Frequently Asked Questions
General
Q. What is Beacon Performing Arts?
A. Beacon Performing Arts is a group of theatre loving individuals who have come together to help bring quality theatre to the community. We all have a passion for performing, as well as a passion for cultivating a love of theatre for those who perform in and attend our productions. We started Beacon because we saw the need in our community for a safe environment for children and adults to come and share their God given gifts and talents on the stage. We value each other's unique talents and callings and strive to help each person find their gifting, and share it with those around them.
Q. What makes Beacon different from other theatre programs?
A. Beacon was created to be a safe and welcoming place where people of all ages can share their God-given gifts. We aren't simply a group of actors—we're a family, and we hope you'll feel that from the moment you walk through our doors.
We are intentional about choosing family-friendly productions and creating an environment where our performers and audiences can feel comfortable. We do not use the GD or F words in our productions. We are intentional about keeping our costumes appropriate for performers and audiences of all ages. Beacon does not use lingerie, sexually suggestive cabaret-style costuming, or nudity in our productions.. Violence called for in a script is staged in a way that is appropriate for our audiences or takes place offstage.
Actors under the age of 18 do not participate in onstage kissing. Adult actors are always given a choice regarding scripted intimacy, and if either actor is uncomfortable, we find another way to tell the story. Theatre gives us plenty of creative ways to make a moment believable without asking anyone to compromise their personal values or boundaries.
We also communicate with our actors about blocking, choreography, and costumes to help ensure they are comfortable with what they are being asked to do and proud of what they bring to the stage.
Our published productions are officially licensed through organizations such as Music Theatre International, Concord Theatricals, and Dramatists Play Service, and we are committed to respecting theatrical licensing and copyright requirements. We also produce original Murder Mystery Dinner Shows created especially for Beacon audiences.
We strive to present productions that are appropriate for audiences of all ages. If a show includes mature themes, language, or other content that parents may wish to consider, we will clearly note that information on the Shows page.
Q. Where is Beacon located?
A. 901 Halsell St. Bridgeport TX 76426
A. Beacon Performing Arts is a group of theatre loving individuals who have come together to help bring quality theatre to the community. We all have a passion for performing, as well as a passion for cultivating a love of theatre for those who perform in and attend our productions. We started Beacon because we saw the need in our community for a safe environment for children and adults to come and share their God given gifts and talents on the stage. We value each other's unique talents and callings and strive to help each person find their gifting, and share it with those around them.
Q. What makes Beacon different from other theatre programs?
A. Beacon was created to be a safe and welcoming place where people of all ages can share their God-given gifts. We aren't simply a group of actors—we're a family, and we hope you'll feel that from the moment you walk through our doors.
We are intentional about choosing family-friendly productions and creating an environment where our performers and audiences can feel comfortable. We do not use the GD or F words in our productions. We are intentional about keeping our costumes appropriate for performers and audiences of all ages. Beacon does not use lingerie, sexually suggestive cabaret-style costuming, or nudity in our productions.. Violence called for in a script is staged in a way that is appropriate for our audiences or takes place offstage.
Actors under the age of 18 do not participate in onstage kissing. Adult actors are always given a choice regarding scripted intimacy, and if either actor is uncomfortable, we find another way to tell the story. Theatre gives us plenty of creative ways to make a moment believable without asking anyone to compromise their personal values or boundaries.
We also communicate with our actors about blocking, choreography, and costumes to help ensure they are comfortable with what they are being asked to do and proud of what they bring to the stage.
Our published productions are officially licensed through organizations such as Music Theatre International, Concord Theatricals, and Dramatists Play Service, and we are committed to respecting theatrical licensing and copyright requirements. We also produce original Murder Mystery Dinner Shows created especially for Beacon audiences.
We strive to present productions that are appropriate for audiences of all ages. If a show includes mature themes, language, or other content that parents may wish to consider, we will clearly note that information on the Shows page.
