The community theatre event AACTFest 2013 will be hosted by the Carmel Repertory Theatre at the Center of the Performing Arts June 17 – 23, 2013. More than 7,000 community theatres across the country and those entertaining armed services overseas compete to qualify for this national showcase sponsored by the American Association of Community Theatre. The event will include 12 production performances, educational theatre workshops, a theatre marketplace, and the presentation of national awards.
Previously hosted in cities such as Memphis, Tenn., and Charlotte, N.C., the festival is a major gain for the entire theatre community of Carmel. Larry Creviston, chairman of the Carmel Repertory Theatre and AACTFest 2013, thanked the mayor and the city council for their commitment to the performing arts. “The main reason we beat out cities like Cleveland, Minneapolis, Boston, Salt Lake City, and many others, was you,” he said. He explained that the quality of Carmel’s performing arts facilities and proximity to shopping, salon, and restaurant options surpassed the expectations of AACT’s Festival Committee.
Over 600 participants are expected to benefit the local economy during the week-long event. Cities are chosen to host the festival in odd-numbered years, but Creviston expressed AACT’s interest in a permanent host city. “They are, at this time, keenly interested in keeping the festival in Carmel,” he said. “If we can convince a national organization to utilize Carmel then perhaps others will follow suit.”
“The Carmel Repertory Theatre will be looking for many volunteers to pull off this exciting event,” said Susan Creviston, AACTFest 2013 vice chairman. Local community and theatre members are encouraged to participate through several volunteer opportunities. “We welcome all questions and assistance,” she said.
“(This festival) will benefit all theatres in the area,” said Shannan Speicher, AACTFest communication director. “We cannot wait to share this with them.”
Get Involved
Volunteers- support staff, dinner hosts
Technical Presenters- share your technical theatre skills
Youth Presenters- share your skills in managing, directing and performing with young people
Merchants- list your business as a special merchant
Vendors- promote your theatre-related products or services in the festival marketplace
Sponsors- financial support for community theatres