required or asked to do so by the Advisor.
Formally meet with and report to the President and Advisor weekly on the status of company membership, and to keep current with the company calendar.
Assist the Advisor in the recording of ITS points following each production event of the company, and insure current ITS point totals are posted in a timely manner.
It is the duty and responsibility of the Company Agent to inform the Advisor immediately of any and all inappropriate and disharmonious comments and/or behavior within the Executive Board and/or the company that is causing or could cause problems within the company.
PUBLICITY MANAGER:
Attend all Executive Board and General Membership meetings.
Be familiar with the duties and responsibilities of the Publicity Manager as outlined in the company constitution and by laws.
Maintain a 3-ring binder with all old and current publicity releases, a current list of publicity sources including contact individual, address, phone number and fax number, along with deadline requirements.
Formally maintain contact and communication with the adult member of Friends of Theatre Knights in charge of company publicity.
Present a written and/or oral report on the status of all publicity activities of the company at the beginning of each Executive Board meeting.
Be familiar with the company calendar, including when and where events and activities are occurring at least a month in advance in order to properly prepare and advise appropriate members of the Executive Board, the company and Advisor as needed.
Represent the company at all outside events and functions, and with all related company business when required or asked to do so by the Advisor.
Formally meet with and report to the President and Advisor weekly on the status of company and production publicity, and to keep current with the company calendar.
Insure all articles and press releases are written and delivered by appropriate deadlines.
Make every effort to insure all publicity on productions appears in newspapers during the week before the opening performance, and during the entire week of performances on the radio and television.
Insure publicity for productions and ticket sales for productions is made in a timely and consistent manner on WestView.
Insure a sufficient number of posters, as determined by the Advisor, are posted throughout the school no less than 2 Mondays before opening performance.
Insure a sufficient number of posters, as determined by the Advisor, are distributed and posted throughout the community no less than 2 Mondays before the opening performance.
Obtain a sufficient number of complimentary tickets from the production Producer or the Advisor to mail to surrounding schools, and significant donors and VIP’s (see Advisor for significant donors and VIP’s) and send with a publicity letter inviting them to the production no less than 2 weeks before the opening performance.
It is the duty and responsibility of the Publicity Manager to inform the Advisor immediately of any and all inappropriate and disharmonious comments and/or behavior within the Executive Board and/or the company that is causing or could cause problems within the company.
HISTORIAN:
Attend all Executive Board and General Membership meetings.
Be familiar with the duties and responsibilities of the Historian as outlined in the company constitution and by laws.
Maintain and update the company scrapbooks.
Clean the display cases and display area in the lobby outside the auditorium weekly.
Peruse all community and school publications for any and all articles and or pictures of company events and activities, and clip for inclusion in the company scrapbook.
Present a written and/or oral report on the status of all Historian activities and duties at the beginning of each Executive Board meeting.
Attend all company events and activities and take a photographic record of each event and activity.
Insure at least 1 program and 1 ticket for each night of performance are saved for inclusion in the company scrapbook.
Put together a photo display of each current production for the "Currently Presenting" display case in the lobby by the last Monday before the opening performance.
Keep "Currently Presenting" display case updated as needed as company events and activities occur throughout the year.
Attend a minimum of two (2) Friends of Theatre Knights meetings during the school year.
Be familiar with the company calendar, including when and where events and activities are occurring at least a month in advance in order to properly prepare and advise appropriate members of the Executive Board, the company and Advisor as needed.
Represent the company at all outside events and functions, and with all related company business when required or asked to do so by the Advisor.
Formally meet with and report to the President and Advisor weekly on the status of company events and activities, and to keep current with the company calendar.
It is the duty and responsibility of the Historian to inform the Advisor immediately of any and all inappropriate and disharmonious comments and/or behavior within the Executive Board and/or the company that is causing or could cause problems within the company.
Provide Advisor, West Yearbook Staff, and personnel putting together the End-of-the-Year Slide Show for Banquet with digital copies (either email or disc) of all pictures taken during the season.
