LCHS Drama Code of Ethics
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is a habit..." Aristotle
by Tom McLaughlin
September 10, 2005
Part of the great tradition of the theatre is a Code of Ethics which belongs to every worker on the legitimate stage. This code, while tacit, has been observed throughout the centuries and will continue long after us. It is neither superstition, nor dogma, nor stature enforced by law. It is and attitude toward craftsmanship, a respect for associates and a dedication toward the audience. This code outlines a self-discipline which, far from robbing one of individuality, increases personal esteem and dignity through cooperation and common purposes. The result is an approach toward perfection which encompasses all that is meant by “Good Theatre.”
The show must go on! I will never miss a performance.
I shall play every performance to the best of my ability, regardless of how small my role or large my personal problems.
I will respect my audience regardless of size or station.
I shall never miss an entrance or cause the curtain to be late by my failure to be ready.
I shall never miss an entrance or cause the curtain to be late by my failure to be ready.
I shall forego all social activities which interfere with rehearsals and will always be on time.
I shall remember that my aim is to creating illusion, therefore, I will not destroy the illusion by appearing in costume and make-up off or outside the theatre.
I will use stage properties with care, knowing they are tools of my crafts and a vital part of my craft and a vital part of the production.
I will observe backstage courtesy and shall comport myself in strict compliance with rules of the theatre which I work.
I will not allow the comments of friends, other actors, relatives, or critics to change any phase of the production without consultation with and the permission of the director.
I shall look upon the production as a collective effort demanding my utmost cooperation; hence I will forego gratification of ego for the demands of this play.
I will be patient and avoid temperamental outbursts, for they create tension and serve no useful purpose.
I shall respect the play and the playwright, remembering that “A work of art is not a work of art until it is finished.”
I shall never blame my co-workers for my own failure.
I will never engage in caustic criticism of another artist’s work as a result of my own jealousy or an urge to increase my own prestige.
I shall inspire the public to respect me and my craft through graciousness in accepting both praise and constructive criticism.
I shall accept the director’s advice in the spirit in which it is given for he/she sees the production as a whole and my role as a portion thereof.
I shall never lose my enthusiasm for the theatre because of disappointment or failure for they are lessons by which I learn.
I shall direct my efforts in such a manner that when I leave the theatre it will stand as a greater institution for my having labored there.
