MEMBERS HANDBOOK
Welcome to the Walpole Footlighters and thank you for your commitment to community theater. As a member of the Footlighters, you enjoy many privileges, the most important of which is the right to vote on theater governance. It is with great appreciation that we thank you for joining the Footlighters.
To better acquaint you with the theater and the organization, we have compiled this Handbook. We hope that it answers many of the questions that you may have regarding your responsibilities as a member as well as the organizational structure of the theater. If you do have other questions, please contact the Member-At-Large or any Board member.
About The Theater
Did you know that the Walpole Footlighters is one of the oldest community theaters in the country?
The theater was organized in 1924 by a group fondly called “The Original Thirteen” with a production of The Dover Road in the Walpole Town Hall. In 1939, the Footlighters secured permission to use the Lewis Barn, which was located on East Street, as a theater. “The Barn” was our home for the next twenty years until 1959. With the efforts of John Goss, the generosity of Mr. Charles Sumner Bird, and the great support of many patrons, members, and friends, the warehouse on Scout Road was transformed into our present Footlighters Playhouse. We are one of the few non-professional theater groups in the country that can say, “We own our own theater!” For a more detailed history of the theater, see this link on the Footlighters website.
Theater Mission
The mission of the Walpole Footlighters is to produce quality theater on a continuing basis as an all-volunteer organization and to encourage participation from theater enthusiasts from the surrounding communities.
Member Privileges
Members enjoy many privileges, the most important of which is the right to vote for officers and on many issues that affect the organization. Paid members receive email newsletters and frequent notices detailing upcoming auditions, workshops, general meetings and social gatherings. Members are also eligible to purchase up to 4 tickets at a 50% discount and are invited to the open dress rehearsal night of each show for an evening of socializing and entertainment.
Membership Responsibilities and Participation
Anyone who wishes to be involved in the Footlighters and is over 18 or out of high school is welcome. Younger community members may participate with the permission of their parent(s) or guardian(s). Newcomers are encouraged to participate on stage and backstage. We welcome thespians of all kinds–young and old, experienced and novice.
Community theater involves a great deal of work in a variety of areas. Sets, props, costumes, sound, lighting, box office, publicity, posters, programs, and front of house staff are all essential to a production. The Footlighters also have to maintain the Playhouse.
Of course, every show requires actors. However, we often have many more people who wish to act than we have roles. The organization works because many of these people are dedicated to the theater and they participate in other areas when they are not performing. If not enough people volunteer to do the non-acting work, there will be no acting because there will be no show. All members will be called when help is needed and members are expected to help out where they can.
Everyone who participates in Footlighters activities is expected to treat the Playhouse and all who enter with respect.
Membership Dues
The Footlighters fiscal year begins in July and ends in June. Dues are paid in July for the fiscal year. Dues are not pro-rated if you join later in the year. The current dues can be found on the Footlighters website.
If you are acting in a production for the first time this season, your membership is required. Dues are monitored by the Member-At-Large during the production. You can pay your dues online.
Ticket Policies
Reserved Seating Tickets
All tickets for season productions are sold as reserved seating (meaning that the ticket holder is assigned a seat). Current ticket prices are available on our web site. There is a discount for groups of 10 or more. Production tickets purchased individually are not refundable and may not be exchanged through the Box Office. Online purchases may be exchanged online.
All tickets must be paid in advance. The Box Office will not hold tickets without payment. Payment may be made by credit card, check, or cash.
Tickets are sold through the Box Office line (508-668-8446), through the mail, or online at our web site at http://www.footlighters.com.
Season Tickets
Season tickets include reserved seats to all selected productions. Prices are less than buying individually. Check our web site for current pricing.
Season tickets for a particular performance may be exchanged for another performance date of the same show by mailing the ticket(s) to the Box Office up to one week before the production’s opening night. The new tickets will be held at the Box Office for pickup on the night of the exchange. Subscribers can also exchange tickets online if they have the ticket code.
Complimentary Ticket Policies
Anyone who works on a production backstage is entitled to one (1) complimentary ticket. Any cast member who performs at least 3 hours of technical assistance (i.e. helps the costume team; attends a build day; is a dance captain) is entitled to one (1) complimentary ticket. This ticket may be used by the person who works on the show or may be designated for someone else’s use. The ticket may be reserved through the Box Office. Online reservations must be done by the cast or crew member using the email address we have in our system. Seating is subject to availability. Ushers, ticket takers, and parking lot attendants are not eligible for a complimentary ticket; however, they may watch the performance at the discretion of the Head Usher.
Member Discounts
Paid members in good standing are eligible to purchase four (4) tickets for each production at half price. Member discount tickets can be purchased online or through the Box Office and seating is subject to availability. To get the discount, you must use the email address that we have in our system.
