Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We have tried to cover the most frequent queries here. If there is anything else that you want to know, please drop us a line using our Contact page.

1. Who funds Tread the Boards?

AThe group is self-funding. Our primary income is from members' subscriptions. These pay for (most) of our basic costs; rehearsal rooms, insurance, storage facilities. We try to meet the specific costs of each production, i.e. props, costumes, publicity, set, etc., through our ticket revenue. In addition we look for sponsorship and advertising in our programmes.

2. If someone takes a non-acting role with a production, may they join as an Associate member rather than a Full member?

AYes. Associate members can participate in all TTB activities. The only restictions are that they cannot act in productions (unless aged under 18), and they cannot vote at the AGM or be elected to the Committee.

3. How does the group decide on which plays to put on?

AUsually through a Play Selection Meeting which is open to all members. Members are encouraged to nominate plays for production and a decision is taken by the group as a whole.

4. Who directs your shows

AWe do not have a permanent director; we have a group of experienced members who take turns to direct, and we encourage members to dip their toe into the directing pond. Not having a single director helps to ensure that we achieve our aim of eliminating favouritism and cliques in casting.

5. I like acting. How long must I be a member of TTB before I get a chance to have more than a supporting role?

ACasting any show is the sole responsibility of that show's director. We aim to ensure that all group members get a chance of a good role over the year's three productions. It is quite common for new members to get a major role in their first show, it really depends upon what parts are available, and how the director feels that he / she can best cast the play. We do not require new actors to serve an apprenticeship as "spear carriers", nor do we expect you to have previous experience.

6. Do you do Musicals?

AWe have never yet put on a musical and there is little chance of us doing so in the foreseeable future. This is largely due to the high cost of producing musicals effectively, and the large casts that are usually required. Our emphasis is on the various forms of spoken drama, although we do include a lot of music and song in many shows, particularly Pantomimes.

7. How much commitment is needed?

AA considerable amount of commitment is required. Producing a play requires team work and that means that all the participants, whether actors or back-stage staff, need to do their bit. Actors need to learn their lines and moves, costumes need to be made, sets designed and built, lighting and sound devised and operated. It needs everyone involved to pull together to ensure the production's success. In the week before a show,the timetable is typically:

• Saturday - 10 a.m. to 5.00 pm - Get in to the theatre , build sets, set lights
• Sunday - 10 a.m. to 5.00 pm - Technical rehearsal
• Monday, Tuesday - 6.30 pm to 10.00 pm - Rehearsals
• Wednesday - 6.30 pm to 10.00 pm - Dress rehearsal
• Thursday, Friday, Saturday - 6.30 pm to 10.30 pm - Performances , striking the set and putting every thing away, and then off to the after show party!

This requires the involvement of all group members to work.

8. How often do you rehearse?

AWe rehearse every Monday evening from 7.45 to 10.00. Additional rehearsals are usually scheduled for Thursday evenings at the same times.

9. How long does a production take from beginning to end?

AOur usual production period is 13 weeks.

10. Where are you based?

AOur base for meetings and most rehearsals is The Methodist Church Hall, Chapel Street, Woburns Sands. Our main performance venues are The Chrysalis Theatre, Willen and The Madcap Theatre, Creed Street, Wolverton.