“I’ve learned that many able-bodied neurotypical people in the community have the perception that inclusion and accessibility are incredible insurmountable feats. They aren’t, at all. If you’re running a community theatre, you have a responsibility to find room at the figurative table for performers that reflect your community. I guarantee that your community is diverse in terms of how their bodies and brains work.”

“Theatre is where I can put on a costume and zip up the zipper to become someone else. I don't have to worry about my problems; they melt away as I become someone completely different than myself.”

“When it comes to community theatre, political issues are a touchy subject. Typically, many theatres will stay away from politically themed shows or ones with divisive topics. After all, the goal is to make money and if you're angering half your audience with perceived political statements, you're putting your theatres future at risk.”

“A local actor and former finance manager for a Pennsylvania community theatre has been charged with embezzling over $2,000 from the nonprofit organization.”

“June is National Safety Month, so in honor of that, we are listing a few basic areas every single community theatre and high school theatre should prioritize for the safety of their volunteers.”

“Nothing is guaranteed in the arts. Even if you do a good job spreading the word, there’s no promise that people will show up, either for auditions or the show itself.”

‘Recently I was alerted to a community theatre that was charging $50 to audition for their upcoming shows. I was more than a bit surprised by this because it’s the first time I’ve ever seen a community theatre charge, let alone that much, for someone to simply audition for their shows.”

“There has always been a problem with reviews of community theater productions. While the quality of the productions under scrutiny can vary widely from very, very good to very, very bad, community theater reviews always seem to err on the side of caution.”

‘To the community theatre that shaped me: Thank you. Thank you for taking me when I was little and had no idea of who I was and being with me as I figured it out.”

Many of us work full-time jobs, what I refer to as a vocation to support our avocations. I can’t tell you how many times people ask me after seeing a show or hearing I am in a show, “How much do you get paid for doing this?” Of course, in community theatre, the answer is nothing. The look of surprise on their faces is astounding.

“Last night or yesterday afternoon, you finished your final performance of a show. You had an incredible run, the cast was fantastic, and the performances were some of the most memorable times of your life. But now you're miserable, and you know this weekend will only get worse.”

“Having been involved in community theatre for over 40 years…yes, I admit it and do it proudly….I have personally seen this wonderful genre from multiple sides. As an actor, producer, stage manager, director….I have seen it. And the benefits that have been reaped have contributed to many aspects of my life, socially and privately.”