<p>EmmyBet–Yes, I agree that $3500 for 11 weeks is very reasonable. It’s just that we couldn’t afford it. I wish we could, because the Shakespeare Theatre is excellent, and as stagemum says, equity. If you performed, even as an extra, you could possibly get EMC points, depending on the theatre’s particular agreement with you. And of course, it’s an excellent learning opportunity.</p>
<p>TheRealKVP–I went to MSU back in the 1980s! Unfortunately, I wasn’t knowledgable about theatre and so never went to any shows in Lansing. But it’s cool that’s where you’re from. </p>
<p>Yes, I’ve heard of the Jeff’s–very prestigious. It’s interesting how rules and ‘classifications’ change state to state. Chicago certainly has an awesome theatre scene. I think that’s a great idea, to call it ‘non-equity;’ I think the sort of theatres you are referring to would be called "professional’ or ‘semi-professional’ here in South Jersey/Philly. “Community theatre,” at least in South Jersey, is generally non-paying, although many fine actors & stage people still can win the NJ Perry Award for outstanding productions at community theatres. But I’ve heard NJ has better funding and support than some states. Although in this economy, who knows…</p>