Code of Ethics

Part of the great tradition of the theatre is a code of ethics which belongs to all who work on the legitimate stage. This code reflects an attitude toward craftsmanship, a respect for associates, and a dedication toward the audience. It outlines a self-discipline which, far from robbing one of individuality, increases personal self-esteem and dignity through cooperation and common purpose. All those who participate in Forest Roberts Theatre activities are expected and required to adhere to this Code of Ethics:

• The Show Must Go On!  I will never miss a rehearsal or a performance.
• I will play every rehearsal and performance to the best of my ability, regardless of how small my role or large my personal problems.
• I will respect my audience regardless of size or station.
• I will never miss an entrance or cause a curtain to be late by my failure to be ready.
• I will forego all social activities which interfere with rehearsals and will always be on time.
• I will l never leave the theatre building or stage area until I have completed my rehearsal or performance.
• I will remember that my aim is to create illusion, therefore, I will not destroy that illusion by appearing in costume and make-up off stage or outside of the theatre.
• I will not allow the comments of friends, relatives or critics to change any phase of my work without proper authorization. I will not alter lines, business, lights, properties, settings, costumes or any phase of the production without consultation with and permission from the director.
• I will accept the director's advice in the spirit in which it is given for he sees the production as a whole and my role as a portion thereof.
• I will look upon the production as a collective effort demanding my demands of the play.
• I will be patient and avoid temperamental outburst, for they create tension and serve no useful purpose.
• I will respect the play and the playwright, remembering that "A work of art is not a work of art until it is finished."
• I will accept artistic responsibility and shall never blame my co-workers or inanimate objects for my own failure.
• I will never engage in caustic criticism of another artist's work from jealousy or an urge to increase my own prestige.
• I will inspire the public to respect me and my craft through graciousness in accepting both praise and constructive criticism.
• I will use the set, stage properties and costumes with care, knowing they are tools of my craft and a vital part of the production.
• I will observe backstage courtesy and shall comport myself in strict compliance with the rules and regulations of the Forest Roberts Theatre.
• I will never lose my enthusiasm for the theatre because of disappointment or failure for they are the lessons by which I learn.
• I will direct my efforts in such a manner that when I leave, the theatre will stand as a greater institution for my having labored there.
• I will follow Stanislavski's admonition to "love the art in yourself, not yourself in art!"