SET CONSTRUCTION: If you can wield a hammer or handle power tools, then we can use you to help with set construction. Due to the limitations of the Playhouse (there is no wing or fly space to store set changes), almost all of our productions use a single unit set – usually a living room or some other interior space - which is built on stage during the five week “dark” period between shows. Most of the work takes place during the day when the actors aren’t rehearsing onstage and the amount of time involved is flexible.

Of course, if you have past theater experience and training in SET DESIGN, we want to talk to you too. A set designer is the person who, after reading the script, meets with the director to discuss the needs of the play and the “look” the director has in mind. Then the designer draws the floor plan to scale keeping in mind the dimensions and limitations of the Playhouse stage. Set designers usually include the details on how to construct the set and the materials required.

SET DRESSING/ SCENIC ARTISTS: All sets need basic painting (easy) and those with artistic ability can paint the details (harder). Since most of our sets are interior spaces, they need to be “dressed” to look like real rooms. This includes furniture, accessories, wall décor, etc. etc. Sort of like interior design only with an eye toward the audience and the demands of the play. Because our storage space is so limited, this job can call for some good “people skills” as we frequently need to beg, borrow or steal (just sometimes!) items. Consignment America on Rt 776 has been a good friend to the Playhouse and will loan us furniture, etc. as will other used furniture businesses and individuals when asked nicely.

COSTUMES/ PROPS BUILD: You may be an experienced seamstress, a crafts person or just have a creative flair. Costuming requirements vary a great deal depending on the show. At LBP, costumes may be pulled from wardrobe and volunteers help alter or adapt them but some need to be created. Props are the items used onstage during a production. Some have to be built but sometimes a props person can get on the telephone and find a source to loan an unusual item. LBP has a prop room where many items are warehoused and can be dusted off or refurbished.

SOUND: Volunteers are needed who can assemble sound effects and music for a show. The Internet is a great source. Once the sound is designed, a SOUND BOARD / LIGHT BOARD OPERATOR runs the board during the show. We can train you to do this and you can sign up for as many performances as you can fit into your schedule. We also need people to assist in hanging and focusing our (antiquated) lighting instruments. If you have any experience in theater lighting design, please talk to us!

STAGE MANAGEMENT: This is the job for people who really love theater and understand it takes commitment to work on a show. It’s also a good way to learn more about directing because you see up close how the director creates a show. The stage manager attends most rehearsals and makes notations in a prompt book about all the blocking moves the actors are given. The SM is “on book,” providing lines to the actors when they put down their scripts and begin to memorize their parts and the SM is in charge during the run of the show. He or she also makes sure that all communications are shared among the cast, set crew, costumes, director, publicity and everyone else. Being well organized is a must and a sense of humor helps a lot!