Q. Where is Beacon located?
A. 901 Halsell St. Bridgeport TX 76426
Attending a Show
Q. Where can I buy tickets?
A. Tickets can be purchased Online or at the door, if seats are still available.
Q. Should I buy tickets in advance?
A. Yes! Our shows frequently sell out, so we strongly recommend purchasing tickets online in advance.
Q. When do ticket sales go live?
A. Ticket sales are typically available to cast and crew families after the first rehearsal. General public ticket sales usually open approximately three weeks before the production.
Q. What time should I arrive before a performance?
A. We recommend arriving 15–20 minutes before the show begins. This will give you time to find parking, grab a snack, use the restroom, and get settled before the performance starts.
Q. Are seats assigned or general admission?
A. Seating for our standard productions is assigned. Our Murder Mystery Dinner Shows are general admission.
Q. What happens if I arrive late?
A. Because of the intimate nature of a Black Box Theater, late seating may require you to wait until the aisles and stage area are clear before being shown to your seat. If you arrive more than 15 minutes after the performance begins, your seat may be released to someone on the waitlist.
Q. Can I exchange or refund my tickets?
A. Beacon uses Ludus, a third-party ticketing service, and we are unable to process refunds directly. If you purchased Ludus' Money Back Protection, refund requests will need to be submitted through Ludus.
If you need to move your tickets to another performance, please email [email protected]. We will do our best to accommodate your request based on availability.
Q. Are your shows appropriate for children?
A. In general, our productions are appropriate for audiences of all ages. We typically produce one show each season featuring an adult-only cast, and we encourage parents to familiarize themselves with that production before purchasing tickets to make sure they are comfortable with the subject matter.
We do not use the GD or F words in our productions.,We are intentional about keeping our costumes appropriate for performers and audiences of all ages. Beacon does not use lingerie, sexually suggestive cabaret-style costuming, or nudity in our productions.. Violence called for in a script is staged in a way that is appropriate for our audiences or takes place offstage.
If a production includes mature themes, language, or other content that parents may wish to consider, we will clearly note that information on the Shows page.
Because of the length and live nature of our productions, we do not recommend bringing children under the age of 2. If a child becomes upset or disruptive during the performance, we may ask that they be comforted in the lobby until they are ready to return.
Q. Do children need their own ticket?
A. Yes. Every guest, including children who will be sitting on a parent's lap, must have a ticket.
Q. How long are your shows?
A. Most regular productions and Murder Mystery Dinner Shows run approximately two hours. Some larger productions may run up to 2½ hours.
Junior and children's productions presented by the Hive Co-op typically run between 30 and 60 minutes. The estimated time can be found on the Shows page.
Q. Do you sell concessions?
A. Yes! We offer a variety of concessions, including sodas, water, popcorn, candy, and special show-themed frozen drinks.
We also offer show-themed tea sandwich boxes and charcuterie boxes from Clara's Tea Room for select productions. These specialty boxes must be purchased in advance.
Q. Can I bring outside food or drinks into the theatre?
A. Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted. However, alcoholic beverages purchased from participating Bridgeport establishments on Halsell Street may be brought into the theatre where permitted.
Q. Is Beacon accessible for guests with disabilities?
A. Yes! We have two designated ADA-accessible seating spaces in the front row, an ADA-accessible restroom, and a ramp leading into the Black Box Theatre. Because accessible seating is limited and often sells quickly, we recommend reserving these seats in advance.
Q. Can I take photos or video during a performance?
A. We love when audience members take photos and share their Beacon experience on social media! However, our licensing agreements prohibit video recording of our productions.
Photography policies may vary by production, so we ask that guests follow any instructions given before the performance.
A. Tickets can be purchased Online or at the door, if seats are still available.
Q. Should I buy tickets in advance?
A. Yes! Our shows frequently sell out, so we strongly recommend purchasing tickets online in advance.
Q. When do ticket sales go live?
A. Ticket sales are typically available to cast and crew families after the first rehearsal. General public ticket sales usually open approximately three weeks before the production.
Q. What time should I arrive before a performance?
A. We recommend arriving 15–20 minutes before the show begins. This will give you time to find parking, grab a snack, use the restroom, and get settled before the performance starts.
