Renaissance Performing Arts Association
- Performer, 1-3 years ago
In my experience, it was messy, but in the most fun way, and I will definitely go back. REHEARSALS: They were pretty efficient at running rehearsals, specifically the MD. We never had to stay longer if the MD realized we simply weren't need, and she was really good about scheduling so that we wouldn't be called if we weren't needed. There were hardly ever any last minute added rehearsals. The ensemble is usually filled out with locals, if you're doing the summer show expect a youth ensemble and theatre-lovers who perform for a hobby. However, there are some really great PROFESSIONAL local talent from all over Ohio & Michigan, and they are usually cast in leads (both because they are talented but let's be honest cheaper to hire) so do not expect to come in and have tons of NYC based folks. There was some considerable amount of drama with the orchestra and tech crew (as the tech crew are genuinely high school students and once again local theatre lovers minus the lighting, set, and stage management team. I ALWAYS FELT SAFE & THE WORKING CONDITIONS WERE AEA STANDARD WITH BREAKS) Things were very tense tech week, but I genuinely think it was a one-off thing. Tensions were high and the company had a lot riding on our production but it really had nothing to do with the cast at all. Just normal summer stock drama. Overall, I think everyone wanted to just have a really great show, and we did. It all came together. HOUSING: You'll get two options. Either living in the apartments that the company has which are quite nice or living with a family in either their spare room, or in their upper floor which is comparable to a mini-apartment. Living with strangers in their home obviously has its downsides, as the lack of space, and feeling weird about coming and going, but it also has the perks because genuinely the people who host you are so extremely nice. They even invited me for dinner once and it was were so sweet. The downside is usually it's pretty far from the theatre and they didn't have a company car, so unless you had another cast mate in your host house you have to find your own transportation to the theatre (wasn't an issue because I became quick friends with my cast mates.) If you live in the apartments, you're downtown and like a 5 minute walk from the theatre. MANSFIELD: In the summertime, it's actually so fun. They do this even called "Final Friday's" and it's basically a big street festival where everyone gets drunk. It's downtown and literally right outside the theatre so those Friday's were the best when we didn't have Saturday morning rehearsals(or even if we did YOLO). Lots of great hiking spots, the library is extremely nice if you're a reader or craving some quiet. The food is also really good in the downtown area. Downside is planet fitness, Walmart, Starbucks, and all of that is pretty far if you don't have access to a vehicle. PAY: On the low end, around 1400 for 8 weeks, so like 200 a week all paid at the end. They did pay for my travel which was nice. I've heard that pay has gotten a little better, I just did a terrible job at negotiating for myself. Definitely ask if you can get a per diem, that will help you foot your day to day bills/bartab/coffee/snack fund. Overall, super welcoming community. They are always excited to welcome Guest Artist. I loved my time here. And if you have the pleasure of working here, TELL LINDA THANK YOU ALWAYS BECAUSE SHE'S AN ANGEL AND WASHES YOUR STINKY CLOTHES! Go have fun, work hard, and absolutely kiss your bartenders.
Anonymous - 10/11/2024