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The terms 'regional theater' and 'resident theater' exclusively denote professional theater companies operating outside of New York City.
Answer: False
Explanation: While commonly designating professional theaters outside New York City, the core definition of regional or resident theater refers to any professional or semi-professional company producing its own seasons, regardless of location. The exclusivity to outside New York City is not absolute.
Regional theaters primarily serve as venues for established Broadway shows to tour.
Answer: False
Explanation: While some regional theaters may host touring productions, their primary function is typically to produce their own seasons, often including new works and plays not originating on Broadway. They may also serve as developmental spaces for Broadway-bound shows.
The Little Theatre Movement emerged in the late 20th century, aiming to emulate Broadway's commercial success.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Little Theatre Movement originated in the early 20th century, not the late 20th. Its primary aim was to diverge from, rather than emulate, Broadway's commercialism by fostering experimentation and artistic integrity.
The Little Theatre Movement is considered a precursor to the Regional Theater Movement.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Little Theatre Movement's emphasis on artistic experimentation and alternative theatrical approaches laid significant groundwork and is widely regarded as a crucial precursor to the subsequent development of the Regional Theater Movement.
The term 'playhouse' is often used synonymously with commercial movie theaters.
Answer: False
Explanation: In the context of American theater, 'playhouse' typically refers to a venue for live dramatic performances, most commonly a regional or resident theater, rather than a commercial movie theater.
Unionization is a mandatory requirement for a theater to be classified as a regional theater.
Answer: False
Explanation: A theater's classification as regional or resident is based on its production model (producing its own seasons), not on whether it is unionized. Regional theaters may operate under union contracts or as non-union entities.
The Little Theatre Movement aimed to broaden the appeal of mainstream Broadway productions.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Little Theatre Movement sought to move away from the commercialism and perceived conservatism of mainstream Broadway, focusing instead on artistic experimentation and alternative theatrical forms.
The Little Theatre Movement fostered experimentation and the exploration of social issues, paving the way for regional theater.
Answer: True
Explanation: By championing artistic innovation and addressing social themes, the Little Theatre Movement created a fertile ground and established precedents that significantly influenced and paved the way for the subsequent development of regional theater.
'Resident theater' is an alternative term for regional theater in the United States.
Answer: True
Explanation: The terms 'regional theater' and 'resident theater' are frequently used interchangeably in the United States to describe professional theater companies that produce their own seasons.
The definition of 'regional theater' strictly applies only to theaters located outside of New York City.
Answer: False
Explanation: While 'regional theater' commonly refers to professional companies outside New York City, the fundamental definition pertains to any professional or semi-professional theater company that produces its own seasons, irrespective of its precise geographic location within the U.S.
What is the primary definition of regional theater in the United States?
Answer: A professional or semi-professional theater company that produces its own seasons.
Explanation: The core definition of regional or resident theater in the U.S. centers on a company's practice of producing its own distinct repertoire of plays throughout a season, distinguishing it from venues that primarily host touring shows.
What was the main goal of the Little Theatre Movement?
Answer: To move away from the mainstream and conservative ideologies of Broadway.
Explanation: The Little Theatre Movement emerged as a reaction against the perceived commercialism and conservatism of Broadway, aiming to foster artistic experimentation and explore new theatrical forms and ideas.
How did the Little Theatre Movement influence the American stage?
Answer: It served as a precursor to regional theater, encouraging experimentation and social commentary.
Explanation: The Little Theatre Movement's emphasis on artistic innovation and social relevance significantly altered the American theatrical landscape, paving the way for the development and acceptance of regional theater.
The term 'playhouse' in American theater often specifically refers to:
Answer: A regional or resident theater.
Explanation: Within the American theatrical context, 'playhouse' is frequently used as a specific designation for a regional or resident theater venue.
What historical theatrical movement preceded and influenced the Regional Theater Movement?
Answer: The Little Theatre Movement
Explanation: The Little Theatre Movement, with its emphasis on artistic experimentation and challenging conventional theater, is widely recognized as a significant precursor and influence on the subsequent development of the Regional Theater Movement.
What is the primary objective of the Little Theatre Movement?
Answer: To foster experimentation and move away from mainstream theater.
Explanation: The Little Theatre Movement aimed to challenge the prevailing norms of mainstream theater by promoting artistic experimentation, exploring new dramatic forms, and fostering a more avant-garde approach to production.
What does the term 'resident theater' signify in the U.S. context?
Answer: An alternative term for regional theater, referring to a company producing its own seasons.