Q. Are seats assigned or general admission?
A. Seating for our standard productions is assigned. Our Murder Mystery Dinner Shows are general admission.
Q. What happens if I arrive late?
A. Because of the intimate nature of a Black Box Theater, late seating may require you to wait until the aisles and stage area are clear before being shown to your seat. If you arrive more than 15 minutes after the performance begins, your seat may be released to someone on the waitlist.
Q. Can I exchange or refund my tickets?
A. Beacon uses Ludus, a third-party ticketing service, and we are unable to process refunds directly. If you purchased Ludus' Money Back Protection, refund requests will need to be submitted through Ludus.
If you need to move your tickets to another performance, please email [email protected]. We will do our best to accommodate your request based on availability.
Q. Are your shows appropriate for children?
A. In general, our productions are appropriate for audiences of all ages. We typically produce one show each season featuring an adult-only cast, and we encourage parents to familiarize themselves with that production before purchasing tickets to make sure they are comfortable with the subject matter.
We do not use the GD or F words in our productions.,We are intentional about keeping our costumes appropriate for performers and audiences of all ages. Beacon does not use lingerie, sexually suggestive cabaret-style costuming, or nudity in our productions.. Violence called for in a script is staged in a way that is appropriate for our audiences or takes place offstage.
If a production includes mature themes, language, or other content that parents may wish to consider, we will clearly note that information on the Shows page.
Because of the length and live nature of our productions, we do not recommend bringing children under the age of 2. If a child becomes upset or disruptive during the performance, we may ask that they be comforted in the lobby until they are ready to return.
Q. Do children need their own ticket?
A. Yes. Every guest, including children who will be sitting on a parent's lap, must have a ticket.
Q. How long are your shows?
A. Most regular productions and Murder Mystery Dinner Shows run approximately two hours. Some larger productions may run up to 2½ hours.
Junior and children's productions presented by the Hive Co-op typically run between 30 and 60 minutes. The estimated time can be found on the Shows page.
Q. Do you sell concessions?
A. Yes! We offer a variety of concessions, including sodas, water, popcorn, candy, and special show-themed frozen drinks.
We also offer show-themed tea sandwich boxes and charcuterie boxes from Clara's Tea Room for select productions. These specialty boxes must be purchased in advance.
Q. Can I bring outside food or drinks into the theatre?
A. Outside food and beverages are generally not permitted. However, alcoholic beverages purchased from participating Bridgeport establishments on Halsell Street may be brought into the theatre where permitted.
Q. Is Beacon accessible for guests with disabilities?
A. Yes! We have two designated ADA-accessible seating spaces in the front row, an ADA-accessible restroom, and a ramp leading into the Black Box Theatre. Because accessible seating is limited and often sells quickly, we recommend reserving these seats in advance.
Q. Can I take photos or video during a performance?
A. We love when audience members take photos and share their Beacon experience on social media! However, our licensing agreements prohibit video recording of our productions.
Photography policies may vary by production, so we ask that guests follow any instructions given before the performance.
Auditioning for a show
Q. How do I audition for a Beacon production?
A. We welcome all ages, and experience levels to audition! You can find information about upcoming auditions here.
For many productions, we also offer optional Audition Prep Days. These give you an opportunity to meet the director, practice scenes that may be used for cold readings, work with the music director on audition songs, and learn the audition combination with the choreographer. You'll have a chance to run through the material several times before the actual audition.
While Audition Prep is optional, we strongly recommend attending. It's a great way to feel more prepared, become familiar with the material, meet members of the Creative Team, and get some of those audition-day nerves out of the way!
An online audition form must also be completed before auditions. Everything you need to prepare or bring will be listed on our Audition Info page.
Q. Do I need acting experience to audition?
A. Not at all! One of the things we love about Beacon is welcoming performers of all experience levels—from those stepping onto a stage for the very first time to seasoned performers. We believe participating in a production is one of the best ways to learn, grow, and gain hands-on theatre experience.
