Why is community theatre so bitchy?

> David Said;> Joe said;> A good start is the simple awareness that the problem exists,> and I feel confident in saying that very few REALLY believe that is> can be easily stopped. So if it can't be stopped, what can you do?>> On David's point '...and intimidates you into submission.' I> don't think this is always true. Not all will submit. For some, it> will only make them stronger and more determined. I've been the focus> of some really nasty back-handers but I've persisted and have overcome> many of these problems. I feel a better person for the experience.> I persisted only for my love of the Art, not the alternate 'social-life'> that I know others see theatre as.Well said Jeff - I didnt realise you were so sensitive about your LEGS please take my sincere apologise if my remarks have caused any back handers, but it has always been my belief - "if you got it .."Having only been an actor, in a previous but one life. I have been rather lucky I suppose! It would be a rarity for it raise its head back stage, if and when it does it is quickly stamped on - its surprising what gaffer tape is really good for - I would rather the person causing it, no matter what key job they have, after a QUITE DISCUSSION, decide to put it away in their dilly bag or walk past the exit on their way out - quietly, but it is and will be their decision.Every show gets at least ONE helping of this, or at least the ONE who trys to take over everyone elses job and show them how to do it better?. While at the same time they invariably screw their own up - they honestly believe they are helping and only end up a pain in the boog-a-loo. But this negative can be employed to make the circiut work better! What I have found is this is good and valuable training for most crew members, because when it happens, you can watch them bristle and see the pride oozing out slowly. This only fortifies them to show what they can do and they go on to do 'that little bit extra', by applying liberaly (or labouringly)the X Factor solution and achieving those little moments of magical theatre, you know! - when the hair on the back of the neck stands up.As for bitchiness backstage, it wont come from any Technicians as they all are very highly trained in sup-a-sensitive-ness and are complete Prima-oxy-morons - they have found out the hard way, "no one takes any notice of them anyway" - this is unheard of!> As nasty as it may sound, back-stage bitchiness is theatre's> evolutionary process. It is ment to seperate the dedicated thespians> from those in it 'to meet the girls' or other similar reasons. It's> not nice I know, but it does have it's purpose just like everything> else.> I do theatre for theatre's sake. I'm not in it just for kicks,> for the discount drinks at the bar or for the social aspect. I believe> that's why I and others can survive the natural culling process that> is a basic evolutionary process of any community environment.As for the social life aspects, I demand a play back - "where do you get it?????"> Jeff "a BLOODY individual" Watkins> and you can't fool me! ... Well, not all the time any way. ;-)>In the words of Miss 'Hilda Baker' and enacted by Miss 'Dawn Lake'"Go on - You tell 'em LUV!"Great posting Jeff!!!!David - Don't get to the stage where you believe the only way is to walk - "share it with others and learn what is shared" - bounce around with someone else, it hurts less than bouncing off the wall. I'm sure there is lots here and in your club who would bounce with you!Joe "no ones individual" McCabe