Organize a Dinner Theater Event
Dinner theater combines two great pastimes that Americans love: Eating and being entertained. There's nothing like a great night out, watching passionate people perform and getting fed while you're there. However, organizing a dinner theater event can be a bit daunting. Follow a few easy tips for a fantastic evening of theater.
Instructions
1. Pick a date. The first thing you must do is commit to a firm date on which you'll have your dinner theater event. Look at the calendar and make sure the night you choose doesn't conflict with a major traveling holiday, sporting event or something else in your community.
2. Choose a venue. Now that you've got a date, you have to find somewhere to sing for your supper. Schools, churches, local theaters and even restaurants are all great places to consider when organizing your event. Take the time to visit these locations, and think about how many people will be performing and if they'll have adequate space to do the show. Also make sure there is ample seating and the kitchen is a place where you'll be able to prepare the meal. Pick a place and be sure to sign a contract to book the evening.
3. Decide on a show. When choosing a show for your dinner theater event, make sure it is one that can be easily performed without many props or extensive scenery or lighting. Also be sure to choose a show which plays to the strengths of your acting company as well as being enjoyable for your audience. Hamlet for 8-year-olds might not be a big hit!
4. Advertise the production. You're having your big show, so you've got to get the word out. Send emails, post on community Web sites, take out an ad in the newspaper, pass out fliers-do anything and everything to make sure people know about your show.
5. Decide on a menu. This is the other important thing about your dinner theater event, so dn't let it slide. Make sure the food will be fresh, easy to prepare and enjoyable for your audience. This is one place you definitely don't want to skimp. Think about meals you can make easily in large quantities that are also tasty. (Spaghetti and meatballs always go over well.)
6. Rehearse your production. Make sure you don't put so much time into planning the event that you neglect rehearsal, as that's the whole reason people are coming in the first place. Put a lot of time and effort into your show and the benefits will pay off.
7. Break a leg! It's the big night, so relax and have fun. Go out, perform and be proud of the show you are putting on.
