General Guidelines for Participation in Youth Theatre
Being cast in a production with Hold the Applause is a large commitment, and we want to make sure that both kids AND their parents are aware of this before making the decision to audition.
THE AUDITIONS
- We can't cast every child in every show. Typically we have over 50 children audition for one production, and with limited backstage space, we simply can't give everyone a part. Even before you sign your child up for an audition, talk to them about this possibility. We believe that this is an excellent teaching moment for your child to learn about rejection & perseverance. We always, always encourage children to audition more than once.
- Take out your calendar and make sure that you and your child are available for ALL show dates, and most (if not ALL) rehearsal days. If there is a day that you absolutely cannot be there (wedding, funeral, retirement ceremony, etc.) then have the date in mind to note on your child's audition form. Casting preferences will always be given to children who are available for all rehearsals.
- Parents, take special note of the time commitment. Most of our youth shows rehearse Monday through Friday, from 6:00-8:00pm (but this can vary slightly by show). We always expect you to be on time (5 min early) and pick up on time. Not every actor will be called to every rehearsal, but it is still expected that your child is available unless you've specified otherwise on their audition sheet.
- Audition Results will be posted on our website under "Auditions" > "Audition Results." The theatre will not call you. It is your responsibility to accept your role via email to the stage manager. (The stage manager's email will be listed with the audition results.)
THE REHEARSALS
- There is a MANDATORY PARENT MEETING and First General Rehearsal that is announced at auditions and posted with the audition results. At this meeting, all actors and their guardians will sign a cast contract, as well as learn about the rehearsal schedule, costuming, ticket sales, and more. We will also have a full read-through of the show.
- All requested "out dates" for rehearsals must be clearly stated on the actor's audition form. No other absences will be excused.
- Actors must attend every scheduled rehearsal and performance.
- We hold our actors (yes, even the youth actors) to a high standard of conduct. Good behavior, manners, and kindness are all required in our theatre. We do not tolerate crass behavior, disrespect, or bullying of any kind. No exceptions.
- Once at the theatre, actors must remain on theatre premises. No exceptions.
THE PARENTS
- Hold the Applause Productions is a 501c3 nonprofit community organization. We believe that the Albuquerque youth deserve a place to play and perform without having a price tag attached for the parents to worry over. Because these programs are free for your child to participate, it is absolutely vital that we have family involvement. Please plan on actively participating if your child is cast.
Participation may include:
- Supplying costumes and/or props for your actor
- Volunteered aid in set building/costume construction/theater preparation as needed
- Helping in the box office during shows
- Ushering and/or helping backstage during shows
- Additional volunteer tasks determined by the stage manager
THE SHOWS
- After the show opens, there are no rehearsals. Actors must arrive at the theatre by 12:30pm for day time shows, and 5:30pm for evening shows.
- A large portion of our operating budget for youth productions comes from ticket sales. We ask that you prepare to help us sell tickets to your child's performances by contacting family, friends, and mentors and inviting them to the show. Help us keep this programming free for your kids!
THE AUDITIONS
- We can't cast every child in every show. Typically we have over 50 children audition for one production, and with limited backstage space, we simply can't give everyone a part. Even before you sign your child up for an audition, talk to them about this possibility. We believe that this is an excellent teaching moment for your child to learn about rejection & perseverance. We always, always encourage children to audition more than once.
- Take out your calendar and make sure that you and your child are available for ALL show dates, and most (if not ALL) rehearsal days. If there is a day that you absolutely cannot be there (wedding, funeral, retirement ceremony, etc.) then have the date in mind to note on your child's audition form. Casting preferences will always be given to children who are available for all rehearsals.
- Parents, take special note of the time commitment. Most of our youth shows rehearse Monday through Friday, from 6:00-8:00pm (but this can vary slightly by show). We always expect you to be on time (5 min early) and pick up on time. Not every actor will be called to every rehearsal, but it is still expected that your child is available unless you've specified otherwise on their audition sheet.
- Audition Results will be posted on our website under "Auditions" > "Audition Results." The theatre will not call you. It is your responsibility to accept your role via email to the stage manager. (The stage manager's email will be listed with the audition results.)
THE REHEARSALS
- There is a MANDATORY PARENT MEETING and First General Rehearsal that is announced at auditions and posted with the audition results. At this meeting, all actors and their guardians will sign a cast contract, as well as learn about the rehearsal schedule, costuming, ticket sales, and more. We will also have a full read-through of the show.
- All requested "out dates" for rehearsals must be clearly stated on the actor's audition form. No other absences will be excused.
- Actors must attend every scheduled rehearsal and performance.
- We hold our actors (yes, even the youth actors) to a high standard of conduct. Good behavior, manners, and kindness are all required in our theatre. We do not tolerate crass behavior, disrespect, or bullying of any kind. No exceptions.
- Once at the theatre, actors must remain on theatre premises. No exceptions.
THE PARENTS
- Hold the Applause Productions is a 501c3 nonprofit community organization. We believe that the Albuquerque youth deserve a place to play and perform without having a price tag attached for the parents to worry over. Because these programs are free for your child to participate, it is absolutely vital that we have family involvement. Please plan on actively participating if your child is cast.
Participation may include:
- Supplying costumes and/or props for your actor
- Volunteered aid in set building/costume construction/theater preparation as needed
- Helping in the box office during shows
- Ushering and/or helping backstage during shows
- Additional volunteer tasks determined by the stage manager
THE SHOWS
- After the show opens, there are no rehearsals. Actors must arrive at the theatre by 12:30pm for day time shows, and 5:30pm for evening shows.
- A large portion of our operating budget for youth productions comes from ticket sales. We ask that you prepare to help us sell tickets to your child's performances by contacting family, friends, and mentors and inviting them to the show. Help us keep this programming free for your kids!
Questions?
Please email the Artistic Director at natalie@hapabq.org