Governance
Board of Directors
The Walpole Footlighters is incorporated with the State of Massachusetts and is governed by a Board of Directors. The members of the Board are nominated and elected by the general membership, with the exception of the Play Selection Committee Chair, who is elected by the members of the Play Selection Committee. The Board is comprised of the following members:
President Vice President
Secretary Treasurer
Public Relations Manager Publications Manager
Facilities Manager Social Media Manager
Member-At-Large Play Selection Committee Chair
At the will of the membership, a position may be shared by two members. All Directors must be members of the Footlighters in good standing.
Board of Director Meetings
The Board of Directors meets once a month, usually at the theater, though a Zoom option is available. Meetings are published in the calendar on the Footlighters web site. They are usually the second Wednesday of the month. Any member in good standing (paid up membership) is welcome to observe a Board meeting.
Membership Activities
General Meetings
The general membership meets to conduct business up to three times a year generally in the fall, winter, and spring. Any activity that requires a vote by the membership is scheduled at these times. The membership meeting is a time for all members to discuss the business of the theater, share information, and socialize. All members are encouraged to attend. According to our bylaws, a quorum of 20% of the paid members must be present to conduct official business.
Each membership meeting begins with Board of Director reports to the membership, followed by any business that the general membership wishes to conduct. The agenda for the meeting is posted in the newsletter, emailed, or provided to the membership before the meeting.
Annual Meeting
The Annual Meeting is held each June. The purpose of the meeting is for the general membership to vote on the proposed slate of officers and committee members submitted by the Nominating Committee. At the Annual Meeting, the membership also concludes business of the Footlighters for the season. The Annual Meeting is usually an outdoor social event as well.
Fall Cleanup
Each fall, before the first show opens, a thorough cleanup of the theater is scheduled. The Vice President is responsible for planning the cleanup. All members are encouraged to help sometime during this event.
Waiver of Injury
All participants in a Footlighters event other than a social event are expected to sign a liability waiver. This waiver is required by the Board of Directors. Waivers are available from the Member-At-Large and are required of all those who are cast or working in a production. Anyone who does not sign a release waiver will not be allowed to participate in any activity on theater property.
Committees
The Walpole Footlighters has two standing committees, the Nominating Committee and the Play Selection Committee.
Nominating Committee
The Nominating Committee convenes to select a slate of potential officers. The slate is presented to the membership for election at the Annual Meeting. The Nominating Committee may also be convened if a Board member resigns and must be replaced. The chair of the Nominating Committee is the Member-At-Large. The Member at Large selects four members who are not on the Board to serve on the Committee.
Play Selection Committee
The Play Selection Committee is made up of five to seven members who are elected for rotating terms of two years. The candidates for committee members are selected by the Nominating Committee and elected by the general membership at the Annual Meeting. The committee members elect the Play Selection Committee chair from their ranks. Traditionally it is one of the continuing members of the committee.
The Play Selection Committee is responsible for reading scripts submitted by the membership and patrons, attending meetings on a regular basis, and selecting the next season. The selection of the next season is made with marketability, artistic vision, and the best interests of the theater in mind. The Board of Directors may also provide guidance to the Committee. The Committee must present the selections, with alternates, to the Board of Directors by a deadline set by the Board. Upon approval of the season by the Board of Directors, the Play Selection Committee Chair is responsible for obtaining all performance rights on behalf of the club.
The Play Selection Committee is also responsible for selecting directors for the upcoming season. The Play Selection Committee requests a notice to go out to all potential directors notifying them of the season selection and the deadline for indicating interest in directing. The Play Selection Committee may ask for a written proposal and/or request an interview with potential directors to help them make their decision. The Play Selection Committee ensures directors are confirmed and that contracts have been delivered and signed.
The Play Selection Committee additionally secures Production Managers for each production. There may be single or co-Production Managers and should ideally be secured along with the directors at the start of the season, but no later than 2 months before the first performance of that production.
The Play Selection Committee Chair acts as the liaison between the Board and the new directors until a Production Manager(s) or Stage Manager(s) is on board.
Other Committees
Other ad hoc committees may be established by the Board of Directors as needed.
Membership Representation
The general membership is represented on the Board by the Member-At-Large. If you have any question or comment that you would like to bring to the Board’s attention, please notify the Member-At-Large.
Production Tasks
The regular season productions are the Footlighters’ product and are what keeps us in business. To do this, help in many areas is essential.
Performance
All auditions are open to members and non-members. Everyone is encouraged to audition. Pre-casting is strongly discouraged. If a director has decided to pre-cast a role, it will be announced in all audition notices.
