- Work closely with President and Producer (appointed by President). Keep Producer informed of all happenings related to the show (cast, cast changes, rehearsal schedule, rehearsal schedule changes, etc.).
- Meet with Board members prior to beginning directorship of a production in order to go over responsibilities, adopt a budget for that production, and establish communication lines between Director and Board members.
- Two months before production, present production budget to the Board for approval. A separate budget will be established for each production. Provide copy of approved budget to Treasurer.
- It is expected the director will create a positive, safe environment for the entire cast and crew.
- Conduct open auditions for all parts. No pre-casting.
- Make sure each person has filled out an audition form (online forms available).
- Cast all parts (and understudies, if desired). Director may ask for committees (of his/her own choosing) to help, especially for musicals. The Director may not be cast in any production that he/she is directing without the consent of the Board. Likewise, the director may not serve as music/vocal director without consent of the Board. One principal should be cast per part. Double casting is strongly discouraged, but if the Director wishes to double cast parts, this should be announced at auditions. Director must contact each person who had auditioned whether they are cast or not within a timely manner.
- Set up rehearsal schedule with cast and crew soon after auditions.
- Select and regularly communicate with set designers, lighting/technical director (if possible, have one experienced CTA lighting/technical person.), stage manager, etc. Choose pre-performance music, if desired. It’s recommended to have an initial planning meeting with the whole crew prior to the first rehearsal.
- Read through CTA Cuebook (guidelines and procedures) and share with cast. (Emphasize: NO SMOKING IN THE RINEHART THEATRE.)
- Work with Producer and Publicity person on program, posters, marquee (CTA will provide frame) and publicity. Provide information for these publications in a timely manner.
- Choose a musical director and orchestra (for musicals).
- Oversee sign-out and return of scripts, music, etc. (Materials must be turned in at the last performance. Costs incurred can be deducted from Directors’ fee if materials are late.) Return scripts/music to Treasurer who will send them back via certified mail or UPS.
- With the cast, choose site and date for cast party. CTA will provide $10.00 per cast and crewmember.
- Supervise and participate in striking of the set by the cast and crew after the final performance.
- Leave the Rinehart Theatre clean. Put everything away, including tools; pull all hardware from set pieces including flats; stand flats correctly (good side to good side); vacuum theatre house, stage, and basement; clean bathrooms; empty garbage and recyclables, etc.
- Replace black stage curtains, as labeled, if they have been removed. These duties must be completed within a week of final performance, unless next production’s Director wants part or all of set to remain, or there are extenuating circumstances approved by the Board.
- Return all set pieces, props, costumes, etc. borrowed from outside the theatre within one week of final performance.
- Regarding costumes and props:
- Non-used items must be returned immediately to their original places.
- Used items must be cleaned, returned, and hung in the costume loft on the special area marked for costume return.
- Supervise ongoing “good housekeeping” throughout rehearsals and after each performance, seeing that all trash is picked up and disposed of in proper receptacles, that the stage and house are vacuumed, and that the bathrooms are cleaned. All trash should be removed from the theatre during rehearsals and prior to performances. Inform theatre maintenance person regarding any needed housekeeping supplies.
- Follow Fire Marshall’s instructions after each rehearsal or performance:
- All extension cords must be unplugged.
- During theatre activities the doors on stage right must be unlocked.
- Check thermostat to be sure it is turned down overnight to 60 degrees.
- Check bathrooms for running water in commodes.
- Check that all doors are locked upon leaving.
- Turn off all lights.
- Keep fire doors clear of props, equipment, etc.
- Use only electrical/gaffing tape to mark stage prop positions, blocking, etc. Masking tape, Duct tape and/or carpet adhesive should not be used on the stage, as it is very difficult to remove.
- Use only latex paint on flats. NO OIL-BASED PAINT!
- Make sure entrances are clear of snow, debris, ice, etc., prior to auditions, rehearsals, and performances.
- Notify Board member(s) on maintenance for the month once theatre has been cleaned according to the above guidelines. Board member will inspect the theatre and inform the Treasurer when the guidelines have been met. Treasurer will then issue the Director’s stipend check.
- Remind cast and crew of appropriate parking during performances.
Directors are paid a stipend of $350 per musical, $250 per play, and $100 per one-act.