AMENDMENT XII: Fulfilling of the Duties and Responsibilities of an Executive Board Office
Any Executive Board officer who does not adequately fulfill the duties and responsibilities of his or her office as outlined in this Constitution and By-Laws as determined by the Advisor and a majority of the remaining Executive Board officers shall not be eligible to run for an Executive Board office for the next school year.
AMENDMENT XIII: Executive Board Involvement in Company Productions
Each member of the Executive Board is required to participate in each main stage production in some capacity during his or her term of office.
AMENDMENT XIV: Theatre Knights WEB Site
It shall be the responsibility of the Advisor or his/her designee to maintain and up-keep the Theatre Knights WEB site.
AMENDMENT XV: Video Advertisement for Main Stage Productions
Promotional Video Advertisements for all Theatre Knights main stage productions shall be completed in a timely manner prior to the production by any individual or individuals deemed competent and capable by the Executive Board to do so.
AMENDMENT XVI: Executive Board Involvement in Friends of Theatre Knights Meetings
It shall be the responsibility of the Executive Board President to insure at least two (2) Executive Board officers are in attendance at all Friends of Theatre Knights meetings with the exception of the June meeting, throughout the school year.
AMENDMENT XVII: Eligibility for the offices of President and Business Manager
In addition to eligibility requirements as stated previously in this Constitution and its by-laws, any student who wishes to run for the office of President or Business Manager of the Theatre Knights' Executive Board must be a senior or must have previously served at least one (1) year on the Theatre Knights' Executive Board.
AMENDMENT XVIII: Posting of the Theatre Knights Constitution and its by-laws
A copy of the Theatre Knights Constitution and its by-laws shall be posted in a conspicuous place where any and all members of the company may have access to it.
AMENDMENT XIX: Consolidation and definition of Specific Standing Committees
The PROPERTY and COSTUME Committees previously referred to in Article IX of this Constitution and its By-Laws shall henceforth be included in the duties and responsibilities of the “DUNGEON COMMITTEE,” which shall be responsible for the areas of the set and property storage areas in the Dungeon, and the Costume storage room and areas in the Dungeon, and insure the proper maintenance, operation and cleanliness of said areas, and shall be staffed by a minimum of two people. A “MAKEUP COMMITTEE” shall be established, which shall be responsible for all makeup inventory and supplies, makeup materials, including wigs and hair accessories and equipment, and all storage areas and facilities, including cleanliness and orderly maintenance of said makeup and storage areas, and shall be staffed by a minimum of one person. The LIGHTING Committee referred to in Amendment VI of this Constitution and its By-Laws shall be redefined to henceforth include the area of sound and be known as the “LIGHTING AND SOUND COMMITTEE,” which shall be responsible for the upkeep, maintenance and cleanliness of all lighting and sound equipment; in addition this committee shall be responsible to insure lighting and sound equipment is properly prepared and installed as required at the beginning of each school year, and struck and stowed properly at the end of the school year; this committee shall be staffed by a minimum of one person, who shall also be responsible for the staffing of all assemblies, concerts and events taking place in the Auditorium that require augmentation of lighting or sound. Staffing of these events shall be from a pool of qualified operators as determined by the Advisor.
AMENDMENT XX: Executive Board Elections
Requirements for notification of intent to run for a Theatre Knight Executive Board office and meetings dealing with Theatre Knight Executive Board elections shall be as follows and henceforth replace any previous directions or specifications previously stated in this Constitution and its By-Laws; notification of those interested, along with the position of interest and the prospective candidate’s student ID number, must be made in writing to the Advisor by the deadline for such set forth by the Advisor prior to Theatre Knights Executive Board elections for the next school year. A general membership meeting for the purpose of announcing and discussing running for Theatre Knights Executive Board office for the next school year shall be held after the Theatre Knights’ Spring production and prior to the actual elections. Elections for Theatre Knights Executive Board offices for the next school year will be held one to three weeks after the aforementioned general membership meeting, but prior to the ITS Awards and Induction Banquet.