Casting is the prerogative of the director and his or her staff. Casting should reflect the best choice of acting talent appropriate to the show and the ensemble. If there are two actors of equal qualification, the director may give preference to candidates who are members in good standing or who have made previous non-acting contributions to the organization.
Everyone in the cast is required to join the Footlighters for the current season by paying membership dues.
Design
There are multiple design opportunities the season for sets, lighting, sound, properties, and costumes. If a designer has not worked with the Footlighters previously, he or she may be asked to work with one of our established designers to become familiar with the theater and the facilities that are available.
Directing
Directors are selected by the Play Selection Committee after the season has been announced. A director may be asked to submit a brief written proposal or have an interview with the committee. If a director has not worked with the Footlighters before, the Play Selection Committee may recommend that he or she act as Assistant Director with one of our established directors to become familiar with the theater and the facilities that are available, or an Assistant Director may be assign who is familiar with us.
Backstage
Well before the production opens, the Production Manager(s) recruit backstage staff (including props people, dressers, and equipment operators) and see that all production activities occur on schedule. During performances, the Stage Manager is in charge of the backstage area. There are many opportunities during each show to participate backstage. Let the current Production Manager(s) know that you are interested.
Set Strike
Set strike occurs on the Sunday following the final performance of a show. Everyone involved in a production, on and off stage, is expected to participate in set strike. Many hands make light work! Strike is called by the Production Manager(s). At the end of the strike, the theater should be ready for work on the next production to begin.
Front of House
Front of House staff includes ushers, ticket takers, parking attendants, and Box Office staff. Ushers and ticket takers also act as concessionaires during the intermission and are responsible for picking up the theater after the show is over. Front of House staff are recruited and managed by the Head Usher. Parking attendants are scheduled by the Facilities Manager. Box Office staff are arranged by the Box Office Manager to ensure coverage for each performance.
House Rules
A theater can be a dangerous place. It is important for everyone’s health and safety to keep the house in good order at all times. Tools must be kept in their assigned locations when not in use. Do not handle any equipment (tools, lights, switches, computers) unless you are familiar with it.
The Footlighters does not have a janitor on staff, so everyone needs to pitch in to keep the premises clean. Trash baskets and other waste containers must be kept in order and emptied when they are full. Food should not be left in the open; seal it and put it in the refrigerator or throw it away in the dumpster. Because the theater is on the edge of the woods, food left out will attract vermin. There is a large dumpster outside the stage left door. Please empty your trash into the dumpster.
The Footlighters is a non-smoking facility. Smoking is only allowed outside the building.
The sinks in the dressing rooms and paint area are old and the drains are cranky. Do not wash anything down the drain that is thicker than coffee. Food or paint will clog the drains. Painting tools should be cleaned in the sink by the oil tanks, not the dressing rooms. Water must be run at a slow flow to avoid the sink backing up. The screen must remain in the sink at all times and the trap cleaned frequently.
If you are involved in construction for a show, please see the Technical Director, Construction Chief or the Production Manager(s) before purchasing new construction materials. We have a good stock of lumber and other materials backstage and under the stage. It is often possible to build much of a set from stock.
If you notice a particular area of the theater in need of special care, please contact the Facilities Manager or Assistant Facilities Manager.
Expenditures and Reimbursement
During the course of a production, it is sometimes necessary for individuals to purchase materials out of pocket. All purchases should be authorized by a Production Manager prior to purchase. A budget is approved by the Board of Directors for each production. It is the responsibility of the Production Manager(s) to monitor costs to make sure that the production stays under budget.
The Walpole Footlighters is a non-profit corporation and has a State Tax Exempt certificate. This certificate is usually required to make a purchase without paying state sales tax. We also have charge accounts with several vendors in the community. If you are required to purchase materials and you are not familiar with the vendor list or you need a copy of the State Tax Exempt certificate, please contact the Treasurer before making a purchase.
To obtain reimbursement for production-related purchases, submit a complete receipt for the purchase to a Production Manager, who will submit it for reimbursement. If approval is obtained from a Production Manager, then you may submit for reimbursement yourself by please filling out this form. An electronic copy of the receipt will be needed to submit via the form link. Receipts for operating expenses may be submitted by a member directly to the Treasurer. All receipts must indicate the purpose of the purchase. The Treasurer may refuse to reimburse sales tax when a State Tax Exempt certificate was not used. All materials reimbursed become property of the Walpole Footlighters.
Theater/Box Office Telephone Use
Box Office: 508-668-8446 to reserve tickets (voice mail line)
House: 508-668-7918 to reach someone on theater property (no voice mail)
The telephones in the theater are for incoming calls and local dialing. Outgoing calls are not permitted from the Box Office phone. Any long-distance calls made from the theater that are not related to theater business must be reimbursed to Walpole Footlighters, Inc., within thirty (30) days, pursuant to Article VII, Section 1 of the Bylaws. With everyone having a cell phone, it is not necessary to use any Playhouse phone to make outgoing calls.
