Students who are entering 9th grade through the completion of 12th grade and who live in the Rockland County area are eligible to participate in the program.

Unfortunately, we require students to make a commitment to attend every night of the program. The professional staff is given a very short time frame to prepare the students for Opening Night. Since the success of cast, orchestra, and crew depends on a precision team effort, we have found that the absence of even one participant can be very disruptive to the program. Sorry.

Students are expected to arrive promptly at 6:30 p.m. each night unless told otherwise. Punctuality is very important for the success of the program, so lateness is not acceptable. On the other hand, flexibility is the name of the game for dismissal time. Although, parents should arrive at 10:30 p.m. to pick up the students, and the staff strives to complete rehearsals each night by this time, there are nights, particularly during tech week, when more time is needed to refine different aspects of the show. It is important to be patient and supportive during these times, because the students are gearing up for opening night. So...bring a book, catch a cat nap, or stop in to watch the rehearsal.

CSTF welcomes constructive criticism as we are always striving to improve the program. You can call a member of the Executive Board to discuss your suggestions or, better yet, you can join our Board of Trustees as we are always looking for people with good new ideas to enhance the program. Please do not use program time to share these concerns or suggestions since Board Members are often involved in supervision and security and distractions can compromise the safety of the students.

Program participants are supervised at all times by either professional staff, board members, and/or parent volunteers. Name plates are provided and are expected to be worn by all adult and student program participants. Adults are vigilant about screening unfamiliar persons who come to visit our program. Non-program participants are requested to leave. Workplace safety is emphasized during all phases and aspects of the program. Students in crew are taught the safe use of tools. Performers are instructed on the safe use of their tools- voice and body. During performances, CSTF has Emergency Medical Personnel on standby with an ambulance to assist if needed. By the way, please make us aware of any special medical needs or conditions that your child may have by indicating this information on his or her confidential application.

No previous theatre experience is necessary to participate in CSTF; however, orchestra members must be accomplished musicians. More experienced cast members usually earn lead roles, while novice cast participants usually gain their experience in the chorus. Members of crew get on the job training.

CSTF is always in need of volunteers to help. We hire an excellent Professional Staff to take care of the technical and training aspects of the program. We need responsible adults to supervise during rehearsals and performances, as well as to assist on our numerous committees. For example, Playbill needs people to type, cut, and paste; Welcoming needs people with good communications skills; Refreshments,Boutique, and Tickets need organized people with basic sales skills; Costumes needs people who can help with dressing and mending. There are many ways to assist during the summer program, as well as during the entire year. Join the CSTF Board of Trustees, we will find a perfect job for you. No experience necessary!