Volunteer Code of Conduct

Anderson’s Mainstage Theatre
Code of Conduct
Guidelines for Actors, Crew, Volunteers, and Staff

Respect • Responsibility • Collaboration • Excellence

Section I: Principles of Inclusion

Anderson’s Mainstage Theatre is committed to fostering an inclusive environment in which all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. Discrimination, harassment, or exclusion based on race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, political ideology, disability, or any other personal characteristic will not be tolerated.

All participants are expected to contribute to a welcoming, supportive, and collaborative artistic community.

Section II: Conduct and Substance Policy

The use of alcohol, tobacco products, vaping devices, or illicit substances is strictly prohibited within theatre premises during rehearsals, performances, and official production activities.

All participants are expected to arrive at rehearsals and performances unimpaired and capable of safely participating in production activities. Violations of this policy may result in removal from the production or other disciplinary action.

Note: At select sanctioned events outside the regular season, limited alcohol consumption may be permitted. When representing the theatre, participants are expected to behave responsibly and professionally at all times.

Section III: Respect for Personal Boundaries

All physical interactions—whether onstage or off—must be conducted with professionalism, consent, and respect.

Participants should be mindful of personal boundaries and avoid unnecessary physical contact. Any physical interaction required for staging, choreography, or performance must be supervised by the Director, Stage Manager, or appropriate production staff and conducted in an age-appropriate and professional manner.

Inappropriate or unwanted comments, gestures, or physical contact are strictly prohibited. Any participant experiencing persistent unwanted behavior should report it promptly to the Director, Producer, Stage Manager, or a member of the Mainstage Theatre Board.

Special care must be taken when minors are involved in productions. Adult participants should maintain professional boundaries at all times.

Section IV: Attendance and Access Protocols

Consistent attendance and punctuality are essential to the success of any production. Participants must communicate absences directly to the designated production contact (Director, Stage Manager, or Producer). Public group messages or social media posts may not reach the production team in a timely manner and should not be relied upon.

Access to rehearsal spaces, backstage areas, and production facilities is restricted to verified cast, crew, staff, and authorized board or committee members. Unauthorized individuals should be politely escorted out of these areas.

If a key or access code is issued for temporary use during a production, it must be returned when the need for access ends. All electronic lock codes, passwords, and security information must remain confidential.

Section V: Artistic and Operational Integrity

The Director is responsible for the artistic vision of the production and retains final authority regarding staging, performance direction, and artistic decisions.

Cast members should not provide unsolicited performance notes or direction to fellow performers unless specifically requested by the Director or production leadership.

Production departments—including costumes, props, lighting, sound, and set—must coordinate with the Director and production team when making adjustments that impact staging or design.

Maintaining a respectful and collaborative creative process is essential to a successful production.

Section VI: Stewardship of Production Assets

All participants share responsibility for protecting the theatre’s property and production materials.

Costumes

  • Wear only approved garments for the production.

  • Do not alter costumes without consultation with the costume designer or production staff.

  • Hang and store costumes properly after use.

  • Report any damage immediately to the Stage Manager or costume team.

Props

  • Handle only the props assigned to you.

  • Keep props in their designated locations.

  • Do not place personal items or beverages on prop tables or performance furniture.

  • Report damaged or missing props immediately to the Stage Manager or Prop Master.

Set

  • Handle set pieces carefully and only during rehearsed scenes or as directed by production staff.

  • Report any damage or unsafe conditions involving set pieces immediately to the Stage Manager.

Audience members, family members, and visitors are not permitted on stage or near set elements.

Backstage and House Areas

  • Maintain a clean and orderly environment.

  • Do not leave open food containers in the theatre to prevent pest issues.

  • Limit noise during rehearsals; absolute silence is required backstage during performances.

  • Lighting, sound, and technical equipment may only be operated by authorized personnel.

Appearance and Hygiene

Actors should maintain a consistent appearance throughout the production run. Significant changes to haircuts, hair color, or facial hair should be discussed with and approved by the Director.

Participants are expected to practice good hygiene and avoid strong fragrances that may affect others.

Section VII: Safety and Security Measures

The safety of all participants is a priority.

Any unsafe condition within the theatre, rehearsal space, or performance area should be reported immediately to the Stage Manager or Director.

When leaving the venue—particularly after evening rehearsals or performances—the buddy system is encouraged for personal safety.

The final person leaving the theatre should ensure that all doors are secured and the facility is properly closed.

Individuals aged 18 and older who work directly with minors may be subject to background checks in accordance with Mainstage Theatre policies.

Section VIII: Policy Enforcement

Failure to comply with the Mainstage Theatre Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, including removal from rehearsals, productions, volunteer positions, or theatre facilities.

Concerns or reports regarding violations should be directed to the Director, Producer, Stage Manager, or a member of the Mainstage Theatre Board of Directors. All concerns will be addressed promptly and respectfully.