Q. Is Beacon just for kids?
A. Not at all! Beacon is theatre for all ages. We generally recommend performers be at least 6 years old, depending on the production, and we're always excited to welcome talent of every age to our stage.
Each production has different casting needs, so be sure to check the audition information for any show-specific age requirements.
Q. Is there a fee to participate in a production?
A. Yes. Production fees typically range from $200–$250 per performer, depending on the show. These fees help offset the cost of producing each production, including licensing and royalties, sets, costumes, props, and other production expenses.
Sibling discounts and a limited number of scholarships may be available. Please reach out to us for more information.
Q. How much of a time commitment is being in a show?
A. Rehearsal schedules vary by production and are built around the needs and availability of the cast. A typical schedule includes Saturday and/or Sunday rehearsals, with leads and other featured roles potentially rehearsing an additional 1–2 weeknights. Additional rehearsals are required during Tech Week leading up to opening night.
We strongly encourage you to list all known conflicts on your audition form. This helps the Creative Team create the rehearsal schedule and determine casting with everyone's availability in mind.
Q. Can my child participate without a parent volunteering?
A. Because Beacon is a nonprofit community theatre, our productions rely heavily on the help of our wonderful volunteers. We ask parents of participating children to volunteer for at least two performances during the production.
If your child is under 8 years old, a parent or guardian may also need to be present backstage during Tech Week and performances unless other arrangements have been approved by the Creative Team.
There are many ways to volunteer, and we'll work with you to find an area where you're comfortable helping!
Q. Does Beacon offer theatre classes?
A. We do not currently offer traditional theatre classes. We believe one of the best ways to learn theatre is by doing it! Participating in a Beacon production gives performers hands-on experience with acting, music, choreography, blocking, rehearsals, backstage etiquette, and the process of bringing a full production to the stage.
Q. Do you offer private voice or dance lessons?
A. Beacon does not currently offer private voice or dance lessons. However, we work with several highly qualified local instructors whom we're happy to recommend. Please reach out to us, and we'll be glad to help connect you with someone.
A. We welcome all ages, and experience levels to audition! You can find information about upcoming auditions here.
For many productions, we also offer optional Audition Prep Days. These give you an opportunity to meet the director, practice scenes that may be used for cold readings, work with the music director on audition songs, and learn the audition combination with the choreographer. You'll have a chance to run through the material several times before the actual audition.
While Audition Prep is optional, we strongly recommend attending. It's a great way to feel more prepared, become familiar with the material, meet members of the Creative Team, and get some of those audition-day nerves out of the way!
An online audition form must also be completed before auditions. Everything you need to prepare or bring will be listed on our Audition Info page.
Q. Do I need acting experience to audition?
A. Not at all! One of the things we love about Beacon is welcoming performers of all experience levels—from those stepping onto a stage for the very first time to seasoned performers. We believe participating in a production is one of the best ways to learn, grow, and gain hands-on theatre experience.
Q. Is Beacon just for kids?
A. Not at all! Beacon is theatre for all ages. We generally recommend performers be at least 6 years old, depending on the production, and we're always excited to welcome talent of every age to our stage.
Each production has different casting needs, so be sure to check the audition information for any show-specific age requirements.
Q. Is there a fee to participate in a production?
A. Yes. Production fees typically range from $200–$250 per performer, depending on the show. These fees help offset the cost of producing each production, including licensing and royalties, sets, costumes, props, and other production expenses.
Sibling discounts and a limited number of scholarships may be available. Please reach out to us for more information.
Q. How much of a time commitment is being in a show?
A. Rehearsal schedules vary by production and are built around the needs and availability of the cast. A typical schedule includes Saturday and/or Sunday rehearsals, with leads and other featured roles potentially rehearsing an additional 1–2 weeknights. Additional rehearsals are required during Tech Week leading up to opening night.
We strongly encourage you to list all known conflicts on your audition form. This helps the Creative Team create the rehearsal schedule and determine casting with everyone's availability in mind.
