Frequently Asked Questions
When does NRT perform?
NRT performs almost every weekend of the academic year, Friday and Saturday at 8pm in 111 Forum (unless otherwise noted).
What kind of theatre do you perform?
We do lots of different things, from classical works like Shakespeare to modern comedies like All in the Timing. We host improv shows, sketch shows, student-written full length plays, special theater events – our schedule is often just as diverse as our membership!
Yeah, but do you do *~*MUSICALS*~*?
We try have one smaller-scale musical on our schedule each semester. Recently we have done shows like “South Park: Bigger, Longer & Uncut,” “The Last 5 Years,” and “Little Shop of Horrors.” Not to sell ourselves out or anything, but if you’re REALLY into musicals, you can look into Thespians – they are good friends of ours that do a main-stage musical each a semester.
If your shows are free, how do you make the big bucks?
The University Park Allocation Committee (UPAC) gives us a small portion raised from the student activity fee, but it is rarely enough. We rely very heavily on donations, which are collected at the show. We also accept donations from afar (*cough* alumni *cough*), and you can donate by contacting Paul Them, our treasurer.
Who can audition for NRT?
Literally anyone! We have students from all majors, both theater and otherwise, participate in all aspects of NRT. We also have faculty and alumni, as well as State College citizens perform in our shows! We are very much an inclusive community theater operation. People with varying degrees of experience are welcome as well.
How often are auditions?
We hold auditions twice every semester; once at the beginning, for the shows in the second half of that semester, and once at the end, for the shows in the first half of the next semester.
How do auditions work?
Auditions are usually held in one week, from Sunday to Tuesday, 6-9pm in a room on campus, with callbacks on Thursday. Audition material is provided at the audition and nothing is required to be memorized, though prepared monologues from another work are welcome. Actors will audition in front of all the directors for the block of shows being auditioned. Cast lists go out via e-mail late Thursday night.
What if I don’t like acting?
No problem! We are always looking for extra hands. Please contact our Tech Chairs, or show up to a general meeting, to find out how to help with tech, lights, or costumes!
What if I don’t like actors?
Can’t help you there.
What if I want to direct?
To become a director, you must first assistant direct one show, tech for one show, and have been an active member for one semester. To tech or become an assistant director, please come to a general meeting or to the show selection meeting held near the end of every semester to find a director who would like your help.
Is there a listserv or something I can join to get more information?
Sure! Just send a blank e-mail to l-nrt-info-subscribe-request@lists.psu.edu . You can leave the subject and text blank, since the computer doesn’t care about you. Or if that’s too complicated, just email our PR Chair (kym5192@psu.edu) and she’ll get you on. To unsubscribe, send a blank e-mail to l-nrt-info-unsubscribe-request@lists.psu.edu . It’s okay, we understand.
What is your favorite television show?
Collectively? Probably “How I Met Your Mother.”
