Frequently Asked Questions
1. When does casting start for productions?
Open auditions are usually held 5-8 weeks before a show premieres. The Entertainment programs publicize their auditions well in advance in the local papers and on their websites. Rehearsal generally last 4 to 6 weeks and conducted between 7 and 10 pm, Monday through Thursday with some weekend rehearsals possible.
The programs also offer many ways to be involved without a commitment of several weeks. Music Cafes, Open Mic Nights, Jam Nights, Variety Shows and concerts offer Soldiers many ways to be involved when they can't commit to a long rehearsal period.
2. What can I do for the theater if I don’t want to act?
There are many ways to be part of the program - from painting sets, building costumes, tearing tickets, helping serve at the bar, playing an instrument or helping back stage. Each program has only one or two staff members and they rely on volunteer participants to make the theaters run.
Part of our function is education, so the staff will teach you everything you need to know to become an important part of a program. Many of the programs also offers classes for adults and youth in acting, singing, dancing and other performance and production areas.
3. When do the theaters announce their seasons?
Theater seasons usually begin in August/September and are generally announced sometime the spring before. At that time, the theaters announce the dates and schedules for all their auditions, shows and classes.
4. How do I get involved?
To get involved, simply contact your local Entertainment Branch Director or Theater Director. You can also contact Dane Winters, Region Entertainment Program Manager at dane.c.winters.naf@mail.mil.
5. Can I donate props and costumes to the theater?
Entertainment Branches happily accept donations of clothing, furniture, household goods and other items. Contact your local Entertainment Director for more information.
6. What kind of classes are offered?
Each Entertainment Branch offers a variety of classes including youth theater workshops, acting, singing, sewing and set building. Contact your local Entertainment Director for more information.
7. What is the age requirement for classes?
Classes are available for all ages - from youth "after school" programs to adult acting classes. Contact your local Entertainment Director for more information.
8. What is the age requirement for productions?
Each show requires a different age range. The programs present a variety of youth theatre, family shows, adult plays & musicals. Contact your local Entertainment Director for more information.
9. Can I participate at theaters in other communities outside of my own?
Of course. Our recreation programs are open to everyone and not restricted to specific communities. Frequently, participants perform or work at different theaters at different times.
10. Who is eligible to participate/volunteer?
The Entertainment program is open to all US soldiers, civilians and their families. Local national participants can also be involved as part of our function is assisting the command develop and enhance host nation relations and cultural exchange.
11. How do I make a show reservation?
All the theaters accept phone reservations during publicized business hours. Often theaters accept reservations over the internet or through email. Some theaters provide reservations and ticket sales through their community "One Stop" office. Contact your local Entertainment Director to see what reservation and sales options they offer.
12. How do I cancel a show reservation?
Please notify the theater if you must cancel a reservation. This allows us to offer tickets and the best seats possible to other patrons, especially for sold-out performances. Most theaters have a 30 minute cancellation policy - unpaid reservations are cancelled 30 minutes before the show and the seats offered to other patrons. Some theater also have a "no refund" policy. Contact your local Entertainment Director for their cancellation and refund policies.
13. What are the show prices? Are there discounts for certain shows? Are there season tickets available?
Ticket prices vary at each theater - generally between $12 to $18 for adults.
Most of the theaters offer reduced tickets for students, youth and seniors, as well group discounts or family rates. Most theaters have season ticket plans which are great values and come with added benefits. Contact your local Entertainment Director for ticket prices discounts and season ticket plans.
14. Is your theater facility handicap accessible?
Yes, the theaters are handicap accessible. Please let the theater know if you need assistance when making your reservations so they can better assist you.
15. Can I rent theater space or equipment for personal use?
The theaters often rent their stage or auditorium for military, community and private functions based on availability. The theaters may also rent lights, staging, costumes and technical equipment. Contact your local Entertainment Director for information on renting the theater, equipment or costumes.
