BHS Theatre Boosters

educate. inspire. entertain.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions that aren't answered here, feel free to contact the 2007-8 Volunteer Coordinator, Kim McAllister at Kim.Mcallister@theatreBHS.com or call her at (952) 447-7137.

What are the fees typically associated with theatre involvement?

What stage makeup am I required to have?

What is asked of me as a parent?

How do I get a DVD of a show?

Theatre Fees

ACTIVITY FEE

The activity fee for each event - be it musical or play - is $30.  This fee is mandated by Burnsville High School to help defray the costs of the theatre program, including stipends for directors and other program expenses.  This fee is expected only from performing cast members, so crew and orchestra pit members are exempt.

All checks are made payable to BHS and given to the director at the time of audition.

ANGEL CONTRIBUTION

In an effort to reduce the need for fundraising events that demand time and energy of students and families, the booster club has requested that all theatre guild participants make a contribution towards the Angel Society.  This fund covers items not paid for by the school - such as the scenic painter, choreographer, rehearsal pianist and technical equipment.  Unlike the $30 activity fee which goes to the school and is only paid for by performers, the booster fee is expected from all members of the BHS theatre company - including cast, crew and orchestra pit and benefits the theatre program directly.

Participants are asked to pay $120 which covers theatre participation for the WHOLE YEAR - no matter how many shows you are in.  This amount is per student.  Checks for Angel Society are made payble to BHS and should be given to Christine Zrust or Randy Day by the opening night of your first show.  They can also be mailed to:

Randy Day
BHS Theatre Guild
600 East Highway 13
Burnsville, MN 55337

We understand that in light of the economy or your own family dynamics that this contribution might be a hardship.  If your family is unable to pay this fee or must make special payment arrangements, please contact Christine Zrust at chrristine.zrust@theatreBHS.com or call her at 952-769-7901.

SUMMER THEATRE

There are no fees associated with the summer theatre program.

Stage Makeup?

All performers are required to wear stage makeup (and learn how to apply their OWN makeup).  The stage lights wash out your complexion and make you look ill or ghostlike on stage.  Unfortunately, due to health issues, the theatre does not supply or share makeup, so you will need to purchase your own.

Character, period and age of your character will obviously dictate what makeup you need for each show.  However, the basics for most actors are a foundation makeup, powder to set it, eyeliner and shading makeup.  These can easily be purchased in kits online at http://www.norcostco.com/.  Following are some sets commonly used sets by BHS Theatre members.  

BEN NYE PERSONAL STUDENT KID ($16)
Perfect for the beginning performer and basic staple for ongoing needs.

BEN NYE'S THEATRICAL CAKE KIT ($48)
Added makeup for aging, character & special effects

 

BEN NYE'S THEATRICAL CREMEM KIT ($45)
Similar to above, in a lighter weight formula
Creme makeup is lighter and feels less greasy.  However, for those with oily or sensitive skin, we recommend using the cake makeup.

Other good items to keep in your makeup kit are:

  • Makeup application sponges
  • Bobby pins (for tying hair back in wigs)
  • Nylons (that can be used as a to pin down hair under wigs)
  • Hairspray
  • Combs/brushes

What is asked of me as a parent?

Did you know that during Beauty and the Beast for every 1 person on stage, there were 3 backstage who helped bring this amazing show to fruition?   While the theatre program is a high school activity, the need for help off stage can often exceed what the student body can typically meet while still maintianing their academic priorities.  So, we turn to the parent boosters to fill the gap.

We ask that ALL parents contribute time in one way or another to the shows that their child is involved in.  For some this may be helping out during rehearsals with costume or set construction, donating food for rehearsal dinners or helping put up posters around town.  There are ways where you can volunteer from your own home - helping with sewing, publicity or fundraising. 

For those who have work or other conflicts, there are opportunities to help during performance nights.  These areas, such as ushering, flower or t-shirt sales, typically only require that you come an hour early to help.  Then, you can watch the show!  (In some areas, such as concessions, we ask that you also help during intermission.)  It is a very easy way to help out, without sacrificing a lot of time.

Parents are a vital part of the program - helping to mentor students in many areas, while supporting our own children in their activities.  Not only will you have an opportunity to make a big impact on a valuable program, but you will also have a lot of fun mixing with other parents and interacting with the students.

To learn how you can get involved, attend our parent booster meetings at the start of rehearsals (watch for announcements) or contact the booster club volunteer coordinator. 

How do I get a DVD of the show?

Due to licensing restrictions, some shows are unable to be recorded for video distribution.  However, if there will be a video produced for a performance, they will be sold after production is complete. Costs typically average around $20 per DVD.  Production takes a couple months and distribution will be done at later performances and theatre meetings.  You can purchase past videos during future performance nights or in the STAF office (Room C202) when it is open. 

If you are interested in ordering a video from a prior show or would like to check on the status of a prior order, contact the STAF Business Manager.  (For the 2009-10 year, it is Kelly McLeod or kelly.mcleod@theatreBHS.com)