Explanation: In the United States, 'resident theater' is commonly used as a synonym for regional theater, denoting a professional or semi-professional company that produces its own repertoire of plays.
The Little Theatre Movement, emerging in the early 20th century, primarily aimed to:
Answer: Challenge the established norms and conservatism of Broadway.
Explanation: The Little Theatre Movement was fundamentally driven by a desire to break away from the commercialism and perceived artistic limitations of Broadway, advocating for greater experimentation and thematic exploration.
Regional theaters typically focus on producing plays with immediate commercial appeal, similar to Broadway.
Answer: False
Explanation: Conversely, regional theaters often prioritize new works, experimental pieces, or plays with less immediate commercial viability than Broadway productions, allowing for greater artistic exploration.
A loyal audience base allows regional theaters to take fewer artistic risks.
Answer: False
Explanation: A stable audience base often provides regional theaters with the financial flexibility and confidence to undertake greater artistic risks, including the production of challenging or less conventional works.
Critics have praised regional theaters for consistently programming challenging and avant-garde works.
Answer: False
Explanation: While many regional theaters are lauded for their innovative programming, some face criticism for potentially programming more conservatively to satisfy subscriber bases and donors, rather than consistently pursuing avant-garde works.
The Alley Theatre and La Jolla Playhouse are noted for their work in developing new plays.
Answer: True
Explanation: The Alley Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, and numerous other prominent regional theaters are recognized for their significant contributions to the development of new theatrical works.
A common goal for regional theaters developing new plays is to transfer them to Broadway.
Answer: True
Explanation: Many regional theaters serve as crucial incubators for new plays, with a frequent objective being the successful transfer of these productions to commercial venues like Broadway.
An 'out-of-town tryout' is a process where Broadway shows are finalized before their New York premiere.
Answer: True
Explanation: Regional theaters frequently serve as venues for 'out-of-town tryouts,' where productions intended for Broadway are refined and tested with audiences before their official New York opening.
How does the programming of regional theaters typically contrast with Broadway productions?
Answer: Regional theaters often stage new or less commercially viable works, allowing for greater artistic freedom.
Explanation: Unlike Broadway, which often requires guaranteed commercial appeal, regional theaters frequently engage with new, experimental, or less commercially proven works, fostering artistic diversity and innovation.
What benefit does a loyal audience base provide to regional theaters?
Answer: It allows them the flexibility to take artistic risks and stage experimental works.
Explanation: A dedicated audience provides a degree of financial stability, empowering regional theaters to pursue more adventurous programming and artistic risks that might not be feasible in a purely commercial environment.
What role do some regional theaters play in the lifecycle of Broadway shows?
Answer: They serve as venues for developing and testing new shows before their Broadway premiere ('out-of-town tryouts').
Explanation: Regional theaters often function as critical developmental spaces, hosting 'out-of-town tryouts' where Broadway-bound productions undergo refinement and testing prior to their official New York opening.
What criticism has been leveled against some regional theaters regarding their programming choices?
Answer: They may select conservative programming to please subscribers and donors.
Explanation: Due to their reliance on donations and subscriptions, some regional theaters face criticism for potentially prioritizing programming that appeals broadly to their existing audience and donor base, sometimes at the expense of more challenging artistic choices.
Which of the following theaters is recognized for developing new plays?
Answer: Berkeley Repertory Theatre
Explanation: Berkeley Repertory Theatre is among the many distinguished regional theaters known for their significant contributions to the development and premiere of new theatrical works.
What is a primary objective for regional theaters focused on developing new theatrical works?
Answer: To transfer successful productions to Broadway for broader commercial success.
Explanation: A key objective for regional theaters engaged in new play development is often to nurture works that may eventually achieve commercial success and wider exposure through transfer to Broadway or other major venues.
What does the term 'out-of-town tryout' specifically refer to in the context of regional theater?
Answer: A practice where shows are tested in regional theaters before a Broadway opening.
Explanation: An 'out-of-town tryout' specifically denotes the practice wherein a theatrical production, often destined for Broadway, undergoes testing and refinement in regional theaters prior to its official New York premiere.
What is the significance of 'out-of-town tryouts' hosted by regional theaters?
Answer: They allow shows to be refined before their official Broadway opening.
Explanation: Regional theaters often serve as crucial testing grounds for Broadway-bound productions through 'out-of-town tryouts,' enabling necessary adjustments and refinements before the show's official premiere in New York.
What distinguishes the programming focus of many regional theaters from Broadway?
Answer: Regional theaters often prioritize new works and experimental pieces over guaranteed commercial hits.
