What is Shadow Acting?

Thank you for your interest in our OTS Shadow Actors’ Program. Shadowing an actor is an extraordinary opportunity that can give you new perspective.  We hope you will join us and celebrate this fulfilling experience.

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!  

WE OFFER TRAINING AND WILL SUPPORT YOU!

Shadows do not need to audition but we would love to talk with you and meet you at auditions so we can find the best fit for you and your actor.  Please keep reading--at the bottom is an email address for you to contact for questions, more info, or to let us know you are IN!  

The main role of a Shadow is a friendly companion and a coach. Our actors are adults and may be affected by physical or cognitive disabilities, including (but not limited to) autism, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, MS, deafness and blindness, etc...all which may require different levels of support and adaptive techniques. (We do not always know the disability and we do not ask--we try to focus on abilities.) We welcome your help in creating a rewarding program that supports our actors’ existing abilities and encourages and celebrates the development of new skills. Our actors enjoy sharing the stage with their shadow. When everybody is singing and dancing together, there is no judgement or disparagement.  Shadows are there when an actor gets nervous, forgets what to say, or needs an encouraging smile.  Support of a shadow encourages actors to fulfill their roles on stage. 

Shadows assist their actors in different ways.  Each shadow is matched with an actor.  A comfortable bond may come easily or may take time to build as you get to know each other.  Shadows and actors learn alongside each other,  about the role, singing, dancing, where to be on stage, and when to be there.   A calm and encouraging  manner with positive reinforcement guides the actors as they learn and perform their parts.  Shadow actors have a script-in-hand to carry throughout the rehearsal process and during the performances for assistance, if needed. Sometimes actors also need help with costumes and make up. 

Just about anyone can be a shadow actor   Come  experienced the joy, energy and camaraderie of live theater, along with our actors. Even the most reserved folks get into the spirit of our shows.  Shadow actors help build a friendly and supportive atmosphere by being attentive, present, engaged, and encouraging.  Shadows help support and guide their actor, allowing them to explore their role as independently as possible.  

Time commitment for Shadow Actors depends on the role of your actor in the show. You might be called to one, or up to three rehearsals per week each lasting one or two hours. Our production schedule follows a basic format:  rehearsals, tech week, performances. Rehearsals typically begin in late August.  2022 Tech week begins October 24, when we move into the theater. You and your actor will be on stage every evening to get ready for the “Opening Night”.  This is when costumes, make-up, props, lighting, etc. are added, and it is quite thrilling to watch it happen around you.

Our performances are held the last weekend in October and the first weekend in November at The Kroc Center Theater:  Thursday Friday and Saturday evenings, and Sunday matinees.  You will need to be present for all six performances.

On our home page, you can Subscribe for email updates or email us at  info@outoftheshadowstheater.com .  Let us know you are interested in being a shadow, or knowing more about it.  We would love to have you check out our amazing group!