Spotlight
Stories that deserve your attention
How to Reject When You’re Rejecting
“No matter what your role in theatre is, any way you dice it, rejection sucks. But when people don’t handle rejecting their applicants with a sense of professionalism, being rejected is even worse.”
Christian Youth Theater facing multiple allegations of sexual abuse
“A National youth theater organization is under fire over multiple allegations of sexual misconduct and other offenses. Leaders at Christian Youth Theater have responded that they are investigating each claim, working with authorities, and will change their policies going forward. However, victims and others associated with the organization, say that’s not nearly enough.”
How community theaters help the art survive
“We in community theaters have incredibly talented participants who are as dedicated to the craft as anyone attempting to make a go of it in this sacred world of make-believe and story-telling.”
Circle in the Square Theatre School faces accusations of systemic racism and sexual misconduct
“A prestigious theatre school in New York City is facing accusations from systemic racism to sexual misconduct to homophobia after more than a dozen alums have posted their accusations online.”
Zoom is Changing Theatre and Tiring You Out, Here’s Why
“ZOOM. Agents, casting directors, theatre companies, and producers are using it more and more to create work during and maybe even after this pandemic. Of course, not having to travel for miles on the tube, metro, or subway to auditions is something we can all rejoice in. However, you’re tired of Zoom and I don’t mean that metaphorically, I mean physically and mentally. You know that foggy brain exhaustion you get after just an hour on Zoom; it’s a THING and here’s why.”
Professional Ballerina Reviews Ballet Scenes, from 'Black Swan' to 'Billy Elliot'
Julie Kent, former ballet dancer turned Artistic Director of The Washington Ballet, reviews iconic ballet scenes from films including 'Black Swan,' 'Billy Elliot,' 'Center Stage,' 'Save the Last Dance,' and plenty more.
The mystery surrounding "Summer Lovin'" will be answered with planned 'Grease' prequel
One of musical theatre’s biggest mysteries will finally be solved with a planned prequel to one of the most popular musicals of all-time - Just how exactly did Sandy and Danny meet?
Yes, we’re apparently getting a prequel to Grease.
Woof! Some Tips for Having Animals Onstage
So maybe your next season includes a musical or play that calls for real animals and you’re a little worried. As humans, we can’t be in control of an animal’s every move. What we can do is make sure our show is respectful, safe, and well prepared. If you’re a community theatre looking into a play that requires animals, you might need some additional support.
Was a Theatre Staff Fired for a Social Media Post Supporting Black Lives Matter or Budget Cuts?
“On June 10th, the staff at the Old Creamery Theatre Company posted a statement of support for the Black Lives Matter movement and an action plan to do better on their social media platforms. Within days, the theatre’s Board of Trustees demanded they take down the post. Weeks later, the board fired ten of the eleven staff members. While the board is citing budget cuts as the reason for the terminations, the former staff aren’t so sure about that.”
7 Musicals I'd Love to See High Schools Perform
While the COVID-19 shutdown sadly canceled many spring high school musicals, it’s never too early to start thinking about next year and what material these schools should select. So here are seven suggestions. Some of these you may have already produced and some you might now know. It should also be mentioned that all of these shows are licensable.
I Have Conflicting Views On ‘Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist’ from Avenue Q
“The song comes off as an advocate for us to all be passive bystanders in systemic racism, rather than active bystanders.”
Teen Actor Accuses Songwriter, Chip Deffaa, of Exposing Himself During Hike (Updated)
“Actor Erich Schuett has accused writer Louis “Chip” Deffaa of exposing himself while the two were on a hike earlier this week. The 16-year-old posted a detailed account of what occurred on his Facebook page. When asked to comment on the allegation, Mr. Deffaa confirmed much of Mr. Schuett’s statement but denies the allegation that he “exposed” himself and that ‘absolutely no crime took place.’ However, the New Jersey State Police have filed a complaint against Mr. Deffaa for lewdness.”