Frequently Asked Questions

Rehearsals

What should I do if I have to miss a rehearsal?

Please check in with someone in your cast about what you missed. It is the performer’s responsibility to find out what material was covered and to learn it. Please note that the director, choreographer, and musical director may not be available to reteach items from previous rehearsals.



How many rehearsals can I miss?

Missing rehearsals for vacations, doctor’s appointments, illness, work and the like are considered excused absences. Families should make these conflicts known one week to 48 hours ahead of time. Any absence that is not relayed to the stage manager within the 48 hour limit will be considered unexcused. Students with three or more unexcused absences may lose out on front row spots or other additional opportunities.



What should I bring to rehearsal?

On the rehearsal schedule is a list of what supplies are needed for each rehearsal. Students should always bring water, a snack if they are there for an extended period of time, pencils, and any materials related to the show.



Where are rehearsals held?

Manchester Essex Regional High School Auditorium.



Program Questions

How does this program work?

Manchester Summerstage is a nonprofit organization that seeks to provide opportunities in the arts for the youth of Manchester. It is run by a Board of Directors who oversee the program and make hiring decisions about the creative team.



Where can I find more information?

Please visit manchestersummerstage.org, our Facebook page (@manchestersummerstage), or our Instagram (@summerstageofficial). Here you’ll find contact information, more information about past performances, goals of the program, and updated schedules and deadlines.



What are the expectations of the program?

At rehearsals, students will be expected to begin work at the time listed on the schedule. Please arrive early to include time to transition into rehearsal. Students should wear appropriate clothing and shoes for dancing and moving. Students should be prepared to work at rehearsal. This includes listening and following directions. If asked to prepare anything, participants should have the material ready.



How can I help?

Families can participate in many ways which will be laid out at the parent informational meeting. Examples include ticket sales, costuming and make-up, set design, Fourth of July parade, concessions, flowers, etc. Please contact us for more info.



What other expenses might come up?

We try to keep costs minimal. Families will be expected to provide a base costume, information on this will be provided. Show t-shirts, Keepsake Books & video of the show are included in the tuition cost. ​



How much is tuition?

The participation fee for Manchester Summerstage is $300, which includes participation in 8 weeks of rehearsals and 4 shows, a well wisher ad for the show program, a show video, a show t-shirt, and keepsake book. Most lead costumes will be provided. A base costume will be expected from participants (usually leggings and a t-shirt).



What are the goals of the program?

The current board wants to educate students in the many facets of putting on performances. This includes teaching not only acting, singing, and dancing to those children who want to be onstage, but also training students in music, art, sound, lighting, costuming, etc. for those that are more comfortable behind the scenes, in the pit, or in the lighting booth.



Who is on the Board of Directors?

Wendy Sullivan is the President, Nancy Klebart is the Treasurer, Len Gambale is the Vice President, Carolyn Vendt is the Secretary, and Wendy Blackman is a Member at Large. Tyler Garofalo is the Artistic Director as well as an Ex-Officio Board Member.



Performance Questions

What will be available for purchase at the show?

Concessions, flowers, and t-shirts will be for sale at the show. They will be sold at intermission and after the show.



When are the show dates?

The show will always be performed the last full weekend of July, with three evening performances and one matinee.



How much are tickets?

Adult tickets are $12. Tickets for children aged 12 and younger and seniors are $8.



How can I purchase tickets?

Tickets will be available starting in July. They can be purchased at rehearsals or at the door, as well as at various locations in the community during special events.