Be A Good Chorus Member

While not as "glamorous" as a lead role, being a chorus member is an important position and in many musical theatre shows it can also be quite demanding.

Performing well as a chorus member gives you satisfaction but can also build your reputation as a "serious" performer and may increase your chances of a role in the next show - so take it seriously.

There are many things a chorus member can do (or not do) to help rehearsals and performances run smoothly, and to avoid annoying fellow cast members.

- Take the opportunity to watch, not judge, the lead roles while they are rehearsing. You may learn something!

- Come to rehearsals prepared to work. Bring a pencil and paper to take notes on how things should be sung, and how the chorus blocking works.

- Practice your songs at home so that you can learn them quickly. Music directors always appreciate chorus members who learn lyrics and melody lines quickly.

Rehearsal Ettiquette

It is very important to remember that as a chorus member the point is not for your voice to stand out. We've all had to sing in a chorus or choir with that one person who seems to think everyone else is there to be their backup singer - don't be a sound hog. Listen to your voice within the context of the group as a whole.

Respect the personal space of others. Especially in the early stages of rehearsals when "note bashing" is still happening, everyone needs to be able to hear themselves clearly. Especially if you are sitting behind someone, keep your distance to avoid singing directly into someone's ear.

If your rehearsals require you to "sit quietly" for any period of time, and you are tired of watching the leads rehearse, bring something (like knitting) to keep you quiet. Do not get into the habit of having conversations with others during rehearsal, unless you are sure that the noise will not be bothersome to others.

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