How to join a Long Island community theater production
Lighthouse Repertory Theatre Company has no fixed performance space, but rather travels around Long Island with productions like “Into the Woods,” above. Credit: Lisa Schindlar
Long Island’s community theaters are always looking for fresh faces — and not just for the spotlight.
“It might be easier than you think,” said Tony Chiofalo, 57, of Lake Grove, president and co-founder of Lighthouse Repertory Theatre Company. The nonprofit stages productions across the Island while helping other organizations raise money and awareness.
In fact, most community theater groups are built on newcomers willing to try.
Mary Kalich, 54, of Mattituck, who has directed shows at the nonprofit North Fork Community Theater, said, “Volunteers are welcomed with open arms at most Long Island theater organizations.”
It’s not just actors who are wanted, she said. “Orchestra members, backstage staff, wardrobe makers, prop finders, ticket takers, ushers, refreshment cashiers and more are needed to make each play a success.”
Chiofalo said regional theaters always need volunteers. “We especially like to recruit people from areas where each of our plays will be performed because they help draw in the community.”
Lighthouse Repertory Theatre Company, recently named the resident theater company at Celebrate St. James Center for the Arts, has staged “Into The Woods” at the Twin Oaks Day Camp theater building in Freeport and “Guys and Dolls” at The Bellmore Movies & Showplace and St. James Episcopal Church.
Most Long Island community theaters are nonprofits relying on volunteers, donations, admission fees and grants to operate. Some offer stipends for the creative and production teams, musicians, key administration and stage management personnel, but actors and stage crew are typically unpaid.
For those interested in getting involved, Chiofalo said the best advice is to simply show up and be yourself. “Theater organizations are warm and appreciative communities,” he said. “If you contribute and work well with others, you’ll find a home with most any theater group on Long Island.”
Many roles require little or no prior experience, Kalich said.
“Just bring your enthusiasm and you’ll be amazed at how appreciated you’ll feel come opening night,” she said.
Advice for beginners
“Have no fear,” Kalich said. “Community theaters provide a supportive environment where anyone and everyone can shine.” Those hoping for onstage roles should search online for the contact info needed if interested in a specific organization, and reach out via fillable forms, emails or phone contacts provided. Open auditions may also be offered.
Behind the Scenes
If you’d prefer a role that’s less showy, consider set building, lighting and sound staff posts. For even more obscurity, you could help by scouting props, ushering or even cleaning. These roles are vital but allow newcomers to get involved in a low visibility, low-pressure way.
Casting Call
For a listing of some community theater plays currently showing across Long Island, as well as audition calls for upcoming shows, check out the Long Island Community Theatre Cooperative at lictc.org. It serves as a central clearing site for community theater show announcements, open audition notices, job openings and more.
Sarra Sounds Off, Ep. 31: 'Walk with Joe,' flag football and more On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," take a lap with the Middle Country athletic director, Jonathan Ruban checks in with the Copiague flag football team and Jared Valluzzi has the plays of the week.
Sarra Sounds Off, Ep. 31: 'Walk with Joe,' flag football and more On the latest episode of "Sarra Sounds Off," take a lap with the Middle Country athletic director, Jonathan Ruban checks in with the Copiague flag football team and Jared Valluzzi has the plays of the week.
