Theatre Etiquette - Multiple Shows?

My thoughts are dependant on who you are and your involvement with a play.

Directors, Lead Actors : Should really only do one show at a time. Community or Professional, your entire focus should be on the single production. Auditioning for, or arranging a second show is acceptable.

Principle (not lead) : Again, I feel that you should dedicate yourself to one production. However, I would not be adverse to auditioning for another show while rehearsing, and possibly starting rehearsals of said show in the final weeks of performances for your current show.

Chorus, Bit parts, Cameos with lines/songs : at least half your available time should be dedicated to one show. Doing two shows while possible, can be very exhausting and possibly distracting. Doing anything more than three is simply stupid.

Extras without lines/songs : if you are just a filler and have to opportunity at doing something better, then strongly consider your obligations and be upfront with the directors and other cast members. If you have made a commitment to one show, and another comes along ...

That being said, Community Theatre is slightly more challenging, especially when cast and crew are also engaged in seeking professional work. As an example, if a lead cast member of a show is offered, say a single day of paid-work, it is unfair to expect them to turn it down and attend rehearsals for a non-paid Community Production. As a director, you just expect them to work that little bit harder to make up for it. Little interruptions such as this can be managed.

Ultimately, the decision to do multiple shows should be very seriously considered. Directors and Leads (in my view) definitely have to make solid commitments. Other members of the show then negotiate with the director/producer/etc.

In professional theatre, it is generally frowned upon to be to overly committed to multiple productions.

Absit invidia

Jeff Watkins
Perth based Actor/Performer
Fight/Sword Choreographer
Virgin Director

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