AMENDMENT XXI: Advisor Discretionary Awards
Awards presented by the Faculty Advisor at the ITS Awards and Induction Banquet shall henceforth include, but not be limited to: THESPIAN OF THE YEAR, SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD, DIRECTOR’S OUTSTANDING ACHIEVMENT AWARD, THEATRE SCHOLARSHIP, and HONOR THESPIAN AWARD. The Faculty Advisor will have discretionary authority to omit any of the aforementioned awards should he or she determine any particular award for that theatre season is not appropriate; in addition the Faculty Advisor may add an award if he or she deems one is warranted. This amendment supercedes any previous definitions and requirements pertaining to awards presented by the Faculty Advisor in this Constitution and its By-Laws.
AMENDMENT XXII: Duties and Responsibilities of the President-Executive Board Status Calendar
In addition to the duties and responsibilities previously presented and stated in this Constitution and its By-Laws, the President shall also be responsible for insuring an Executive Board Duties and Responsibilities Status Calendar, which highlights all the duties and responsibilities of each member of the Executive Board pertaining to times dates and deadlines, is made and posted in a conspicuous place so as to be utilized by all members of the Executive Board and the Faculty Advisor.
AMENDMENT XXIII: Duties and Responsibilities of the Secretary-Publication of Minutes
In addition to the duties and responsibilities previously presented and stated in this Constitution and its By-Laws, the Secretary shall insure a printed hard copy of the Executive Board meeting minutes, and any general membership meeting minutes, are presented to the President and the Faculty Advisor within one week from when that particular meeting was adjourned. The Secretary shall also insure a printed hard copy of the aforementioned minutes shall be presented to all remaining members of the Executive Board within three days prior to the next Executive Board meeting.
AMENDMENT XXIV: Duties and Responsibilities of the Executive Board- Status Calendar
In addition to the duties and responsibilities previously presented and stated in this Constitution and its By-Laws, each member of the Executive Board shall be responsible for checking the Executive Board Status Calendar on a daily basis and insuring he or she is meeting all times, dates and deadlines with regard to all duties and responsibilities pertaining to his or her office, and so noting in the appropriate locations on the calendar as required.
AMENDMENT XXV: Duties and Responsibilities of the Publicity Manager-Publicity Flyers
In addition to the duties and responsibilities previously presented and stated in this Constitution and its By-Laws, the Publicity Manager shall also insure a publicity flyer mailing goes out in a timely manner prior to all major Theatre Knights productions, and any Theatre Knights projects or events deemed to warrant such publicity by the Executive Board.
AMENDMENT XXVI: Eligibility to run for Executive Board Office
All candidates running for a position on the Executive Board must meet all the requirements and prerequisites for the office being sought as outlined in this Constitution and its By-Laws.
AMENDMENT XXVII: Membership Dues
The annual dues for being considered an active member of Theatre Knights will be $15 per school year.
AMENDMENT XXVIII: Additional Duties of the Historian
In addition to the other duties and responsibilities for the Historian as outlined in this Constitution and its By-Laws, the Historian shall also provide digital copies of all pictures and/or videos of all events in a timely manner after each event to the Advisor or website designee, the West Year Book staff, and the person responsible for creating or putting together the End-Of-The-Year slide show for the ITS Banquet. All pictures and/or videos must be properly labeled according to the specific event. Digital copies of all pictures and/or videos may be electronic or on disc. It is the responsibility of the Historian to learn of any deadlines associated with printing or publishing concerns, i.e., the West Year Book and to keep the Theatre Knights Executive Board apprized of such deadlines and the status of delivery of applicable pictures and/or videos to the appropriate people.
