<p>By the way, I"m intrigued by TheREALKEVP’s question about what exactly constitutes ‘professional’ theatre. Here in South Jersey/Philly area, it’s actually fairly clear: I don’t know of any professional theatres that don’t pay. Equity theatres of course pay equity rates based on their classification. Then there are professional theatres that accept equity actors on occasion. Philly has the Barrymore Award, which is a respected award for professional theatres, equity and non-equity; if you want to be considered, you must pay your actors a minimum of $75/week including rehearsals. A step lower are semi-professionals, those that pay a modest stipend, eg $500 for the whole run. A step lower are those bordering on community theatres, that pay a very modest stipend, eg $150/run. And then there are community theatres, and they pay nothing. Community theatres can be well respected too. In NJ we have the Perry Awards, for community theatres regardless of pay. YOu have to have a minimum number of runs to qualify. </p>
<p>NJ’s theatre scene is robust. But it is not that difficult to land a role in a non-paid community theatre, although you can be excellent in the role. Thus, what I said above about the Shakespeare Theatre, which is equity. It is very well regarded, and hence an apprenticeship there is well regarded.</p>
<p>I’m curious if all this is different in different states. And if my impressions of NJ theatre are correct–maybe this is just South Jersey/Philly? What is your experience in your state? I realize I’m changing the topic a bit…</p>