Oh, and I definitely intend to join the play selection committee... I need to become better-read in theater, and this sounds like a great opportunity to do so. I may also request a directing apprenticeship for one of next year's shows. On the technical side, lighting and sound design certainly pique my interest....

I'll have to take a look at the lineup in July and sort out what I'd like to do for which show.

A while ago I was part of PCP. Since then I got very involved in community theatre. I have been Vice President of PRT and have been Directing, stage managing, set designing, light designing, choreagraphing and performing in PRT, DOT, IOT and CST shows. My question is ifI join the PCP will there be some kind of prejudice against me because I have been involved with "community theatre"? I have been told that I will not get a bad responce from one person and then from another I got that I would possibly be shunned. I just want the honest answer.

I apologize for not sticking my 2 cents worth in earlier. (Just noticed the postings.) The incenption of the PCP happened only 5-6 years ago and was made up of just a few people, off and on throughout the years. It has just been last year and this year, really, that we have maintained a steady, reliable, and talented group of folks of more than 5 people. Yes, we have some who have been here since the beginning; however, it is just a handful. The others have trickled in throughout the years. Having said that, it has just been recently that we have experienced the growth you see now. As for growth in talent, that is something that has sprung up w/in the last couple of years and the playhouse has tried exceedingly to accommodate with shows that are more of a stretch. Now is the time that a progressive move forward must occur. Growth, in any program, happens in stages and I believe that this is the next stage for PCP.

As for the actor/tech relations, I, too, felt the strain. However, I grew up in theatre programs where everyone did everything, within reason. You helped where needed, etc. And, it has only been with the PPH that I have experienced the separation. I believe part of that is due to the employment situation there. (Whereas before everyone was a volunteer, student, etc.) Having a theatre where employed people do the work has been an adjustment for me, as well. (Along with the limitations that this brings to the table.) Using us as volunteers to run the shows, etc., is a great sign. It means that they know us, trust us, and believe that we are more than capable of handling the work that someone else was hired to do. And, I will be taking full advantage of it. I have a costuming background. I tracked in Acting/Costuming while receiving my degree and miss being in the costume shop. So, I plan to help Susana as much as she needs. Perhaps, even volunteering to costume design a show. (Obviously one that I'm not previously involved in. lol)

These are my suggestions:

1. When the new season is released decide early what you want to be involved in and in what capacity. Then, let them know, in writing, so that they have a record of it. (Talk to me about this so I can make sure it gets through the right channels.)

2. Show your face. Pop in, on occasion and let them know you are available to help out. If you want to file, show your face in the office. "Hey, I've got an hour, what can I do to help?" This increased face time will encourage them that we are serious about helping out. Walking the walk, not just talking the talk, so to speak.

3. Apply to join the drama council. It is easier to make changes within, than without. So, go for it; get in there, and git r done. This council will be a great way to have an inside look on the changes and possibly be a part of making the way for them. And, I agree with Jay on politics to a certain degree; however, I don't believe that this will be the case for the council. They are going to have a heavy work load and major responsibilities. I believe that everyone will be working toward the same goals, using the same guidelines, and such to where politics won't have much of a say, if at all.

Finally, these changes are for the greater good of the group. We are lucky to have such dedicated thespians eager to do the work, from the planning, to the production, and strike of a show. Yes, QC, I believe that the AV hasn't seen the best of us, yet. But, it hasn't been for trying over the years. The playhouse shows over the years have tried to appeal to a variety of audiences and it may have cost them the press that a musical, etc. might allow. But, with that, much responsibility has been demanded for the best in all of us. Now, let us shine and let the AV stand back and bask in our glow.

Your fearless friend,
Tamitha

Well I guess it's all been said already, but I'd like to say for my part that I think no matter what we do to the structure of PCP and PPH NOTHING will truly change if the attitudes and mentalities don't follow along.

We can have all the committees in the world, but if the techies don't see any reason to mingle or the actors are hesitant to get their feet wet, it will be a serious uphill battle.

So, if we all take this on with as much positive energy as possible, and we look at it as a way to create the change that so desperately needs to happen, then I think it can work.

Despite some previously frustrating experiences on this specific front I am trying to stay positive, though hesitant to get my hopes too high.

Reading what evertyone is saying I find it kinda funny that the techies are the ones who are encouraging me to do the PCP. I am friends with most of the tech staff and they are very positive about the PCP.

Word on the grapevine is that a few of us will be meeting with theater management next week. I'm looking forward to it. This is long past due... seems like this discussion board is the only place where anything is getting talked about. All you tech and staff who recently joined the board, post your own opinions! If the threads seem one-sided, that's because only one side is taking the time to bring these issues up.

I've said it before, I'll say it again: I'm ready to rock this next year regardless of what happens... By golly, I'm still going to fly in the face of problems I see, but unless I'm kicked out or something, I'm sticking with it.

(Fired from PCP... wait a minute, I pay *them*... I need a better agent!) (just kidding)