Pan Theater | 2135 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94612 | ph: 415 724-
FAQ -
What is a troupe?
Answer:
A troupe is a group of performers that work together on an ongoing basis to develop and further individual and group performing skills. Troupes members perform in Pan Theater improv shows such as: Imagination Unleashed and Dramedy and Comma.
What are the time requirements of a troupe?
Answer:
Potential troupe members should be able to commit to between three to four rehearsals a month and additional time for scheduled performances. Rehearsals are three hours long and cover basic skills, long form technique and acting technique for improvisers.
Why would I join a troupe rather than taking a class?
Answer:
Troupe members are interested in pursuing and practicing improvisational theater
on an ongoing basis rather than for a set class. Troupe members have an interest
in performing or working on their skills in a small group format. Troupes members
have regular and ongoing performing opportunities. Or, more simply-
Do I need to have improv training prior to auditioning?
Answer:
No, but it does help. We usually have troupes of varying skill levels and often times give beginners with a sincere interest in doing the work a chance. We also give those that audition but aren't ready for joining a troupe discounts on our Improv Basics class.
Do you accept people that have trained at places other than Pan Theater?
Answer:
Yes. Current troupe members have trained at Improv Boston, Improv Asylum, Second City, Improv Olympics, BATs, and SFSU and UC Berekely Theater departments.
How long before I perform?
Answer:
It usually takes between about ten weeks for those in our Intro Troupe. For those admitted to our Short Form, or Long Form troupes it is about the same time. Those admitted to Awkward Face, or the Afters usually perform sooner, but it is at the discretion of the troupe director with input from those in the troupe.
Why do you charge dues?
Answer:
Dues support the our shows, advertising expenses, management and organizational costs
and theater rental. Most professional improv theater charge dues of varying levels
including: Groundlings, Second City and L.A. Connection. No one is getting rich
from troupe dues. The majority of those directing and teaching in Pan are volunteers.
Who are you guys?
Answer:
We are a group of people with a sincere interest in theater-
Is this fun?
Answer:
Yes, most of our troupe members have been with Pan Theater for several years. Members have fun, improve their skills and are part of a supportive and growing artistic community. We often have post show events and members often meet outside of rehearsals to attend shows, see scripted work or hang out. Pan Theater provides a supportive place to practice, learn and perform theater.
What is the style of a rehearsal?
Answer:
Rehearsals provide a safe and supportive environment for taking risks, improving your skills and learning new improv and acting techniques. Each troupe director has their own style and focus based on their interest and prior training. We believe the arts are best practiced in a safe space that encourages risk taking, personal development and growth over time.
Do I have to be funny?
Answer:
It helps, but no. The best humor comes from following the scene and supporting your partner. The connections that arrive through the improvisational process create the humor. Also, not all scenes will be "funny". A good improvised scene can be emotional and dramatic. The best shows have a mix of funny scenes and dramatic scenes.
What is the audition process?
Answer:
You improvise with either current troupe members or other potential troupe members. It is a relaxed, fun and low key event. We usually require callbacks for those interested in joining an advanced troupe (initial audition and final audition). We notify those that audition within a week of auditioning. Auditions for new troupes/beginning troupes are usually a single audition process with a final screening audition after the first performance.
I'm an experienced performer-
Answer:
You are looking for a place to perform, a community of performers and an opportunity to explore your skills with like minded people. Pan Theater provides opportunities for performing, directing, having plays read and having them produced.
I am a director or playwright-
Answer:
Long form work is especially useful for those interested in directing and writing. The work provides the opportunity to practice, learn and evolve your understanding of what makes a strong scene. Pan Theater also provides opportunities for directors and writers to direct and produce. All of our troupe directors started as members of our performing troupes.
For additional questions please use this link: pantheater@comcast.net audition questions
Comedy improv troupe auditions FAQS
