Frequently Asked Questions

Explore answers to some of our most common questions below, or contact someone via the email addresses provided at the bottom of the page.

  • Can everyone audition for everything? When, where and how do I audition?
    Musical Theatre Majors are required to audition for all shows; Theatre Majors are required to audition for all shows except the musical but are encouraged to do so if they wish. All audition timeslots are posted on the main callboard, just sign up for a time. It is important to note that auditions always start the Sunday before classes start. So, sign up early!
  • Where is the callboard and why does everyone keep reminding me to check it daily?
    The main callboard is located outside the Theatre offices (next to the box office) on the main floor in the UTC It is very important to check the board daily because any and all information about shows, classes, meetings, fittings, etc. is posted here for your viewing. It is your responsibility to stay informed.
  • What is the difference between the U.T.C. and the P.C.?
    The University Theatre Center (UTC) is the older building where both the Erica Starr & Showcase Theatre are. The Performing Arts Center (PAC) is the new facility conjoined with the U.TC. Many theater classes take place here, but it is also shared with the Dance Program and the School of Music.
  • What exactly is Crew? Which one am I on? When and where does it meet?
    Crew is divided into three areas: tech, costumes, & management. It is a practical lab in your chosen crew, where you work arranged hours, to put up shows. The most important thing to do is look for the first crew meeting sign on any call board. The meeting will meet in the Erica Starr Theatre. At that meeting you will be connected with your area of emphasis and explained the requirements for that particular crew.
  • What is Gala and what do I have to do for it?
    Gala is our annual scholarship fundraiser. All Theatre and Musical Theatre Majors are required to participate. There will be a meeting to go over specifics within the first two weeks of school. Look for a notice on the callboard.
  • If I am directing or acting scenes, how do I reserve a space or check out props for my scene?
    All venues in both facilities require reservation; contact the Production Coordinator, Bill Thomas, at 936.294.4963 for reservations. Small hand props that you can't find may be checked out through the Technical Theatre Coordinator, Craig Brossman at 936.294.4422.
  • Is there a place I can hang out to wait between classes or for a rehearsal?
    Yes, the UTC Greenroom is located on the first floor between the Erica Starr and the Showcase Theatres. This is a student space that you can use to relax, study, eat, sleep, etc.
  • Can I eat or drink in the performance spaces?
    No, all venues in both the UTC and PAC have strict no food or drink policies. You are welcome to eat in the Greenroom.
  • How late can I rehearse my scene in the building?
    Once you've reserved a space, you may be in the building until midnight, but everyone must vacate both buildings by midnight. The doors will automatically lock by 11:00pm. Do not prop open any exterior door.
  • Can I use U.I.L. set pieces for my scene?
    Yes, there are U.I.L. set pieces in the UTC Rehearsal Room for the Showcase and in the back of the Erica Starr. They are only for their respective spaces. All U.T.C. and P.C. rehearsal spaces have their own set pieces for work. Please do not move set pieces, pianos, chairs, etc. from room to room.
  • What do I do if I can't find a script?
    The Newton Gresham Library has many scripts on their shelves. Also, the UTC has a small script library from which you may check scripts out through Bill Thomas.
  • If I don't get cast, are there other things I can do?
    Absolutely. There are two different student theater organizations that you can get involved with. The first is Alpha Psi Omeg They have regularly scheduled meetings, just look for signs. There is also U.S.I.T.T., which is a technical theater organization that meets regularly. Both Alpha Psi and U.S.I.T.T. welcome all Musical Theatre and Theatre Majors regardless of their emphasis. You can also talk to different directors about dramaturgy. There are many slots to Assistant Stage Manage. There is Experimental Theater through Alpha Psi Omeg And finally, just go help out at any of the three crews.

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Department of Theatre & Musical Theatre
Box 2297, Sam Houston State University, Huntsville, TX 77341-2297
Phone: (936) 294-1329 | E-mail: theatre@shsu.edu