Job Responsibilities
The following is a brief synopsis of various job descriptions not considered members of the Board of Directors but are essential to the operations of the Footlighters. Board of Director job descriptions can be found on the Footlighters’ website.
Operating Positions
Box Office Staff and Manager
The Box Office Staff are responsible for processing all non-subscription ticket orders throughout the season. All ticket sales are processed through box office software. The Box Office Staff are responsible for ensuring that new patrons are added to the system, that all sales records are up-to-date, and that all orders are processed correctly.
The Box Office Manager is responsible for making sure that all ticket orders are printed for the Box Office on performance nights and that the Box Office is staffed. The Box Office Manager returns all calls made to the Box Office and processes all telephone credit card orders.
Responsibilities:
The position of Box Office Manager requires computer skills and basic accounting skills.
Webmaster
The Webmaster shall
Costume Caretaker
The Costume Caretaker shall
Assistant Facilities Manager
The Assistant Facilities Manager shall
Production Positions
The following positions are filled for each production.
Director
The Director shall
Production Manager(s) (Producers)
The Production Manager(s) (the Footlighters strive to have two Production Managers for each production) shall
Set Designer
The Set Designer shall
Lighting Designer
The Lighting Designer shall
Sound Designer
The Sound Designer shall
Costume Designer
The Costume Designer shall
Construction Chief
The Construction Chief shall
Properties Chair
The Properties Chair shall
Set Dresser
The Set Dresser shall
Stage Manager(s)
The Footlighters allow for two Stage Managers – a Rehearsal SM and a Production SM. The Rehearsal SM may be called the Assistant Director. Otherwise, a single SM covers from rehearsal through to performance. The Stage Manager shall
Head Usher
The Head Usher shall
Actor
An actor shall
Revision History:
First edition: ?
Second Edition: May 1995
Third Edition: May 2001
Fourth Edition: November 2005
Fifth Edition: July 2020
Sixth Edition: July 2022
Eighth Edition: July 2023
To better acquaint you with the theater and the organization, we have compiled this Handbook. We hope that it answers many of the questions that you may have regarding your responsibilities as a member as well as the organizational structure of the theater. If you do have other questions, please contact the Member-At-Large or any Board member.
About The Theater
Did you know that the Walpole Footlighters is one of the oldest community theaters in the country?
The theater was organized in 1924 by a group fondly called “The Original Thirteen” with a production of The Dover Road in the Walpole Town Hall. In 1939, the Footlighters secured permission to use the Lewis Barn, which was located on East Street, as a theater. “The Barn” was our home for the next twenty years until 1959. With the efforts of John Goss, the generosity of Mr. Charles Sumner Bird, and the great support of many patrons, members, and friends, the warehouse on Scout Road was transformed into our present Footlighters Playhouse. We are one of the few non-professional theater groups in the country that can say, “We own our own theater!” For a more detailed history of the theater, see this link on the Footlighters website.
Theater Mission
The mission of the Walpole Footlighters is to produce quality theater on a continuing basis as an all-volunteer organization and to encourage participation from theater enthusiasts from the surrounding communities.
Member Privileges
Members enjoy many privileges, the most important of which is the right to vote for officers and on many issues that affect the organization. Paid members receive email newsletters and frequent notices detailing upcoming auditions, workshops, general meetings and social gatherings. Members are also eligible to purchase up to 4 tickets at a 50% discount and are invited to the open dress rehearsal night of each show for an evening of socializing and entertainment.
Membership Responsibilities and Participation
Anyone who wishes to be involved in the Footlighters and is over 18 or out of high school is welcome. Younger community members may participate with the permission of their parent(s) or guardian(s). Newcomers are encouraged to participate on stage and backstage. We welcome thespians of all kinds–young and old, experienced and novice.
Community theater involves a great deal of work in a variety of areas. Sets, props, costumes, sound, lighting, box office, publicity, posters, programs, and front of house staff are all essential to a production. The Footlighters also have to maintain the Playhouse.
Of course, every show requires actors. However, we often have many more people who wish to act than we have roles. The organization works because many of these people are dedicated to the theater and they participate in other areas when they are not performing. If not enough people volunteer to do the non-acting work, there will be no acting because there will be no show. All members will be called when help is needed and members are expected to help out where they can.
Everyone who participates in Footlighters activities is expected to treat the Playhouse and all who enter with respect.
