Tips, please on choosing shows

Hi all -

I was wondering if anyone can advise resources - online, in print, whatever - that would be useful to a production committee choosing shows for upcoming seasons (in Perth, in case it matters).

Any additional tips from those who have been involved in the decision-making process would be really helpful.

Many thanks -

Lisa Skryp

It's a minefield! anyone who goes onto a production committe is either very tough or has rocks in their head! whatever you pick SOMEONE will critizise the choice, its too bland/boring/predictable/tired or else its too way-out/ pornographic/controversial etc etc.

Seriously, you have to consider 1. your target audience. 2 your available resources and 3. bums on seats. because without the latter community theatres don't last too long. the secret is to try for an eclectic mix.
On-line resources include Samuel French, Currency Press, Warner Chappell, Hal Leonard, Dramatists Play service (HL are Aus. agents)
Curtis Brown, and others, THe ITA site has a number of them listed. THe Education Dept can usually tell you what plays are on next years school lists. The London Theatre Guide will show you what's popular currently. Ask around, your regular audiences will sometimes surprise you in suggesting plays they'd like to see put on.
Good luck

Hi Lisa,

You don't say if you are looking for plays or musicals...

I came across a most helpful book for musicals. It is called (wait for it) "Lets put on a Musical!". Written by Peter Filicha, it has details of over 200 shows from the famous to the little-known; breaks them down into 24 categories; and describes each in terms of story, best known songs, musical requirements (including instrumentation), chorus and dance numbers, and staging (including the sets, costumes and props you'll need). In all, a really good starter. I bought my copy from Angus & Robertson for $32.85, late in 2002; so it is readily available and quite affordable. (Back Stage Books. ISBN 0-8230-8817-0)

Can't help you in the same way with plays, sorry.

Cheers,
Russell

(Sound designer / Operator)
Players Theatre Company Inc
Mt Waverley Vic

Hi Lisa,

I realise this is a little late but...Have you tried the Australian Script Centre? They're based in Tasmania, and are a great resource for new Australian plays.

Ozscript.org is their internet address, I think, but any search engine should find them.

Regards

Chris