Our Radio Theatre was a resounding success! The actors had so much fun and the audience was really into it. They are already asking when we're going to do it again! Yipee!

Originally posted by museav [QUOTE=SamD] Over the years I have attempted to get involved with numerous local community theater groups but have yet to have a single one follow through on their initial interest with anything other than solicitations for financial donations. .

Try going to an audition and talking to the director and/or producer in person.

Originally posted by SamD That is a shame. But you DO need to be seen, to be seen — if you get my drift. The usual com theatre BODs are tired and burned out, not to mention forgetful. Becoming a member, going to shows, showing up at meetings, going to auditions will get you noticed. Sometimes it takes more than one audition, but if you love theatre, you'll do it!

Perhaps some misunderstanding. I am not discussing acting roles or directing, but rather volunteering for sound design, tech operation, set construction, ushering, etc. I keep encountering community theater groups that ask for volunteers for such roles but then do not follow up.

The one theater group I recently contacted has a dedicated page on their web site, separate from the auditions page, for volunteers that states "Are you interested in getting more involved? We are always looking for volunteers to help with front of house, set construction, backstage crew or lights and sound. Please enter your details below and we will let you know what opportunities exist with upcoming shows." Twice now, and several years apart, I submitted information and offered to help in any way, however I have yet to receive any response. Another community theater group in the area says on their web site "We are always looking for volunteers to assist us with tasks such as: Set Construction, Lighting, Sound/Audio, Costume Design Backstage Hand and Backstage Management" and if you have an interest to call or e-mail them, however they provide no phone number or e-mail address.

When one local theater was undergoing renovation and asking for community support I tried contacting both the developer and the non-profit organizing group on several occasions indicating an interest in donating professional design services, the same services I have been paid to provide on similar theater renovations, only to receive no response of any kind.

My point was really that if your group actively seeks volunteers and support from the community then when people respond at least acknowledge it, even if just to say that you have no current need. Quite bluntly, it is difficult to want to support a group that asks for help but then doesn't even respond if you offer to help.

Just to update my previous comments, the one community theatre group did finally respond. They apparently went through some management changes and once the lines of communication were opened things went quite well. I ushered for two performances over the weekend and got to bend the ear of their Production Manager who seemed real interested in future involvement. We'll see how it goes from here!