Membership Dues
The Footlighters fiscal year begins in July and ends in June. Dues are paid in July for the fiscal year. Dues are not pro-rated if you join later in the year. The current dues can be found on the Footlighters website.
If you are acting in a production for the first time this season, your membership is required. Dues are monitored by the Member-At-Large during the production. You can pay your dues online.
Ticket Policies
Reserved Seating Tickets
All tickets for season productions are sold as reserved seating (meaning that the ticket holder is assigned a seat). Current ticket prices are available on our web site. There is a discount for groups of 10 or more. Production tickets purchased individually are not refundable and may not be exchanged through the Box Office. Online purchases may be exchanged online.
All tickets must be paid in advance. The Box Office will not hold tickets without payment. Payment may be made by credit card, check, or cash.
Tickets are sold through the Box Office line (508-668-8446), through the mail, or online at our web site at http://www.footlighters.com.
Season Tickets
Season tickets include reserved seats to all selected productions. Prices are less than buying individually. Check our web site for current pricing.
Season tickets for a particular performance may be exchanged for another performance date of the same show by mailing the ticket(s) to the Box Office up to one week before the production’s opening night. The new tickets will be held at the Box Office for pickup on the night of the exchange. Subscribers can also exchange tickets online if they have the ticket code.
Complimentary Ticket Policies
Anyone who works on a production backstage is entitled to one (1) complimentary ticket. Any cast member who performs at least 3 hours of technical assistance (i.e. helps the costume team; attends a build day; is a dance captain) is entitled to one (1) complimentary ticket. This ticket may be used by the person who works on the show or may be designated for someone else’s use. The ticket may be reserved through the Box Office. Online reservations must be done by the cast or crew member using the email address we have in our system. Seating is subject to availability. Ushers, ticket takers, and parking lot attendants are not eligible for a complimentary ticket; however, they may watch the performance at the discretion of the Head Usher.
Member Discounts
Paid members in good standing are eligible to purchase four (4) tickets for each production at half price. Member discount tickets can be purchased online or through the Box Office and seating is subject to availability. To get the discount, you must use the email address that we have in our system.
Governance
Board of Directors
The Walpole Footlighters is incorporated with the State of Massachusetts and is governed by a Board of Directors. The members of the Board are nominated and elected by the general membership, with the exception of the Play Selection Committee Chair, who is elected by the members of the Play Selection Committee. The Board is comprised of the following members:
President Vice President
Secretary Treasurer
Public Relations Manager Publications Manager
Facilities Manager Social Media Manager
Member-At-Large Play Selection Committee Chair
At the will of the membership, a position may be shared by two members. All Directors must be members of the Footlighters in good standing.
Board of Director Meetings
The Board of Directors meets once a month, usually at the theater, though a Zoom option is available. Meetings are published in the calendar on the Footlighters web site. They are usually the second Wednesday of the month. Any member in good standing (paid up membership) is welcome to observe a Board meeting.
Membership Activities
General Meetings
The general membership meets to conduct business up to three times a year generally in the fall, winter, and spring. Any activity that requires a vote by the membership is scheduled at these times. The membership meeting is a time for all members to discuss the business of the theater, share information, and socialize. All members are encouraged to attend. According to our bylaws, a quorum of 20% of the paid members must be present to conduct official business.
Each membership meeting begins with Board of Director reports to the membership, followed by any business that the general membership wishes to conduct. The agenda for the meeting is posted in the newsletter, emailed, or provided to the membership before the meeting.
Annual Meeting
The Annual Meeting is held each June. The purpose of the meeting is for the general membership to vote on the proposed slate of officers and committee members submitted by the Nominating Committee. At the Annual Meeting, the membership also concludes business of the Footlighters for the season. The Annual Meeting is usually an outdoor social event as well.
Fall Cleanup
Each fall, before the first show opens, a thorough cleanup of the theater is scheduled. The Vice President is responsible for planning the cleanup. All members are encouraged to help sometime during this event.
Waiver of Injury
All participants in a Footlighters event other than a social event are expected to sign a liability waiver. This waiver is required by the Board of Directors. Waivers are available from the Member-At-Large and are required of all those who are cast or working in a production. Anyone who does not sign a release waiver will not be allowed to participate in any activity on theater property.
Committees
The Walpole Footlighters has two standing committees, the Nominating Committee and the Play Selection Committee.
Nominating Committee
The Nominating Committee convenes to select a slate of potential officers. The slate is presented to the membership for election at the Annual Meeting. The Nominating Committee may also be convened if a Board member resigns and must be replaced. The chair of the Nominating Committee is the Member-At-Large. The Member at Large selects four members who are not on the Board to serve on the Committee.
