The city of Bangkok is rich in culture, history and the arts. They have many prestigious events and facilities and a strong community based support to keep them thriving. This community support extends beyond patronage, as the Bangkok Community Theatre demonstrates. This all-volunteer organization is dedicated to the passionate amateurs who want to take part in a theatre production. It is a popular community involved and supported company who has also gained the interest of many tourists who are visiting the city and staying in a 5 star hotel Bangkok.
The Bangkok Community Theatre began in 1972 when two existing companies found they had much in common and felt a collaboration effort would benefit them both. They joined resources and the BCT soon opened its doors. The theatre produces a 4 to 5 play season each year and pulls its cast from local volunteers. Many of Bangkok’s citizens want to take part in a production, but don’t want to get onstage. The BCT uses these people for backstage work such as props, costumes and also for lighting and set design and construction. The theatre also holds monthly “club nights” where they will all meet and discuss theatre related topics and teach the essential skills.
Currently, the theatre is preparing for its Fringe Festival 2009. Auditions have taken place and the productions are in rehearsal for this one evening event in May. The festival will feature short one act plays, monologues and scenes. It offers the opportunity for anyone who has an interest in performing but has never before been onstage to get their feet wet. This is a very supportive environment and the members of BCT are there to assist, coach and help new-comers through the process. This is an all-inclusive event and the BCT makes every effort to cast everyone that has the courage to audition. Tourists from Western cities like London, Chicago and San Francisco will be happy to know that festival will be spoken in English.
