Frequently Asked Questions

  When and how did Clinton Community Theatre start?

The company was started in 1981 by Lois Mohan, Babe Ranieri, Dave Bourgous, Mitch Gould, Bob Crossley and Bill Merriman. CCT was founded, along with the Clinton Cultural Council, by an official vote of Board of Selectmen, to operate under the ‘umbrella’ of the town similar to a town board.  Board granted the new group full use of auditorium/stage as its home base and gave keys to David Bourgeois (then head of the theatre) due to the extensive ‘after-hours’ requirement for rehearsals, set construction, etc.  Town would not provide any monetary consideration to the group but instead, granted priority rights over other ‘non-town board’ groups to the auditorium, upper backstage rooms and basement as storage, preparation, rehearsals, etc. for productions.  “My Fair Lady” was the troupe’s first show -- performed in May 1981.

What kinds of shows does CCT produce? And when?

CCT usually produces two musicals a year – one in early-Spring (March/April) and the other one mid-summer (usually July). Each show typically requires 30 to 35 cast members and another 10 to 15 people for the production crew.

Can anyone audition? Do you have to be a member?

Auditions are open to everyone!  We do not pre-cast productions.  Casting is done following open auditions based solely on who is best for the role from all who audition.  Auditions are posted on our website and in the local papers as well as 'theater411' and other online sites.  Generally auditions are posted up to 5 months in advance.  Once you have performed with us, you are automatically a member

What should I expect at auditions? What do I need to bring or prepare?

Always held at the Clinton Town Hall auditorium  -- Childrens’ auditions are usually held on a Sunday afternoon -- Adults auditions on Sunday and Tuesday nights. You do not need to attend both auditions, but are welcome to do so.

Though not required -- If you have head shot and resume bring them with you. CCT has our own audition form that you’ll be asked to complete.  Bring your calendar -- we usually have the rehearsal schedule available and will ask you to note any/all potential conflicts.  Though full cast does not always need to be at every rehearsal, too many conflicts will make you ineligible.

You do not need to prepare a song since we generally teach one from the show.  We ask everyone to take their turn on stage (in front of the gathered group) and sing a solo, even if they only wish to be in the ensemble.  We will teach a basic dance/movement combination, so dress comfortably.  Lastly, cold readings from the script will be required for lead characters. 

Selected cast members will be contacted via phone or email usually the next day and posted on our website. Unfortunately we can not always contact those not cast, but we do try.  If for any reason you are not selected or a particular show – PLEASE come back and audition for another one.

What are the requirements?  Any restrictions or special criteria?

You MUST want to have fun!  Our spring show is generally open to all ages (including a children's chorus – age 5 and up).  The summer show is our young adult production, ages 15-35.  The requirements are always posted with the audition notice.

Rehearsals are usually 3 days per week and are dependent upon the director's schedules and general cast conflicts.  We typically rehearse Sunday afternoons, Tuesday & Thursday evenings.  Full cast does not usually have to attend every rehearsal – but you are expected to be there when scheduled. If you cannot make a rehearsal, there is a contact person to notify as soon as possible.

If I’m cast in a show, what is expected of me?  What can I expect?

We ask for a $25 registration fee which helps cover photocopies, administrative costs, etc.  Actors are not paid for any performances.

A script and/or vocal score will be assigned and distributed during the first rehearsal.  They are yours to use during the production – we ask that you only use a #2 pencil to make any notes. We typically ask for a $20 refundable fee for these books. When they are collected during tech week your uncashed check is returned.  If books are damaged or lost CCT must pay for them so your check will be held.

A detailed rehearsal schedule and cast list will be provided with the first few rehearsals and is always available on our website.    Additional notices about costumes, program ads, and ticket sales will be distributed close to the performance dates. Though we provide costumes, cast members may be asked to supply... shoes, nylons, pants, etc.

Posters will be available a few weeks before the show – cast members are expected to post them and help promote the show.   Tickets are usually available for purchase 2 weeks before performance dates.  Set construction will be going on during the production and cast members will be expected to assist with final staging, painting, set dressing, etc. on the weekend prior to tech week.

Company t-shirts are available for each show.  They usually have the show logo and on the front, cast/staff signatures on the back. These can usually be purchased for approximately $25.

What is “Tech Week?

    Tech Week (aka technical week) starts the Sunday before the 1^st performance. Expect to have a long day Sunday afternoon rehearsal, followed by a company cook-out, then evening rehearsal.  Plan to rehearse every night that week. Lights, sound, costumes will be added during the week so it can get a little chaotic, we ask you to be patient and respectful of all cast and crew members.
 

Who makes up the staff of CCT?

Bill Grady, an eighth-grade social studies teacher at Lancaster Middle School, has been involved with the group since 1981.  A “third generation Clintonite”, Grady has worn many hats for the group.  He began as a cast member and held that role until 1992, when he became the resident director, a position he has held ever since. 

Music directors and choreographers vary – this information is provided with the audition notice.  Costumers vary by show as well. Two Co-Producers manage the administrative and financial tasks. Stage managers and backstage crew vary by show. Cast members may be expected to assist with moving basic set pieces and props. We are always looking for new staff members.