Play Selection Committee
The Play Selection Committee is made up of five to seven members who are elected for rotating terms of two years. The candidates for committee members are selected by the Nominating Committee and elected by the general membership at the Annual Meeting. The committee members elect the Play Selection Committee chair from their ranks. Traditionally it is one of the continuing members of the committee.
The Play Selection Committee is responsible for reading scripts submitted by the membership and patrons, attending meetings on a regular basis, and selecting the next season. The selection of the next season is made with marketability, artistic vision, and the best interests of the theater in mind. The Board of Directors may also provide guidance to the Committee. The Committee must present the selections, with alternates, to the Board of Directors by a deadline set by the Board. Upon approval of the season by the Board of Directors, the Play Selection Committee Chair is responsible for obtaining all performance rights on behalf of the club.
The Play Selection Committee is also responsible for selecting directors for the upcoming season. The Play Selection Committee requests a notice to go out to all potential directors notifying them of the season selection and the deadline for indicating interest in directing. The Play Selection Committee may ask for a written proposal and/or request an interview with potential directors to help them make their decision. The Play Selection Committee ensures directors are confirmed and that contracts have been delivered and signed.
The Play Selection Committee additionally secures Production Managers for each production. There may be single or co-Production Managers and should ideally be secured along with the directors at the start of the season, but no later than 2 months before the first performance of that production.
The Play Selection Committee Chair acts as the liaison between the Board and the new directors until a Production Manager(s) or Stage Manager(s) is on board.
Other Committees
Other ad hoc committees may be established by the Board of Directors as needed.
Membership Representation
The general membership is represented on the Board by the Member-At-Large. If you have any question or comment that you would like to bring to the Board’s attention, please notify the Member-At-Large.
Production Tasks
The regular season productions are the Footlighters’ product and are what keeps us in business. To do this, help in many areas is essential.
Performance
All auditions are open to members and non-members. Everyone is encouraged to audition. Pre-casting is strongly discouraged. If a director has decided to pre-cast a role, it will be announced in all audition notices.
Casting is the prerogative of the director and his or her staff. Casting should reflect the best choice of acting talent appropriate to the show and the ensemble. If there are two actors of equal qualification, the director may give preference to candidates who are members in good standing or who have made previous non-acting contributions to the organization.
Everyone in the cast is required to join the Footlighters for the current season by paying membership dues.
Design
There are multiple design opportunities the season for sets, lighting, sound, properties, and costumes. If a designer has not worked with the Footlighters previously, he or she may be asked to work with one of our established designers to become familiar with the theater and the facilities that are available.
Directing
Directors are selected by the Play Selection Committee after the season has been announced. A director may be asked to submit a brief written proposal or have an interview with the committee. If a director has not worked with the Footlighters before, the Play Selection Committee may recommend that he or she act as Assistant Director with one of our established directors to become familiar with the theater and the facilities that are available, or an Assistant Director may be assign who is familiar with us.
Backstage
Well before the production opens, the Production Manager(s) recruit backstage staff (including props people, dressers, and equipment operators) and see that all production activities occur on schedule. During performances, the Stage Manager is in charge of the backstage area. There are many opportunities during each show to participate backstage. Let the current Production Manager(s) know that you are interested.
Set Strike
Set strike occurs on the Sunday following the final performance of a show. Everyone involved in a production, on and off stage, is expected to participate in set strike. Many hands make light work! Strike is called by the Production Manager(s). At the end of the strike, the theater should be ready for work on the next production to begin.
Front of House
Front of House staff includes ushers, ticket takers, parking attendants, and Box Office staff. Ushers and ticket takers also act as concessionaires during the intermission and are responsible for picking up the theater after the show is over. Front of House staff are recruited and managed by the Head Usher. Parking attendants are scheduled by the Facilities Manager. Box Office staff are arranged by the Box Office Manager to ensure coverage for each performance.
House Rules
A theater can be a dangerous place. It is important for everyone’s health and safety to keep the house in good order at all times. Tools must be kept in their assigned locations when not in use. Do not handle any equipment (tools, lights, switches, computers) unless you are familiar with it.
The Footlighters does not have a janitor on staff, so everyone needs to pitch in to keep the premises clean. Trash baskets and other waste containers must be kept in order and emptied when they are full. Food should not be left in the open; seal it and put it in the refrigerator or throw it away in the dumpster. Because the theater is on the edge of the woods, food left out will attract vermin. There is a large dumpster outside the stage left door. Please empty your trash into the dumpster.
The Footlighters is a non-smoking facility. Smoking is only allowed outside the building.
The sinks in the dressing rooms and paint area are old and the drains are cranky. Do not wash anything down the drain that is thicker than coffee. Food or paint will clog the drains. Painting tools should be cleaned in the sink by the oil tanks, not the dressing rooms. Water must be run at a slow flow to avoid the sink backing up. The screen must remain in the sink at all times and the trap cleaned frequently.
