Theatre Allies
If one were to identify a specific phrase that descibed community theatre, “Coming Together” might embody numerous aspects of what we do:
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Theatre Allies is a new program implemented by AACT to encourage and celebrate theatres—and even individual theatre supporters—coming together to form alliances in which theatres are strengthened through collaboration, cooperation, and assistance on a local/regional level. Webster's defines an ally as "one that is associated with another as a helper; a person or group that provides assistance and support." And that's what this program is all about.
Sample Alliance Features
- Regular meetings (once a week, once a month—whatever works for the allies)--meetings can be in person, over the phone, some email—what works best
- Discussions regarding history or current challenges that are perceived to stand between the theatre’s current situation and where they dream of being
- Recommendations on strategies, artistic choices, staffing, board of directors, volunteers, administration, etc.
- Possibility of some shared resources (e.g., equipment, tools, set pieces, costumes, etc.)—limited to whatever is reasonable and possible for sponsoring theatre
- Joint ventures (e.g., attendance at Board of Directors’ meeting, auditions, rehearsal, special event co-presentation, joint production, etc.) —options are limitless
- Various alliance relationships are possible: Peer-to-Peer, Mentor-Mentee, etc.--the specifics can be customized to whatever is needed or most beneficial to both Allies
Charter Members
While we’re just launching this exciting program, four AACT-member theatres have already stepped up and formalized their alliance, or expressed interest in participation:
Grand Rapids Civic Theatre (Grand Rapids, Michigan) Bruce Tinker, Executive/Artistic Director |
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Midland Community Theatre (Midland, Texas) Tim Jebsen, Executive Director |
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Salina Community Theatre (Salina, Kansas) Michael Spicer, Executive Director |
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Venice Theatre (Venice, Florida) Murray Chase, Executive/Artistic Director Artists Collaborative Theatre (Elkhorn City, Kentucky) Stephanie Richards, Executive Director |
Getting Started
For more information on the Theatre Allies process and to download a Member Alliance Agreement to participate in this exciting program, click the appropriate link below:
Theatre Allies General Procedures | Member Alliance Agreement