The foundation of ACTF is production response. Effective theater is assessed by its ability to involve audiences in an experience that is both stimulating and illuminating, which emphasizes the spoken word; physical interpretation of the text; genuine emotions; and relationships between characters. Schools wishing to participate in ACTF enter at least one production for response.

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Simply put, a Production Response is an opportunity for a visiting faculty member to attend a performance and participate in a dialogue after the show about the production and it’s process.

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Before You Go

• Select a production you would like to respond to; then reach out to the Response Coordinator at region1responses@gmail.com.

• You will be put in contact with the director or school coordinator.

• Confirm with them the date and time of the production you would like to attend. 

• If needed, ask if the host school can arrange and pay for lodging.

• It is customary for the host school to invite you to dinner before the show. This is a great time to speak to the director to gain any insight on the production before you view.  If dinner is not available, a quick conversation with the director before the performance may prove useful. 

 

At the Response

• Aim for a 45 minute response

• Feel free to refer to and use our Respondent Quick Guide (Link)

• Respect, support, and celebrate the work the company has done in your response.

• DON’T – talk about how you directed or would have directed the production.

• DO – make the response session a conversation about the work by asking open-ended questions as well as inviting the company to ask you questions in return.

• Remind the company about the dates and location of the Regional Festival, and encourage all to attend regardless of whether or not their work is selected for presentation.

 

After the Response

• Discuss the Irene Ryan and Musical Theatre nomination(s) with the director of the production. The director and respondent may nominate up to two Irene Ryan students for an associate production, or three for a participating production if they are truly exceptional. The director and respondent may nominate up to one Musical Theatre student per musical production.

• The director and respondent may nominate up to 2 Irene Ryan students for an Associate production, or 3 for a Participating production. Up to 1 musical theatre student per musical production may be nominated.

• Discuss with the director any merit awards

• Submit your production response form – (Airtable link)

• Submit for reimbursement – (Airtable link)

• A thank you note to the host school is a nice courtesy.