Repertory Theatre - Resident Company

Resident Company

The acting company would consist of a "leading lady", a "leading man", a "juvenile", both male and female (ingenue) for the young often romantic roles, a "character" actor and actress (for the older parts) and perhaps a "soubrette". A "guest star" might have been brought in to boost attendance, which might only cover its own added cost. The resident cast would number seven, plus the resident director, usually serving as the artistic director in charge of the whole enterprise. There would additionally be the stage director, the assistant stage manager (ASM), some unpaid apprentices, and light and sound technicians. Newcomers to a profession would often start their careers in this fashion, and members would gain a foundation upon which to base their careers. Paid members could also be sure of a steady income for one or more "seasons" which might last for 6 exhausting months. Examples of performers who went on to universal recognition are Jeremy Brett, Judi Dench, Rosemary Harris, Ian McKellen, Christopher Plummer, Harold Pinter, Imelda Staunton, Lynn Redgrave, Vanessa Redgrave, Patrick Stewart, Geraldine McEwan and Ronnie Barker. Dirk Bogarde wrote about his start at tiny Amersham rep in 1939, and Michael Caine recounts his time spent at Horsham rep in the early fifties.