Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions:
Is OTL associated with the Department of Theatre or the Department of Music?
Nope, all OTL shows are completely student-run! Students from all majors and minors take part in Off the Lake's activities and shows!
What if I've never done a show before?
No experience is needed, everyone is welcome!
What is the difference between the cabarets and the mini-cabs?
OTL typically performs one cabaret in the fall and one senior send-off cabaret in the spring. These cabarets contain rehearsed group numbers along with individual performances. The entire show follows a singular theme envisioned by the director. The music director typically works with all members in rehearsals for the cabaret. Admission is open to the public and costs one canned good (which is donated to the Mid-Ohio Food Bank).
Mini-cabs, however, are opportunities for the members of OTL to perform for each other. These are typically small, intimate performances that happen every few months. Individuals in cast, crew, peer theatre, and pit can perform any song/monologue/dance without regard to a theme. These are free events where members to get a chance to watch their peers.
All members of OTL, including crew, pit, and peer theatre, perform in both the cabaret and minicab. You can check out videos of our past cabarets and mini-cabs on our YouTube channel!
What is Peer Theatre?
Peer Theatre is how we give back to the University! Visit our Peer Theatre page for more information!
On Involvement:
How do I get involved?
Visit our Get Involved page to read about how to get involved in cast, crew, pit, and peer theatre!
On Auditions/Callbacks:
What is the audition process for cast?
OTL practices inclusive casting and welcomes all those who wish to audition to do so!
Everyone in the cast (even active members) must audition in front of the director, music director, and choreographer. Try to get to your audition about 15 minutes early because there will be a short form for you to fill out.
Visit the Cast page for specific information regarding auditions.
Don't be nervous! Everyone is super friendly and wants to see you do your best!
What is the application process for crew?
If you're interested in crew, come to the audition to talk to the stage managers and to fill out a crew application. The application will ask for basic information about yourself as well as previous crew experience. If you don't have any previous crew experience, not to worry!! We can teach you everything you need to know!
Visit the Crew page for more specific information about this process
What is the audition process for pit?
If you're interested in performing in the pit orchestra, you will also need to audition! The audition process will include performing an excerpt from the show's score.
Visit the Pit page for more specific information about this process
When will I find out the cast/pit/crew list?
The final cast, pit, and crew list will be emailed to everyone when finalized!
On Membership/Leadership Opportunities:
What is active membership and how do I become an active member of OTL?
OTL active membership runs on a point system. By attending service, community, and organization events, members of the cast, pit, and crew rack up points and can achieve active membership by attaining a specific amount of these points. Active members of OTL are given the opportunity to participate in the Fall Cabaret, vote for the next year's productions, and vote for OTL's directors and president.
What are the leadership opportunities in OTL?
OTL gives a number of opportunities for all members to step up and lead various aspects of the group if they're interested! For a year-long leadership role, members are encouraged to apply for E-board positions at the end of the spring semester.
On Supporting OTL:
How can I support OTL monetarily?
OTL is a non-profit organization, so we always appreciate donations! If you would like to become a patron, feel free to contact us via offthelakeproductions@gmail.com. We also have a donation jar at all of our shows.