BE A PART OF THE ART JOIN THE COMPANY THE THEATRE OF WESTERN SPRINGS We welcome artists of all experience levels to join us in our work, just as Mary Cattell did when she founded this theatre in 1929. TWS would not be recognized as one of the western suburbs' most vital cultural institutions without the help of hundreds of talented, friendly and dedicated people. First, whether you act on our stage or work behind the scenes, you will need to become an official active member of TWS by purchasing a season subscription to our Mainstage and Forum productions. TWS cuurently has a company of some 330 "Actives". Remember, you need not be interested in acting on the stage to become an Active; many of our members are in it for the fun of participating in our productions with a level of professionalism that isn't always found in community theatre. Second, all persons interested in acting on our stage must attend and complete the Studio 1 workshop offered each year in October, and is open to anyone 18 years of age or older. In October of 2009, the Studio workshop was conducted by Kurt Naebig of Buffalo Theatre Ensemble. (Kurt was later named Artistic Director, effective April, 2010). Studio 1 consists of ten sessions, and attendance is mandatory at 8 of the 10 sessions. Participants perform improvisational exercises, monologues and scenes. In order to remain eligible for casting in a TWS production, new active members must subsequently complete the Studio 2 workshop, offered every February, within two years of completing Studio 1. The Studio workshops are free and are open to all new active members, regardless of experience.The Studio sessions are fun-you'll make new friends and learn something about the culture and traditions of our 81 year-old theatre. To maintain Active status, members must purchase a season subscription and contribute each year to the work behind the scenes or front of house in some manner. As Actives see shows and work on-and off-stage for others, they become a well-rounded citizen of our theatrical community. By providing such a complete artistic experience, TWS makes it easy and fun to express your creative side in a supportive environment. The Theatre of Western Springs is a successful, challenging volunteer-based theatre founded in 1929 by Mary Cattell. We know that you will find TWS an interesting and invigorating place to utilize and be recognized for your time and talents. Come and check us out - our Managing Director (Bill Hammack) will be happy to show you around. Are you interested in joining us and acting on the TWS stage? STUDIO 1 is our annual "casting call", but it's more than that. It's a workshop which introduces you to the culture of TWS in an environment that is shared with other aspiring actors.