• Financial support for productions—up to 50% of the total budget

• Eligible expenses include production rights, sets, props, costumes, supplies, and technical needs

• Access to Arts of the Albemarle resources such as ticketing, publicity support, and potential use of existing costumes, sets, and props

• Access to Arts of the Albemarle resources, such as ticketing, publicity support, and the possibility of existing costumes, sets, and props

Matching funds and sponsorships are needed to strengthen your proposal and production.

The fund is open to:

• Local directors, theatre artists, or groups staging shows in the Maguire Theatre

• Applicants with theatre experience, organizational skills, and a clear plan for bringing their vision to life

• New directors, provided they work with an experienced mentor

• The AOA Community Theatre Committee (AOACTC) reviews all proposals

• This committee does not include AOA staff or contractors

• Proposals are evaluated on the strength of the application, the experience of the team, and the director’s résumé

• Applicants will receive a decision within 30 days of submission (no feedback will be given if denied)

Applicants must submit a detailed production proposal that includes:

• A show description and why it’s a good fit for the community

• A list of any potentially sensitive content (such as vulgarity, swearing, depictions of violence, or racially sensitive/offensive material, including outdated stereotypes or depictions of racism).

  • Some mature themes may be allowed, provided audiences are informed before purchasing tickets

• Information on how you exhibit the top 3 qualities we look for in a director: Organizational and Leadership Skills, Strong Communication and Collaboration, & Community Engagement and Inclusivity (more information below)

• A complete budget and funding request, including matching funds and sponsorships

• A proposed rehearsal and performance schedule

  • Performances must run within a 14-day period

  • AOA may provide rehearsal space, but applicants should secure a backup location

• A committed creative team, including:

  • Director

  • Stage Manager

  • Media/Marketing Manager

  • Lighting & Sound Designers/Operators (AOA can recommend technicians familiar with our boards, but applicants must book and pay them directly)

  • Set & Costume Leads

  • For musicals: Choreographer and Music Director

• A marketing plan (AOA provides limited marketing support)

  • AOA will share social media posts, include productions in our newsletter, and display posters. The creation of graphics, posters, playbills, press releases, and their distribution is allocated to the director and their team.

• A director’s résumé; AOACTC may also request examples of previous work

• If your production involves children (anyone under 18), you must submit a Child Safety Plan, including:

  • Safeguards to protect children (e.g., adult cast members provide background checks or references)

  • Clear boundaries between adult and child cast members (e.g., no adult alone with a child)

  • Any additional steps to create a safe and supportive environment for youth participants

• Productions must be performed at Arts of the Albemarle and must hold open auditions

• Casting should reflect inclusivity and may not be limited to the director’s friends or acquaintances

• Mature content may be permitted as long as audiences are clearly informed in advance

• Proceeds from ticket sales cover venue costs and replenish the fund for future productions

• Funds may not be used to pay directors or performers (exceptions: lighting/sound staff, if needed)