Q. Can my child participate without a parent volunteering?
A. Because Beacon is a nonprofit community theatre, our productions rely heavily on the help of our wonderful volunteers. We ask parents of participating children to volunteer for at least two performances during the production.
If your child is under 8 years old, a parent or guardian may also need to be present backstage during Tech Week and performances unless other arrangements have been approved by the Creative Team.
There are many ways to volunteer, and we'll work with you to find an area where you're comfortable helping!
Q. Does Beacon offer theatre classes?
A. We do not currently offer traditional theatre classes. We believe one of the best ways to learn theatre is by doing it! Participating in a Beacon production gives performers hands-on experience with acting, music, choreography, blocking, rehearsals, backstage etiquette, and the process of bringing a full production to the stage.
Q. Do you offer private voice or dance lessons?
A. Beacon does not currently offer private voice or dance lessons. However, we work with several highly qualified local instructors whom we're happy to recommend. Please reach out to us, and we'll be glad to help connect you with someone.
Other
Q. Does Beacon offer opportunities besides acting?
A. Absolutely! It takes a village to bring a production to life, and there are plenty of ways to get involved offstage. We welcome help with backstage crews, concessions, program ad sales, poster distribution, set work, props, front-of-house needs, and more.
If you'd like to be part of Beacon but don't necessarily want to be onstage, we'd love to have you!
Q. Can I rent the Beacon Black Box Theater?
A. Yes. The Beacon Black Box Theater is available to rent for select events. Please email us at [email protected] with information about your event, and we'll be happy to discuss availability and options.
Q. How can my business sponsor Beacon?
A. We'd love to partner with your business! There are several ways to support Beacon while also connecting your business with our audiences:
Q. Can I make a tax-deductible donation?
A. Yes! Beacon Performing Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and donations are greatly appreciated.
Checks may be mailed to:
Beacon Performing Arts
P.O. Box 751
Decatur, TX 76234
You may also donate through Venmo at @Beacon-Performing-Arts. If prompted for the last four digits, use 4781.
Q. How do I hear about upcoming auditions, shows, classes, and events?
A. Follow Beacon Performing Arts on Facebook and Instagram, and check our website regularly for the latest information about upcoming productions, auditions, special events, and other opportunities.
Q. Who do I contact if I have another question?
A. The best way to reach us is by email at [email protected]. We'll be happy to help!
A. Absolutely! It takes a village to bring a production to life, and there are plenty of ways to get involved offstage. We welcome help with backstage crews, concessions, program ad sales, poster distribution, set work, props, front-of-house needs, and more.
If you'd like to be part of Beacon but don't necessarily want to be onstage, we'd love to have you!
Q. Can I rent the Beacon Black Box Theater?
A. Yes. The Beacon Black Box Theater is available to rent for select events. Please email us at [email protected] with information about your event, and we'll be happy to discuss availability and options.
Q. How can my business sponsor Beacon?
A. We'd love to partner with your business! There are several ways to support Beacon while also connecting your business with our audiences:
- General Donations — Donations of any amount are always appreciated.
- Show Scholarship — $250 — Help cover the production fee for a performer who may otherwise be unable to participate.
- Program Advertising — $150–$400 — Promote your business directly to Beacon audiences through an ad in one of our show programs.
- Presenting Sponsor — $15,000 — Become the presenting sponsor for an entire production. Benefits include your logo on production posters and tickets, recognition at each performance, a full-page color program ad, and one private performance for up to 73 guests from your organization.
Q. Can I make a tax-deductible donation?
A. Yes! Beacon Performing Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and donations are greatly appreciated.
Checks may be mailed to:
Beacon Performing Arts
P.O. Box 751
Decatur, TX 76234
You may also donate through Venmo at @Beacon-Performing-Arts. If prompted for the last four digits, use 4781.
Q. How do I hear about upcoming auditions, shows, classes, and events?
A. Follow Beacon Performing Arts on Facebook and Instagram, and check our website regularly for the latest information about upcoming productions, auditions, special events, and other opportunities.
Q. Who do I contact if I have another question?
A. The best way to reach us is by email at [email protected]. We'll be happy to help!