Erica Cole
Dan F. Long Middle School
Theater

Eligibility

The State of Texas has an Eligibility Law called “No Pass/No Play.” All students involved in extra curricular and co-curricular activities are required to have a passing grade of 70 for all subjects in order to participate in competitions and contest. A single failing grade in any class on report cards and designated progress reports will deny you the privilege of performing with the theater group. Your grades have a direct influence on every other student in the play. This problem can devastate all of our hard work, both individually and as a production team. The teamwork needed for a successful performance is based on the responsibility of each student to pass his/her classes. Here are a couple of hints in order to stay eligible:

Do all of your homework and turn it in on time! The incredible fact is the majority of ineligibles fail simply because they do not complete their work. A single zero on any assignment can cause your overall grade to drop drastically.

Do not be afraid to ask for help! Check with your teachers to find out when tutorials sessions are available. Every teacher at Long is willing to help any student willing to put forth the effort.

Rehearsal Conduct

Rehearsal time is extremely valuable.  The director's) high expectations of performance levels require that every rehearsal minute be utilized to its fullest. Only through quality rehearsal time in class and after school can quality performance be achieved.

Theater Guidelines – Rehearsals on stage:

1. NO GUM, FOOD or DRINKS are allowed on the stage area or in the classroom. (Closed water bottles are accepted offstage. Please DO NOT place water bottles on the prop tables.)
2. Store all belongings on Stage Left, Stage Right or on the cafeteria tables. Be sure these belongings are not in areas designated for props and set pieces.
3. Costumes and Props are to be treated with respect at all times and placed in their designated areas (neatly hung on hangers, etc.) following tech rehearsals and performances.
4. No defacing of school or other’s property.
5. All rehearsals are “closed.” Only cast and crew may attend rehearsals (unless prior arrangements have been made with the director.)

Conduct Expectations:

1. Follow directions the first time given. We must maintain theater safety at all times.
2. Don’t miss your cue. –Be on time.
3. Know your lines and follows directions the first time given. –Listen and complete your work.
4. Bring your props and rehearsal attire. – Always have your supplies. You will need in
5. EVERY REHEARSAL a PENCIL and your SCRIPT!!!!
6. No upstaging allowed. –Be courteous to one another and work together (collaboratively).
7. Keep up the energy and stay positive!! –Be prepared and give your best!

Consequences:

MAKE YOUR DAY WILL BE OBSERVED DURING REHEARSAL

Rehearsals and Performances

Performances are the tangible outcome of the hard work and effort of the students and director's). The only outcome sought is that of excellence. When performing, students should always remember that they represent our school and community and should behave accordingly.

Performance Guidelines:

1. Be on time
2. Be courteous and polite
3. Thank those that offer support and assistance
4. Maintain a performance atmosphere at all times
5. Ride buses in a mature manner. No shouting, standing or switching seats, especially when the bus is in motion. (Stay out of the aisles when the bus is in motion.)

Performance and Rehearsal Policy

Rehearsal schedules will be sent home upon casting each performance. Attached to each schedule will be a “conflict form.” All conflicts must be shared with the director(s) so that rehearsal time can be scheduled accordingly.

1. Conflicts/Appointments must be shared with the director as soon as possible. Please return the “Conflict form” or you may email or send a handwritten note to notify the director in advance.
2. In case of illness and/or family emergency, the parents should contact the director as soon as they are aware that the situation exists. You may call the theater room and leave a message or you may follow up with a written note. This is the only category where absences will be excused the same day or after the event.

Rehearsal and Event Dress

The Long Theater department takes great pride in projecting professional, uniformed appearance at all rehearsals and theater events.

Special Events/UIL One-Act Play:

Students are to wear comfortable pants and show shirt  during the day of the UIL One-Act Play Competition. Students will also be asked to bring a “dressy” change of clothing for the awards ceremony following the competition. More information will follow closer to the competition date.

 Only students enrolled or will be enrolled in a theater class are eligible to attend theater banquet. Guest must be cleared by Ms. Cole

Auditions

 All students enrolled in a theater class are eligible to audition for the UIL One Act Play.

All students may audition for the Spring show.

The primary objective of each student at school should be to obtain the highest quality overall education possible. Academic performance and success fall hand in hand with theatrical success. Long takes pride in knowing that the theater students are among the highest achieving students in the school and are also among the most active in other organizations. Education research has shown that students involved in extra curricular activities perform at a consistently higher academic level!

Students must be academically eligible for performance in these top-performing groups. A student ineligible cannot participate in the performance and their role will be assigned to another student.

Communication is the Key!

The Long Theater Department wants to keep the students and parents informed! In addition to this handbook, we provide calendars and notes home. With the completion of the theater website, you will be able to access these materials online as well as communicate with the director(s).

 Pertinent information sheets will be sent home with each student at least one week prior to any major event. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call or email the director(s).

Thank you for your support!

Vivian Field Theater Arts Personal Information Page

Please complete the form below in its entirety

Please return all forms by Tuesday, Sept. 1st.

(Student) Last Name: ________________________ First: _____________________

School ID # __________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________________________

City: __________________________________________ Zip: ____________________

Phone: _____________________    Email (Student): _________________________

(Parent) Last Name: __________________________ First: ___________________

Parent’s Cell: (Mom) __________________________ (Dad): ___________________

Email: (Mom) ________________________________  (Dad): ___________________

Work Numbers: ________________________________________________________

Handbook Acknowledgement

I have been provided a copy of the Long Theater Handbook. My student and I have discussed the handbook and understand the policies and guidelines stated therein.

___________________________________              ______________

Parent Signature                                                    Date

___________________________________              ______________

Student Signature                                                  Date

___________________________________              ______________

Student Name Printed                                          Class Period