Our Mission: Dream City Church is committed to helping people on their spiritual journey – and we believe the arts and great storytelling inspire that journey. The cast/crew are under no obligation to attend DCC services or activities - however, we believe growth happens best in groups, and if you are looking for a home church, we welcome you. DCC has impactful worship services with excellent music and relevant messages at 4 different campuses; quality classes on finances, recovery, bible study, parenting and more; outreach to thousands of people in need; and small groups where people build lasting friendships. Check out more at dreamcitychurch.us
COC 2019 - CAST and CREW EXPECTATIONS
Our Creative Team strives to create a positive behind the scenes culture and enjoyable experience.
HONOR THE MISSION
We ask all cast, crew and leaders to kindly honor and respect the Christian values of Dream City Church while on the premises, and while representing the church during this production.
STAY CONNECTED / COMMUNICATION
It is up to YOU to read all communication and information regarding the show. Your main sources of information will be via email and on the Cast/Crew website. From now to Dec 22, you will receive regular updates and information about the show. We request that you check your email and the Cast/Crew website DAILY so that you know what is going on and can respond in a timely manner.
CONFLICTS / ABSENCES
With about 300 performers it is virtually impossible to schedule around all performer conflicts. You will need to communicate directly with your individual leader(s) to discuss conflicts and absences from rehearsals. If you have excessive absences, you may be removed from certain scenes/songs – this will be at the discretion of the creative team. Please be proactive about informing your cast manager(s) if you will be late or absent.
COMMUNITY OF RESPECT
We value creative excellence and relational excellence. One of the most rewarding aspects of being in a production is the friendships that are made. We will be a ‘family’ for the next 3 months, so enjoy getting to know the cast, crew, and leaders. We strive to encourage the ‘golden rule’ – treat others as you would want them to treat you. Foster respect and encouragement to your fellow cast/crew members and leaders. Do your best to leave your ‘emotional baggage’ from the day at the door – bring a positive attitude to rehearsals, costume fittings and other show related events.
All cast and crew are asked to support and show respect towards all leaders (directors, stage managers, designers, tech staff, etc.) Although at times, there may be choices or decisions you may not agree with, we ask you to support the process. Accept suggestions and direction from DCC Creative Arts staff with grace and humility.
Please refrain from: profanity, inappropriate talk or behavior, and potentially divisive conversation. Be an example of integrity - dress modestly, honor your commitments, promote a positive environment. If you have a disagreement or run-in with other cast/crew members, please do your best to resolve it in a healthy manner. If you have any concerns, go directly to your leader to help resolve it – avoid the temptation to spread rumors or commiserate with others.
ARTISTIC & REHEARSAL ETIQUETTE
‘Excellence is the absence of distraction’. Each rehearsal environment is where performers, designers and technicians are taking creative risks to achieve artistic excellence. Protect the rehearsal focus from any distractions (including excessive talking, cell phones, cast romances, etc.). Be prepared – once music, blocking and choreography has been taught it is the performers responsibility to be ‘off book’ (memorized) as soon as possible. Avoid ‘directing’ your fellow cast members – leave that to your director/choreographer. Be on time! But if you are late, do not come barging into your rehearsal and disrupt the environment.
We have skilled artistic leaders who are crafting the numerous creative aspects of the show. Feel free to ask questions and express any practical concerns but please ask permission first before you share your artistic opinion or preference.
SAFETY
‘If you see something, say something’. Any concerns that may affect the safety or welfare of the cast/crew should be communicated to Mark, April, or Dan. They will determine the best way to address it. In an emergency, contact a cast manager or leader – and they will call 911. Kids 13 and under should always be escorted by a Parent/Guardian to/from their rehearsal room. Parents are welcome to hang out in the lobby during rehearsals. The glass lobby doors are to remain locked during all production activities (please do not let anyone in the lobby doors), cast/crew should always use the designated side doors. When leaving late night rehearsals, please try to walk to your cars in a group.
SOCIAL MEDIA / REHEARSAL PICTURES & VIDEOS
Ok, this is a tricky one. As our culture grapples with the ramifications of social media, we ask that you please use utmost discretion with social media to avoid posting anything that would be detrimental, controversial or contradictory to the mission, image and reputation of Dream City Church and to our Christmas production. In addition, we ask that you do not post ANY pictures or videos of ‘performance elements’ during rehearsals, without the consent of an Artistic Leader (director, choreographer, stage manager, etc.). Backstage rehearsal selfies, group photos/videos and the like (that are not ‘performance elements’) are OK to post as long as they reflect the participants in a positive manner. DCC will produce various promotional photos and videos that you are encouraged to share and post.
Thank you for helping make this production effective, efficient, and safe!