Explanation: A key distinction lies in programming: regional theaters frequently champion new plays and experimental works, whereas Broadway often leans towards productions with a higher degree of commercial certainty.
Most regional theaters operate using only a single, large main stage.
Answer: False
Explanation: Many regional theaters utilize multiple performance spaces, including main stages for larger productions and smaller venues like studio theaters or black box theaters for more intimate or experimental works.
Financial support for regional theaters comes solely from ticket sales and individual donations.
Answer: False
Explanation: Regional theaters typically rely on a diversified funding model that includes ticket sales, individual donations, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and government funding.
Regional theaters generally do not engage in educational activities or outreach.
Answer: False
Explanation: A significant aspect of many regional theaters' mission involves community engagement through educational programs, workshops, and outreach initiatives designed to foster theater appreciation and participation.
Partnerships between regional theaters and university theater programs are uncommon.
Answer: False
Explanation: Collaborative relationships between regional theaters and university theater programs are quite common, often involving joint training conservatories, internships, and shared artistic resources.
Nonprofit regional theaters face significant pressure to achieve commercial success due to their funding model.
Answer: False
Explanation: While nonprofit theaters rely on diverse funding, including donations and grants, they generally face less direct pressure for commercial success compared to for-profit entities. However, reliance on donations can sometimes lead to programming decisions influenced by donor preferences.
'Black box theaters' are typically used for large-scale, traditional productions in regional theater complexes.
Answer: False
Explanation: Black box theaters are characterized by their flexible, open space and are typically employed for smaller, more intimate, or experimental productions, rather than large-scale traditional ones.
Which statement best describes the typical stage facilities in regional theaters?
Answer: They often feature multiple stages, including main stages and smaller spaces like black box theaters.
Explanation: Regional theater complexes frequently incorporate diverse performance spaces, ranging from substantial main stages to more adaptable black box theaters, accommodating various production scales and styles.
Besides ticket sales, what are major sources of financial support for regional theaters?
Answer: Donations, season subscriptions, and foundation/government grants.
Explanation: Regional theaters typically sustain their operations through a combination of earned revenue (ticket sales) and contributed income, which includes individual donations, corporate sponsorships, foundation grants, and public funding.
How do many regional theaters attempt to engage younger audiences?
Answer: Through educational outreach programs.
Explanation: Educational outreach initiatives are a common strategy employed by regional theaters to cultivate interest and engagement among younger demographics, fostering future theater patrons and participants.
What type of collaboration is common between regional theaters and universities?
Answer: Cooperative programs, like actor training conservatories.
Explanation: Synergistic partnerships between regional theaters and university theater departments are frequent, often manifesting as integrated actor training programs, internships, and collaborative artistic projects.
Why might nonprofit regional theaters face accusations of 'pandering to the audience'?
Answer: Their reliance on donations might influence artistic choices to please donors.
Explanation: The dependence on donations and subscriptions can create pressure for nonprofit regional theaters to select programming that aligns with the perceived preferences of their patrons and donors, potentially leading to accusations of compromising artistic integrity.
What advantage do nonprofit regional theaters generally have over commercial theaters?
Answer: Less pressure regarding commercial success.
Explanation: As nonprofit entities, regional theaters are typically less beholden to immediate commercial demands than their for-profit counterparts, allowing for a greater focus on artistic mission and diverse programming.
Which type of stage is often used for smaller, more experimental performances in regional theaters?
Answer: A black box theater
Explanation: Black box theaters, characterized by their adaptable, open configuration, are frequently utilized in regional theater settings for smaller, more intimate, or experimental productions due to their flexibility.
How might the funding model of nonprofit regional theaters potentially influence their programming?
Answer: It might lead them to select programming that appeals broadly to donors and subscribers.
Explanation: The reliance on donations and subscriptions can incentivize nonprofit regional theaters to program works that are perceived as broadly appealing to their donor base and subscriber audience, potentially influencing artistic decisions.
Which statement accurately reflects the financial structure of many regional theaters?
Answer: They rely heavily on donations, subscriptions, and grants in addition to ticket revenue.
Explanation: The financial model for most nonprofit regional theaters is multifaceted, incorporating earned income from ticket sales alongside significant contributions from individual donors, season subscribers, foundations, and governmental grants.
What is a 'black box theater' typically used for in a regional theater setting?
Answer: Experimental or smaller, more intimate productions.
Explanation: Black box theaters, known for their flexible configurations, are commonly utilized in regional theater for experimental works or smaller productions that benefit from an intimate performance environment.
