A Pro-Am Community Theatre involves both professionals and amateurs being cast in various parts in a production- rather than having the amateurs on the sidelines (as in extra work). Professionals and amateurs have the chance of landing principle roles. Some famous people have performed in pro-am. Not only does this type of theatre encourage amateurs it allows unpaid professionals somewhere to practice their craft and talent before or between other work. This is not equity work - and may require a waiver. Pro-Am can provide not just entertainment, but theatre laboratory, experimental and teaching functions and opportunity in all aspects of stagecraft and performance. Given the growth of this level of theatre in the US, Canada and the UK, the impact of a true pro-am community theatre cannot be underestimated.
