College Summer Theatres: Operation and Administration. Repertory vs. Stock.

A resident college summer theatre can choose between the stock or the repertory forms of production scheduling. In stock, plays are rehearsed and presented in consecutive order, one each week. In repertory, a few plays are presented on a "night-about" rotation basis. Bases for selecting one form over the other include location, type of available audience, experience of the acting company, and technical advantages or disadvantages involved with lighting, costumes, scenery, and properties. From the standpoint of both the quality of direction and the actor's preparation, the repertory method holds certain advantages. Rehearsals are somewhat more leisurely and relaxed, which serves the director's production goals and facilitates actors' learning of the roles. In addition, once the three or four shows have opened, the actors no longer have to be in rehearsal but instead can work on perfecting their performances. (RN)