The League of Resident Theatres (LORT) and the Actors' Equity Association are the two main organizations supporting resident theaters.
Answer: False
Explanation: LORT is a primary representative body for resident theaters, and Actors' Equity Association is the union representing actors and stage managers. The Theatre Communications Group (TCG) is another major organization supporting resident theaters, focusing on advocacy and resource dissemination.
LORT primarily focuses on artistic programming and directing the creative vision of its member theaters.
Answer: False
Explanation: LORT's primary function is to represent its member theaters in collective bargaining with unions and to advocate on labor relations issues, rather than dictating artistic programming or creative direction.
There are currently 74 LORT theaters operating across 29 states and the District of Columbia.
Answer: True
Explanation: The League of Resident Theatres (LORT) comprises 74 member theaters distributed across 29 states and the District of Columbia, representing a significant network of professional theater companies.
The Theatre Communications Group (TCG) has a limited membership, consisting of only about 50 theaters.
Answer: False
Explanation: The Theatre Communications Group (TCG) has a broad constituency, encompassing over 700 member theaters nationwide, reflecting its extensive reach in supporting the American theater field.
The Theatre Communications Group (TCG) publishes 'American Theatre Magazine' and the employment bulletin 'ARTSEARCH'.
Answer: True
Explanation: TCG provides valuable resources to the theater community, including its publication 'American Theatre Magazine' and the essential employment resource 'ARTSEARCH'.
LORT negotiates contracts with playwrights' associations.
Answer: False
Explanation: LORT's primary role in labor relations involves negotiating contracts with theatrical unions such as Actors' Equity Association, United Scenic Artists, and the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, not directly with playwrights' associations.
The membership of the Theatre Communications Group (TCG) has remained static since its inception.
Answer: False
Explanation: TCG's membership has experienced significant growth over time, expanding from its initial base to encompass over 700 member theaters across the United States.
Which two organizations are highlighted as major supporters of resident theaters in the U.S.?
Answer: The League of Resident Theatres (LORT) and Theatre Communications Group (TCG)
Explanation: LORT and TCG are identified as the principal organizations dedicated to supporting and advancing the interests of resident theaters throughout the United States.
What is a key function of the League of Resident Theatres (LORT)?
Answer: Representing member theaters in collective bargaining with unions.
Explanation: A primary function of LORT is to act as the collective bargaining representative for its member theaters in negotiations with various theatrical unions, ensuring standardized labor practices.
How many states currently host LORT member theaters?
Answer: 29
Explanation: LORT member theaters are geographically distributed across 29 states, in addition to the District of Columbia, indicating a widespread presence of professional resident theater companies throughout the nation.
What is the approximate number of member theaters within the Theatre Communications Group (TCG)?
Answer: Over 700
Explanation: The Theatre Communications Group (TCG) serves a broad network, comprising more than 700 member theaters across the United States, underscoring its significant role in the national theater ecosystem.
Which publication is NOT listed as being provided by the Theatre Communications Group (TCG)?
Answer: Playbill
Explanation: While TCG provides resources such as 'American Theatre Magazine,' the 'ARTSEARCH' bulletin, and disseminates dramatic literature, 'Playbill' is a distinct publication primarily associated with Broadway and commercial theater programs.
Which of the following is an example of a LORT member theater?
Answer: The Guthrie Theater
Explanation: The Guthrie Theater, located in Minneapolis, is a prominent member of the League of Resident Theatres (LORT), signifying its status within the network of major U.S. regional theaters.
What is the primary function of the Theatre Communications Group (TCG)?
Answer: To support resident theaters and disseminate information.
Explanation: TCG's mission is to advance the work of resident theaters by providing support, resources, and information dissemination, including publications and networking opportunities.
Which of the following is NOT a union with which LORT engages in collective bargaining?
Answer: Writers Guild of America
Explanation: LORT engages in collective bargaining with unions representing actors, stage managers, designers, and directors. The Writers Guild of America represents playwrights and screenwriters and is not typically among the unions with which LORT negotiates.
What does the League of Resident Theatres (LORT) do regarding labor relations?
Answer: It represents member theaters in collective bargaining with unions.
Explanation: LORT serves as the collective bargaining agent for its member theaters, negotiating labor agreements with various theatrical unions to establish terms and conditions for artists and stage employees.
The Theatre Communications Group (TCG) has a membership that:
Answer: Has grown to encompass over 700 member theaters nationwide.
Explanation: The Theatre Communications Group (TCG) represents a substantial network, comprising more than 700 member theaters across the United States, reflecting its broad support for the national theater community.
