Q: How do I become a performer in a Sumter Players (SPI) production?

Ans: Attend an open audition. SPI productions are cast only after publicly announced auditions. Personal notice of a scheduled audition can be given upon request. An e-mail to will do.

Q: Describe an audition.

Ans: A typical audition consists of cold reading excerpts from the play being cast, usually with other auditioners or members of the production staff. Musical auditions may include singing from the play being cast or a number familiar to you, scales and musical exercises. Piano accompaniment is provided, but personal accompanists are welcome.

Q: Are performers paid?

Ans: No. SPI is a non-professional theater company with no paid personnel.

Q: Are there dues to participate?

Ans: No. Participation on or backstage is free. SPI revenue comes from ticket sales and donations.

Q: Are free or discounted tickets available to the cast?

Ans: Yes. Each member of a cast and crew will receive, on request, one (1) free ticket to the production. In addition, each member of a cast and crew may purchase any number of additional tickets at a 20% discount. Free and discounted tickets are not available from the theatre box office, but must be purchased direct from Sumter Players.

Q: What about costumes?

Ans: SPI maintains an extensive costume inventory and supplements it to meet production requirements. While some performers prefer to furnish their own clothing, that is not necessary.

Q: How are casting decisions made?

Ans: All artistic decisions, including casting, are made by the production director chosen by the SPI Board. Casting is done without regard to race, color, religion, ethnicity or any other defining characteristic.

Q: When are rehearsals?

Ans: Rehearsal schedules are set by the production director, usually after consultation with the cast. A typical schedule is Sunday-Thursday evenings for 5 to 6 weeks prior to performance.

Q: What if I want to direct?

Ans: Make your desire known by any means at your disposal. An e-mail to is a good way. Directors are selected for specific productions by the SPI Board.

Q: How are productions financed?

Ans: All production expenses are paid by SPI within a budget established by the SPI Board upon consideration of the production requirements of the Director. SPI has a sizeable inventory of set pieces and properties and accepts donations and loans of items needed for particular productions.