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 to follow this Code of Ethics:
 
 

The Show Must Go On! I will never miss a rehearsal or performance. I shall 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 shall never miss an entrance or cause a curtain to be late by my failure to be ready. I shall forego all social activities which interfere with rehearsals and will always be on time. I shall never leave the theatre building or stage area until I have completed my rehearsal or performance. I shall 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 shall 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 shall 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 shall 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 shall 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 shall never lose my enthusiasm for the theatre because of disappointment or failure for they are the lessons by which I learn. I will observe the smoking/no smoking areas as designated. I am aware that the Theatre Callboard is our official channel of communication and will be fully responsible for any and all information posted thereon. I will meet all deadlines and responsibilities as assigned. I will avoid behavior that is detrimental to the well-being and reputation of the Forest Roberts Theatre, its students and faculty. I shall look upon my participation in a production as an educational experience and will attend the critique. I will attend the strike and carry out all duties assigned by my supervisor(s) to the best of my ability. I shall 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!"

I realize that the following behavior is unprofessional and will result in my being dismissed from the cast or crew:

One unexcused absence from a scheduled rehearsal or crew call.
Three unexcused latenesses for scheduled rehearsals or crew calls.
Possession, use or abuse of drugs or alcohol on the premises of the Forest Roberts Theatre.
Stealing, defacing, or destroying personal or university property, including costumes, props, etc.
A major violation of the Forest Roberts Theatre Code of Ethics.
I accept the responsibility as a company member to monitor the above behavior and, if necessary, to report a breach of conduct immediately to the Director and/or a Theatre Faculty person, who are the only ones who can dismiss a cast or crew member.