Connecting with Professional Theatre Companies Through Community Theatre

Is it possible for people who volunteer and work in community theatre to have connections to professional theatre companies?

Absolutely. Being involved in community theatre can bridge the gap between aspiring and professional theatre enthusiasts, providing a platform to build meaningful connections and potentially even landing professional opportunities. Here's a closer look at how this unique intersection works.

Building Professional Networks in Community Theatre

Just a few weeks ago, a woman I collaborated with on a community theatre show introduced me to a director who was then working at a professional theatre that I had previously worked at. This connection was purely coincidental, but it highlights the potential for cross-pollination between the community and professional theatre worlds.

According to my observations, there are at least a dozen individuals in my city who are either semi-professional or former professionals in theatre. They maintain ongoing contact with their former collaborators from Hollywood, Chicago, San Francisco, and New York, among other regional professional theatre hubs. However, these connections often evolve from professional to personal as time goes by, transitioning from professional exchange to more casual, friendly relationships.

Professional theatre is a professional arena, and connections are time-sensitive, especially if the artist is no longer based in the professional theatre scene. The golden era of 'bring me a copy of that new script' or 'what’s the contact number of that actor you worked with last month' may be over, replaced by more general 'let’s grab a lunch.' It’s a reflection of how the theatre industry has evolved both in terms of its professionalism and the nature of personal relationships within it.

Exploring the Duality of Community Theatre

Community theatre offers an environment that can be both supportive and liberating for those who may have found the professional theatre grind too demanding or felt they’ve reached their talent ceiling. Many people who are passionate about theatre but were disillusioned by the pressures of the professional world find a welcoming home in community theatre.

Remember the times when I was in community college, participating in theatre productions? Numerous teachers, directors, even a few actors with professional experience gravitated towards the community theatre world. This transition was not unexpected, as community theatre offers a fun, easy, and low-stakes environment compared to actively making a living from it.

The Risks and Precautions

However, it’s worth noting that there can be some predatory individuals within community theatre. Many young, vulnerable, or attractive actors may be approached by 'charlatans' who use their 'talent' as a means to exploit them. The pickup line, 'Wow, you're really talented, I should introduce you to some of the people I know in the city,' can unfortunately be a trap.

If anyone tries to leverage their 'connections' to solicit personal favors or engagements, congratulations – you've likely found a predator. Expose them immediately to the entire group and use Google to research their background thoroughly. This precautionary measure can help protect aspiring theatre artists and ensure a safe and nurturing environment for all members of the community.

In conclusion, while community theatre presents unique challenges, it also offers numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth, as well as invaluable networking and connection-building experiences. Just be sure to stay vigilant and protect yourself from potential predators, ensuring that your journey in theatre remains both rewarding and safe.