AMENDMENT XXIX: Casting Eligibility
In addition to what is already outlined in this Constitution and its By-Laws regarding who is eligible to be cast in a Theatre Knights’ production, anyone who is defined as a member of any organization in its charter at the time that that organization is working in partnership with Theatre Knights for that production is also eligible to be cast in said production with the understanding that any liabilities with regard to insurance and/or safety are the responsibility of the sponsoring organization.
AMENDMENT XXX: Theatre Knight Membership Eligibility
In addition to that which is already outlined in this Constitution and its By-Laws regarding those eligible for membership in Theatre Knights, any individual who is currently a student within theManchester School District in grades 8 through 12 is now eligible for said membership. Any parent or guardian of a student within the Manchester School District , and any faculty or staff member of the Manchester School District is also eligible for participation with Friends of Theatre Knights, the parent and community support group for the theatre arts at Manchester High School West.
AMENDMENT XXXI: Theatre Knights’ Membership Dues
The annual dues for being recognized as an active member of Theatre Knights and to be eligible to earn ITS points toward membership in the International Thespian Society, Troupe 5559, will be $20 per school calendar year. Said dues must be paid to the Company Advisor or any member of the Theatre Knights’ Executive Board within two weeks of an individual’s becoming involved in any Theatre Knights’ event, activity or production. Said dues will be put toward the cost of Company operating expenses and productions. Any individual recognized as an active member of Theatre Knights for paying said dues will be eligible to receive one complimentary ticket for each production he or she is involved in, up to two main stage productions per school calendar year, and an invitation to attend the Annual ITS Awards and Induction Banquet free of charge.
AMENDMENT XXXII: Company Facebook Account Responsibility
The Historian and Publicity Manager shall be responsible for maintaining and keeping up-to-date any and all Company Facebook accounts. The President shall insure this is being done on a regular basis weekly. All members of the Executive Board are eligible to post or contribute material on Company Facebook accounts. Any and all material posted on Company Facebook accounts must be directly related to Company business and/or activities only.
AMENDMENT XXXIII: Company Email Newsletter Responsibility
The President shall insure that the Secretary, Publicity Manager and the Historian will work together to publish the company email newsletter in a timely manner to notify and keep the membership apprized of company events, activities, productions and fundraisers. The email Newsletter shall be edited and published as often as is deemed appropriate by the President and the Advisor in keeping with company activities. The Company Agent shall insure the newsletter mailing list is current and up-to-date with the newest and most current membership email addresses prior to each mailing.
AMENDMENT XXXVI: Company Facebook Account Responsibility
The President shall insure that the entire Executive Board will be responsible for and work together to insure necessary and required groups are formed on Facebook to insure that all appropriate company members involved in any Company event or activity are kept apprised of company events, activities, productions and fundraisers. The Facebook page will be updated as often as is deemed appropriate by the President and the Advisor in keeping with company news, activities and events. The Secretary and Publicity Manager will insure Facebook is up-to-date in keeping with those notices that fall under their respective responsibilities. The Historian shall insure appropriate photos from Company events and activities are updated on Facebook in a timely and efficient manner within 1 week after such activities.
AMENDMENT XXXVII: Set as a Standing Committee
Set: Set shall henceforth be a standing committee as outlines in Article IX of this Constitution with the following duties and responsibilities: Set will maintain the set closet and all set materials in a neat and orderly fashion and maintain and update an inventory of all materials and equipment pertaining to set. Set will also be in charge of organizing and maintain a crew to assist in building/painting the set. Set will assist as needed the production set designer for the current production. Set shall be staffed with a minimum of at least one person who will be efficient in the areas of painting and construction.
AMENDMENT XXXVIII: Theatre Knight Membership Eligibility
In addition to that which is already outlined in this Constitution and its By-Laws regarding those eligible for membership in Theatre Knights, any individual who is currently a student within the Manchester School District in grades 6 through 12 is now eligible for said membership. Any parent or guardian of a student within the Manchester School District , and any faculty or staff member of the Manchester School District is also eligible for participation with Friends of Theatre Knights, the parent and community support group for the theatre arts at Manchester High School West.
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