What is a key resource provided by the Theatre Communications Group (TCG)?
Answer: The online employment bulletin 'ARTSEARCH'
Explanation: The Theatre Communications Group (TCG) provides essential resources to the theater community, including the widely utilized online employment bulletin 'ARTSEARCH,' which aids professionals in finding opportunities.
What does LORT stand for, and what is its primary role?
Answer: League of Resident Theatres; represents theaters in labor negotiations.
Explanation: LORT stands for the League of Resident Theatres, and its primary role involves representing its member theaters in collective bargaining and labor negotiations with various theatrical unions.
Time magazine recognized the significant contribution of regional theaters to U.S. theater culture in 2003.
Answer: True
Explanation: In 2003, Time magazine published an acknowledgment of the substantial role regional theaters play in enriching the cultural landscape of American theater.
The American Theatre Wing presents a Regional Theatre Tony Award annually.
Answer: True
Explanation: The American Theatre Wing annually bestows the Regional Theatre Tony Award, recognizing the outstanding contributions of a distinguished regional theater to the broader theatrical landscape.
The Tony Awards committee directly selects the recipient of the Regional Theatre Tony Award.
Answer: False
Explanation: The selection process involves recommendations from the American Theatre Critics Association, which then informs the decision-making process for the Regional Theatre Tony Award, rather than direct selection by the main Tony Awards committee.
The grant awarded with the Regional Theatre Tony Award is valued at $25,000.
Answer: True
Explanation: The prestigious Regional Theatre Tony Award is accompanied by a grant of $25,000, providing significant financial support to the recognized institution.
The number of regional theaters in the U.S. grew from approximately 23 in 1961 to about 1,800 by 2003.
Answer: True
Explanation: This period witnessed a dramatic expansion in the U.S. regional theater sector, growing from a nascent stage with 23 theaters in 1961 to a robust network of approximately 1,800 by 2003.
The American Theatre Critics Association recommends theaters for the Regional Theatre Tony Award.
Answer: True
Explanation: The American Theatre Critics Association plays a crucial role by recommending candidates for the prestigious Regional Theatre Tony Award, contributing to the selection process.
The number of regional theaters in the U.S. saw a decline between 1961 and 2003.
Answer: False
Explanation: Contrary to a decline, the period between 1961 and 2003 witnessed a substantial growth in the number of regional theaters across the United States, increasing from 23 to approximately 1,800.
In 2003, what significant recognition did regional theaters receive?
Answer: An acknowledgment from Time magazine for enriching U.S. theater culture.
Explanation: Time magazine acknowledged the profound impact and cultural enrichment provided by regional theaters in 2003, highlighting their vital role in the American arts landscape.
Who is responsible for recommending the recipient of the Regional Theatre Tony Award?
Answer: The American Theatre Critics Association
Explanation: The American Theatre Critics Association plays a vital role in the selection process by recommending candidate theaters for the prestigious Regional Theatre Tony Award.
What significant growth occurred in the number of U.S. regional theaters between 1961 and 2003?
Answer: A dramatic increase from 23 to approximately 1800.
Explanation: The period from 1961 to 2003 saw an exponential rise in the number of regional theaters in the U.S., growing from a mere 23 to an estimated 1,800 companies.
What is the monetary value of the grant associated with the Regional Theatre Tony Award?
Answer: $25,000
Explanation: The Regional Theatre Tony Award is accompanied by a significant grant of $25,000, providing financial support to the honored institution.
Which organization is responsible for recommending the recipient of the Regional Theatre Tony Award?
Answer: The American Theatre Critics Association
Explanation: The American Theatre Critics Association plays a key role in the selection process by recommending candidate theaters for the Regional Theatre Tony Award.
The American Theatre Wing annually honors a distinguished regional theater with:
Answer: The Regional Theatre Tony Award
Explanation: The American Theatre Wing annually bestows the Regional Theatre Tony Award to recognize and celebrate the significant contributions of a distinguished regional theater company.
Which group recommends candidates for the Regional Theatre Tony Award?
Answer: The American Theatre Critics Association
Explanation: The American Theatre Critics Association plays a crucial role by recommending potential recipients for the Regional Theatre Tony Award, contributing significantly to the selection process.
The growth of regional theater in the U.S. from 1961 to 2003 represents:
Answer: A dramatic expansion in the number of regional theater companies.
Explanation: The period between 1961 and 2003 marked a substantial expansion of the regional theater sector in the United States, with the number of companies growing exponentially.