Starting a Community Theatre Company

1. Is It Time You Started a Theatre Company?
An overview of the basics you need to consider.

2. How to Form a Nonprofit Organization
For tax purposes, and to allow people to make tax-deductible donations to your company, it is important to incorporate in your state as a nonprofit organization. Click here for more information.

3. How to Write a Mission Statement
A mission statement, or artistic statement, is a shared vision of what your company is all about. Here's how to do it.

4. Sample Bylaws
We have provided sample bylaws in several different styles, based on the size of the company, and how detailed you feel your bylaws should be. You may also find it useful to blend components from more than one set into your own.  A text version of each example may be downloaded for editing on your computer. Note that different styles and wording may be needed in different states; it's wise to consult your state attorney general's office, or whichever state department has oversight over nonprofit organizations.

• Bylaws Sample 1 (6 pages)
• Bylaws Sample 2 (10 pages)
• Bylaws Sample 3 (5 pages)
• Bylaws Sample 4 (musical theatre company, 8 pages)
• Bylaws Sample 5 (simple structure, 4 pages)
• Bylaws Sample 6 (simple structure, 3 pages)
• Bylaws Sample 7 (extensive, 15 pages)
• Bylaws Sample 8 (for a company with no membership, 4 pages)

5. Other Resources

• Theatre Folk: Explanations of tasks & responsibilities of actors, directors, designers, producers, publicity managers, stage managers.
• Theatrically Speaking, by Enid Holm. Topics covered in the 340-page book include the legalities: organizing and structuring for the business of theatre; developing codes of operation for business and artistic endeavors; management by goals and objectives; and much, much more. Included in the appendix are sample By laws, Articles of Incorporations, Annual Fund Drive Campaign, etc. It's available for order from the Texas Nonprofit Theatre Association.
• Americans For the Arts.  Publications, advocacy, and much more. The organization's publications on management, volunteerism, and advocacy are especially helpful. More...
• Center for Nonprofit Management, Supplying management, training and technology assistance to nonprofit organizations. More...
• For an overview of the incorporation process, see the website of the Management Assistance Program for Nonprofits (MAP).