Getting involved
There is always so much going on in student drama, and sometimes it can seem a bit daunting. But there is such variety that there is something to suit everybody, regardless of past experience, area of interest, or the amount of time you want to commit. You can get involved in any aspect and from any level, or if you prefer, there are lots of shows going on that you can just go and watch.
Acting
If you are not already a member of OUDS (Oxford University Dramatic Society), then go to their website (www.ouds.org) and sign up. This is easy and free to do. The website is full of useful information, and most importantly houses the OUDS Job Centre, which lists all the auditions going on, as well as adverts for other positions. Many colleges also have college drama societies, some of which put productions on within their own college. To find out about these, go to your JCR website, email me to ask who to get in touch with, or ask your OUDS rep for more information. The list of OUDS reps can be found on the OUDS website.
Most auditions in Oxford are open, so you can just turn up at the time and place specified. Occasionally you'll be asked to book a slot in advance or contact the director to arrange an audition. Similarly, most auditions don't require you to prepare monologues - instead you'll be given a short piece to prepare once you've arrived at the audition. If you're not sure whether or not to prepare, just ask the director (their contact details will be on the audition advert).
Back to topTeching
Positions for technical crew are also posted on the OUDS Job Centre, but TAFF (Tabs Are For Flying) has its own job centre too. TAFF also operate a very efficient mailing list, through which you can hear about many opportunities for jobs coming up as well as being able to send your own requests.
If you want to gain a bit of experience before taking on any large technical roles, try contacting the TAFF Secretary about their shadowing scheme.
Back to topDirecting, Producing, and Marketing
If you're interested in any of these areas then check out the resources pages for guides on various roles.
Any member of the University can get a team together, apply to a theatre in one of these roles, and put on a play. There is a separate section on this website with details of the application procedure for the various theatres in Oxford and guides to the different roles in the production team. If you don't want to strike out on your own, there are always opportunities for assisting and shadowing more experienced people on other projects. Keep an eye on the OUDS and TAFF Job Centres and TAFF mailing list for posts available, or approach the teams who are putting on show at the moment to ask if you can be involved (you'll be able to get their contact details from the drama officer).
Back to topWatching
Each week the Drama Officer's Email has a "What's On" section, listing all the plays happening that week, as well as a "Coming Soon' section with the following week's productions. This website also has a listings section with details of all student productions as well well as other drama-related events. For full Oxford drama listings (and indeed listings of all kinds) the best site is Daily Info.
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