Court Theatre

"Court Theatre has a fascinating history of post-play discussions that allows the theatre attendee to learn new insight into the production they just witnessed. Captivating in what the attendee will learn, and lush in its comprehension of the piece, the actors, directors, and crew will share their insight of the production."

- Eunice Burns "The San Francisco Chronicle"

Audience Questions

Remind the audience to speak into the microphone so the actors on stage and the rest of the audience can hear them clearly.W
When using a hand-held mike, never surrender control of it to an audience member, as you will loose control of the discussion. The microphone should be placed directly in front of people’s mouths, but if you must hand it off to someone (such as someone seated in the middle of a crowded row), ask for it to be returned to you immediately following the question).
Be prepared to repeat the audience questions and refocus them when necessary, especially if it is an awkwardly confrontational statement or a vaguely worded question.
Take the lead in deciding when to have the assisting usher hand the microphone to an audience member for a question.
While taking audience questions, make sure to not stand in the aisle or in a place that will block any patrons’ view of the stage, kneeling in the aisle if necessary.
Begin wrapping up the discussion after fifteen minutes by calling for one more question.

Administrative Tips

Send a memo out to the theatre staff to review the logistics of the event at least a week before and then follow up with a reminder (see sample memo below).
Inserts containing the guest and facilitator’s biographical information can be created as program stuffers to advertise the discussion.
Signs in the lobby inviting audience members to stay for the discussion will help to boost attendance. Consult the production stage manager regarding pre or post-show announcements, as these need to be coordinated with pre or post-show music cues.

Preparation

Before the show or during intermission, check in with the house manager to clarify how you will get a microphone and meet any members of the house staff who will assist in fielding questions from the audience. It is always best to have two microphones in the house – one for you and one for an usher to hold for audience members. As soon as the final curtain is down, take a position at the lip of the stage in the house where you can be seen by the audience. Once the aisles are clear, encourage people to move down front into free seats. By this point, you should make eye contact with the sound technician in the booth or in the rear mezzanine to have the microphone turned on. Do not wait for the actors to arrive on stage to start the discussion. It is better to start speaking as soon as you have a live microphone so that you can retain the attention of the audience and “warm them up” for the actors.

Suggested Introduction

“Good Afternoon. My name is (your name). I am (your position) with Roundabout’s production of (show title). I’m delighted to welcome you to today’s discussion. (Name of participating usher) will be helping me facilitate your questions. In a few moments, a few members of our cast will be joining us. Before they arrive, I’ll be happy to address any questions you may have about this play or this production. Please raise your hand, so I may bring the microphone to you so everyone will be able to hear. Who has a question?” As actors appear on stage, greet them and announce their name and character name to the audience. Keep track of time from the moment the first actor appears on stage, and do your best to keep the discussion within a twenty-minute time block. Be prepared with your own questions for the actors to keep the discussion moving.

Wrapping Up

When it’s time to end, don’t allow another question. Instead, follow the last actor’s comment with: “I’m afraid we’re out of time. Please help me in thanking our cast members who have graciously donated their time here today” and then start the applause. When possible, thank the actors directly as they leave the stage, and act as gatekeeper to overzealous autograph seekers. Linger at the lip of the stage as the audience exits to field any additional questions audience members have on their way out.