If you are involved in construction for a show, please see the Technical Director, Construction Chief or the Production Manager(s) before purchasing new construction materials. We have a good stock of lumber and other materials backstage and under the stage. It is often possible to build much of a set from stock.
If you notice a particular area of the theater in need of special care, please contact the Facilities Manager or Assistant Facilities Manager.
Expenditures and Reimbursement
During the course of a production, it is sometimes necessary for individuals to purchase materials out of pocket. All purchases should be authorized by a Production Manager prior to purchase. A budget is approved by the Board of Directors for each production. It is the responsibility of the Production Manager(s) to monitor costs to make sure that the production stays under budget.
The Walpole Footlighters is a non-profit corporation and has a State Tax Exempt certificate. This certificate is usually required to make a purchase without paying state sales tax. We also have charge accounts with several vendors in the community. If you are required to purchase materials and you are not familiar with the vendor list or you need a copy of the State Tax Exempt certificate, please contact the Treasurer before making a purchase.
To obtain reimbursement for production-related purchases, submit a complete receipt for the purchase to a Production Manager, who will submit it for reimbursement. If approval is obtained from a Production Manager, then you may submit for reimbursement yourself by please filling out this form. An electronic copy of the receipt will be needed to submit via the form link. Receipts for operating expenses may be submitted by a member directly to the Treasurer. All receipts must indicate the purpose of the purchase. The Treasurer may refuse to reimburse sales tax when a State Tax Exempt certificate was not used. All materials reimbursed become property of the Walpole Footlighters.
Theater/Box Office Telephone Use
Box Office: 508-668-8446 to reserve tickets (voice mail line)
House: 508-668-7918 to reach someone on theater property (no voice mail)
The telephones in the theater are for incoming calls and local dialing. Outgoing calls are not permitted from the Box Office phone. Any long-distance calls made from the theater that are not related to theater business must be reimbursed to Walpole Footlighters, Inc., within thirty (30) days, pursuant to Article VII, Section 1 of the Bylaws. With everyone having a cell phone, it is not necessary to use any Playhouse phone to make outgoing calls.
Job Responsibilities
The following is a brief synopsis of various job descriptions not considered members of the Board of Directors but are essential to the operations of the Footlighters. Board of Director job descriptions can be found on the Footlighters’ website.
Operating Positions
Box Office Staff and Manager
The Box Office Staff are responsible for processing all non-subscription ticket orders throughout the season. All ticket sales are processed through box office software. The Box Office Staff are responsible for ensuring that new patrons are added to the system, that all sales records are up-to-date, and that all orders are processed correctly.
The Box Office Manager is responsible for making sure that all ticket orders are printed for the Box Office on performance nights and that the Box Office is staffed. The Box Office Manager returns all calls made to the Box Office and processes all telephone credit card orders.
Responsibilities:
- To ensure that the ticketing system is ready for the start of the season
- To process all orders for reserved seating tickets for each production
- To keep the outgoing message on the box office line up-to-date
- To process all credit card transactions for reserved ticket orders
- To respond to all box office inquiries
- To make edits or otherwise keep the database updated as new information is obtained
The position of Box Office Manager requires computer skills and basic accounting skills.
Webmaster
The Webmaster shall
- Administer and update the Footlighters web site on a timely basis
- Evaluate hosting services and third-party tools
- Be responsible for testing the site on a regular basis
- Provide site and log reports to the Board when requested
- Be responsible for the overall design and site map
Costume Caretaker
The Costume Caretaker shall
- Maintain the costume loft in good order
- Oversee the return of all costumes to their proper places
- Receive all costume donations and determine usefulness
Assistant Facilities Manager
The Assistant Facilities Manager shall
- Maintain and keep the grounds in good order by acting as the liaison with the landscaping contractor
- Ensure plowing is done as needed for rehearsals and performances
- Ensure front of house supplies are stocked for the rest rooms
- Remove recycling from the building
Production Positions
The following positions are filled for each production.
