I Can't Stand Censorship in Community Theatre

For over forty years, I have been performing and directing in community theatre, and one thing has been a real concern to me…censorship of a published work.

I guess for me; it is about presenting the piece as it was written for the stage. By not doing this, you are not giving an audience the real product as it was meant to be. I was involved in a production of The Full Monty, and we did THE FULL MONTY at the end of the show. Audiences loved it! You do need to have the right lighting effects in order to pull this off, of course. But we did, and it went off without a hitch.

When allowed to direct it for another theatre company possibly, I asked if they would be going all the way. Their answer was, “No.” That cemented my answer for that opportunity.

Community TheatreChristopher PetersonJuly 24, 2024Timothy Fitzgerald

What Community Theatre Gave to Me

“I am what I am…a community theatre performer and director and proud of it.”

Community TheatreOnStage Blog StaffJuly 10, 2024Timothy Fitzgerald, Guest Editorial

"Why Wasn't I Cast?" - Some Advice

How many times have you thought, “I should have gotten that role!” after the casting has been announced and your name is not on the list? How do you handle that news?

AuditionsOnStage Blog StaffJune 26, 2024Timothy Fitzgerald

The Volunteers of Community Theatre Deserve an Endless Ovation

Many of us work full-time jobs, what I refer to as a vocation to support our avocations. I can’t tell you how many times people ask me after seeing a show or hearing I am in a show, “How much do you get paid for doing this?” Of course, in community theatre, the answer is nothing. The look of surprise on their faces is astounding.

Community TheatreChristopher PetersonApril 14, 2024Timothy Fitzgerald

Please Stop Looking Down on Community Theatre

“Having been involved in community theatre for over 40 years…yes, I admit it and do it proudly….I have personally seen this wonderful genre from multiple sides. As an actor, producer, stage manager, director….I have seen it. And the benefits that have been reaped have contributed to many aspects of my life, socially and privately.”

Community TheatreOnStage Blog StaffMarch 16, 2024Timothy Fitzgerald, Guest Editorial

A Review is Only One Person’s Opinion

Having been performing for over 40 years, I have learned that the most important thing about doing a show is the appreciation shown by the audiences. Did they like the show? What was their take on the production? I also appreciate the constructive critiques they may offer. Then we have…the reviewer. The person who many people use as their go-to person for advice on should they or shouldn’t they see a show. The person who potentially has the power to make or break a show.

ObservationsChristopher PetersonApril 25, 2019Timothy Fitzgerald

The Devil Wears Prada…The Musical! That’s All….

It’s one of my favorite films. And now it’s going to be presented on stage in a musical format with music by Sir Elton John, lyrics by Shaina Taub, and book by Paul Rudnick.

And just announced, Steppenwolf Theatre Company Artistic Director Anna D. Shapiro, a 2008 Tony winner for her direction of August: Osage County, has been named as the director.

BroadwayChristopher PetersonMarch 14, 2019Timothy Fitzgerald

OOPS…Britney Spears’s Music In A New Broadway Musical!!! Really???

Now I am not one to judge before a product is released and reviewed but this just feels wrong. I am personally not a big fan of Spears but there is just something about a musical with her music coming to Broadway. I will be the first to admit I was wrong if it turns out to be a hit. It seems we are starting to see a trend of musicals coming out with the music of popular artist.

Broadway, New YorkChristopher PetersonMarch 13, 2019Timothy Fitzgerald

Take The Time To Say Thank You to Your Fans

Recently, Chris Peterson, the Editor-In-Chief of OnStage Blog, wrote about meeting actors whom we respect and admire and the effect that it had on them. In digesting the article, I wanted to weigh in on this subject and maybe give it some more food for thought.

Personally, I have had the opportunity to meet some celebrities after a show either at the stage door or, on a few special occasions, in their dressing rooms. My expectations were based on my admiration for their work in theatre, TV and/or film. And I was ready to be humbled at the opportunity to meet them.

ObservationsChristopher PetersonMarch 10, 2019Timothy Fitzgerald

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