A Comic actor or actress encompasses a role “reasonably” intended by the playwright to be comedic and will be evaluated for character, movement, expression, difficulty of role, and timing. The comic performer should hold a significant presence in at least one scene. Any smaller presence, such as, but not limited to, a “one-liner” walk-on role should not be considered adequate for qualification. A role that qualifies for lead or supporting is automatically considered large enough to qualify for comic. A role that qualifies for featured may/may not be considered large enough to quality for comic. Critics should keep in mind that it is more difficult to maintain comedy for multiple acts than for a few moments. Examples would include Leaf Coneybear in "Putnam County Spelling Bee", Agatha in "The Children’s Hour", and Eulalie Shinn in "The Music Man", Eugene in "Grease". Examples of characters that would NOT qualify include Giles Corey in "The Crucible", Bum in "Hairspray", and Grocery Boy in "The Children’s Hour".
Annual Reminders:
If you want the featured category split, please write it in on application and follow up with an email at the BEGINNING of the year.
Regional chapters may split tech categories into PLAY and MUSICAL