Director
The Director shall
- Be responsible for the artistic vision of the production
- Cast the show from those who audition
- Ensure rehearsals are scheduled for the entire production
- Work with the Production Manager(s) to fill all production positions
- Monitor the production budget with the Production Manager(s)
- Work with the Publicity Manager to provide information or schedule media appearances and photography
Production Manager(s) (Producers)
The Production Manager(s) (the Footlighters strive to have two Production Managers for each production) shall
- Ensure all items on the Production Checklist are addressed, some of which are:
- Be responsible for the production budget
- Approve all production expenses and submit receipts to the Treasurer
- Fill all necessary production positions including Head Usher
- Secure waiver of injury forms from all people involved with the production
- Schedule work days and ensure that volunteers are notified of needs
- Serve as the “project manager(s)” for the production
- Coordinate the wrap party
Set Designer
The Set Designer shall
- Acquire an understanding of the theater's building stock as a consideration in developing a set design
- Acquire an understanding of stage dimensions and limitations for input to the set design
- Work with the Director and the Lighting Designer to produce an appropriate set design
- Work with the Construction Chief to achieve the design
Lighting Designer
The Lighting Designer shall
- Work with the Set Designer and the Director to achieve an appropriate lighting design
- Supervise hanging and focusing of lights
- Program all lighting cues and effects
- Attend all technical rehearsals
- Train lighting technicians in the lighting plot for the production
- Work out a schedule with lighting technicians for rehearsals and performances
- Familiarize the light crew with emergency lighting
- Notify Technical Director of any questionable wiring/plugs for replacement
Sound Designer
The Sound Designer shall
- Work with the Director to achieve an appropriate sound design
- Coordinate with the sound engineer for musicals
- Program all sound cues
- Attend all technical rehearsals
- Train sound technicians in the sound plot for the production
- Work out a schedule with sound technicians for rehearsals and performances
- Prepare and educate cast on proper mic use
- Notify sound engineer of any issues with sound equipment
Costume Designer
The Costume Designer shall
- Thoroughly research the clothing of the time period for the show being produced
- Work with the Director to achieve the Director’s vision in a costume plot
- Costume the cast from the existing stock in the costume loft or by purchasing items within the production budget as needed
- Wash/iron costumes as appropriate (such as before each show weekend)
- Attend rehearsals as needed to ensure costumes are appropriate and that costume needs are addressed
- Attend productions as appropriate to make emergency adjustments or repairs
- Collect costumes directly after the last performance and have them appropriately cleaned prior to storage in the costume loft
Construction Chief
The Construction Chief shall
- Supervise the construction of the set, in accordance with the plan provided by the Set Designer and Director
- Set up a schedule for construction of the set
- Work with the Production Manager(s) to plan the schedule and obtain volunteers for set construction
- Procure necessary materials for construction according to budget
- Supervise strike and ensure all materials are recycled if possible
Properties Chair
The Properties Chair shall
- Work with the director and Production Manager(s) to achieve period-appropriate props for the production
- Establish a props plot
- Work with the props committee to identify props from stock that are appropriate or to build or purchase items within the production budget
- Be responsible for the props table
- Schedule props crew and/or stagehands to work all technical rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and performances
- Return all props to their proper locations or owners at the close of the production
Set Dresser
The Set Dresser shall
- Work with the director and Production Manager(s) to achieve the desired set dressing for the production
- Work with the Production Manager(s) and director to identify set dressing from stock or purchase items that are appropriate as needed
- Complete set dressing prior technical rehearsal
- Return all set dressing to their proper locations or owners at the close of the production
Stage Manager(s)
The Footlighters allow for two Stage Managers – a Rehearsal SM and a Production SM. The Rehearsal SM may be called the Assistant Director. Otherwise, a single SM covers from rehearsal through to performance. The Stage Manager shall
- As requested, act as the Assistant Director during rehearsals.
- Be responsible for the actors in keeping them informed and supporting them as needed.
- Provide a complete cast list to the Secretary, the Publicity Manager, and the Publications Manager
- Produce reports on rehearsals and performances to cast and staff
- Be responsible for all aspects of performance during technical and dress rehearsals and performances
- Instruct all cast and crew in the location and use of fire extinguishers and the location of all emergency exits
Head Usher
The Head Usher shall
- Schedule ushers and ticket taker to cover each night of a production
- Ensure that the lobby runs smoothly during the production
- See that all patrons are satisfactorily seated
- Ensure adequate stock and arrange refreshments for intermission
- With the ushers, pick up trash from the house and lobby after the performance
- Know where all the fire extinguishers and emergency exits are
- Communicate with the Stage Manager as needed to advise on lobby conditions
Actor
An actor shall
- Attend all rehearsals punctually
- Be off book by the date specified by the Director or sooner
- Police the theater for trash and keep dressing rooms in order during rehearsals
- Be responsible for personal costuming (washing, ironing, minor repairs)
- Provide costume basics (clothing not supplied by the costumer)
- Provide and apply personal hair and makeup unless otherwise specified
- Be responsible for all personal hand props during rehearsals and production
- Participate in set strike
Revision History:
First edition: ?
Second Edition: May 1995
Third Edition: May 2001
Fourth Edition: November 2005
Fifth Edition: July 2020
Sixth Edition: July 2022
Eighth Edition: July 2023