How to get Students to Commit to a Role

Does this sound familiar: A student auditions for a play. That student is cast. Halfway through the rehearsal process they either start missing rehearsals because of “other commitments” or drop the show altogether. Why is it so hard for students to commit to a role? And more importantly, how do you get students to commit to a role they accepted? Here are three strategies to keep students committed throughout the production process.

Clearly Communicate Expectations

If a student has not been involved in a theatre production before, they may not fully understand what is expected of them. They’re excited to accept a role until they are confronted with the full rehearsal calendar, and they suddenly realize they have over committed. It’s easier to hold students accountable for their commitments if they (and their parents!) know what they’ve committed to. Before the production process even starts, create a simple “contract” that clearly communicates requirements, expectations, and timelines associated with the production. Read it out loud at the start of auditions, and have students get their parents to sign a copy of it before you agree to cast them. Even though this contract is not legally binding, it does eliminate the excuse of students and parents claiming they didn’t know what was expected of them.

Emphasize Community

A sense of belonging and positive peer pressure can be powerful tools to keep students involved with a production when their commitment begins to ebb. Help students understand that they are a valuable member of the ensemble and an important piece of the “production puzzle” that the cast is depending on. Let them know that if they don’t honor their commitment it will have a negative impact beyond the immediate disruption of the show, and their peers, their school, and their director are all counting on them. Appeal to their community spirit and help them recognize how important their commitment is.

Provide Positive Feedback

At some point in their career all theatre teachers will have to give the “Life is about making choices and honoring commitments” speech. However, that speech sticks better when a student feels like they are a genuine asset to the production and process. When a student sees their participation in a positive and constructive light, they’re more likely to commit to sticking it out. So improve the odds of students staying in your production by providing positive feedback as often as possible. When a student feels appreciated they are more likely to choose your production over another conflicting commitment.

Additional Reading:
Accountability: In Rehearsal, the Classroom, and as a Citizen
Calling All Theatre Teachers: Should I set classroom expectations or include my students?
Helping Drama Students Understand Commitment
Addressing Scheduling Conflicts with Show & Student Commitments