Frequently Asked Questions

The Great Commission Theatre creates meaningful theatrical experiences that explore faith, hope, and the human experience through a Christian worldview. Whether you are joining us in the audience, considering auditioning, or simply curious about what we do, we hope these answers help you get to know us better.

What does “The Great Commission” mean for the theatre?

Our name is inspired by Matthew 28:19–20, when Jesus commissions his followers to go forth and make disciples. We believe artists can respond to that call through the gifts God has given them. For GCT, the Great Commission is lived through storytelling, creativity, artistic excellence, encounter, and invitation. We seek to create theatre that can plant a seed, begin a conversation, encourage someone, challenge someone, or offer a glimpse of hope. We may not always know what a story will awaken in another person. Our responsibility is to use our gifts faithfully and tell the story well.

Is The Great Commission Theatre a Catholic theatre company?

The Great Commission Theatre is an independent Christian theatre organization and is not an apostolate or official ministry of the Catholic Church. Our founder and executive director is Catholic, and that faith naturally informs aspects of GCT's artistic vision. As a result, some productions may explore Catholic saints, spirituality, history, or tradition. Other works may draw more broadly from the teachings and example of Jesus Christ and the Christian worldview. What connects our work is not a particular denomination, but a desire to tell meaningful stories that point toward truth, hope, dignity, grace, and our responsibility to one another.

What do you mean by “Christian theatre”?

For us, Christian theatre does not mean that every story must be explicitly biblical, devotional, or religious. We are interested in stories that take seriously the teachings and example of Jesus Christ and the inherent dignity of the human person. That can lead us into stories about hope, mercy, justice, forgiveness, sacrifice, relationships, suffering, vocation, redemption, love of neighbor, and transformation. Sometimes faith will be at the center of the story. Other times, it may be found beneath the surface. Our goal is not simply to tell an audience what to think or believe. Theatre can also ask meaningful questions, challenge assumptions, awaken empathy, and create space for reflection.

Does every production teach a particular religious doctrine?

No. GCT is a theatre company, not a classroom or catechetical program. Our Christian worldview informs the work we choose and how we approach storytelling, but not every production is intended to provide a theological answer or teach a particular doctrine. We believe theatre is especially powerful when it allows audiences to wrestle with meaningful questions and discover connections between the story onstage and their own lives.

What kinds of stories does GCT produce?

We are drawn to stories that explore faith through authentic human experience. That gives us a wide canvas. Our productions may explore family, relationships, grief, joy, justice, mercy, loneliness, courage, forgiveness, vocation, suffering, hope, sacrifice, dignity, belonging, or transformation.

Some stories may feature saints, biblical figures, or explicitly Christian themes. Others may focus on ordinary people navigating circumstances in which questions of faith, meaning, conscience, love, and grace naturally emerge. Above all, we seek stories that are theatrically compelling, truthful about the human experience, and consistent with our mission.

Will every GCT production be about saints or biblical stories?

No. Saints for Today is one initiative of The Great Commission Theatre, not the definition of all our programming. Future productions may include contemporary plays, historical works, original scripts, adaptations, staged readings, full-length productions, stories rooted explicitly in Christianity, and stories in which the Christian worldview is expressed primarily through their themes. Our programming may take different forms, but our commitment to meaningful, mission-driven storytelling remains the same.

What is Saints for Today?

Saints for Today is a Great Commission Theatre initiative that explores holiness through the human experience. Through original theatrical works, artists and audiences are invited to consider how holiness might be encountered not only in extraordinary lives, but in ordinary choices, relationships, struggles, acts of mercy, moments of courage, and responses to God's call. Its guiding question is: How do the lives of the saints help us live our holiness today?

Do I need to be Christian to attend a GCT production?

Not at all. Everyone is welcome. Our work is created from a Christian worldview, but you do not need to share that worldview to experience it. We welcome people from different Christian traditions, other faith traditions, those who are questioning or searching, and those who simply appreciate meaningful theatre. We believe a good story can create common ground—inviting us to listen, reflect, empathize, and perhaps see ourselves and one another differently.

Are GCT productions appropriate for children?

GCT productions are generally created for adult or general audiences unless an event is specifically identified as family programming. Because theatre explores the fullness of human experience, individual productions may address complex subjects such as grief, relationships, suffering, mental health, violence, loss, or other mature themes. When appropriate, we will provide content guidance so parents and guardians can make informed decisions about whether a particular production is suitable for their children.

Do you provide childcare or a children's area during performances?

Childcare and supervised children's areas are not provided unless specifically announced for an event. Children attending a production must remain under the supervision of their parent or guardian. If a future GCT event is designed specifically for children or families, that will be clearly identified in the event information.

Do you provide content guidance?

Yes. When a production includes potentially sensitive or mature subject matter, we will provide appropriate content guidance whenever possible.

Our goal is to help audiences make informed choices without revealing important moments or diminishing the theatrical experience. Content guidance will typically be included with the individual production information.

Are GCT productions accessible?

Accessibility varies depending on the production and venue. We are committed to creating a welcoming experience and will provide available accessibility information on individual event pages whenever possible. If you have a specific accessibility need or seating accommodation, we encourage you to contact us before the performance so we can determine how best to assist.

What is a staged reading?

A staged reading puts the story and the playwright's words at the center of the experience. Actors typically perform with scripts in hand, using limited staging, costumes, props, scenery, and technical elements. Unlike simply sitting at a table and reading a script, however, a staged reading may incorporate movement, characterization, lighting, music, and other carefully selected theatrical elements. It gives audiences an opportunity to experience a play in a more immediate and imaginative form while allowing the performances and writing to remain the primary focus.

Do I have to be Christian to participate as an artist?

No. We welcome theatre artists from a variety of backgrounds who are comfortable working within and respecting GCT's Christian mission and artistic values. You do not need to belong to a particular denomination or faith tradition. What matters is a willingness to collaborate respectfully, approach the material with integrity, and contribute to an environment centered on excellent, meaningful, mission-driven storytelling.

How can I get involved with GCT?

There are many ways to be part of The Great Commission Theatre—both onstage and behind the scenes. We welcome actors, directors, playwrights, designers, technicians, stage managers, production support, volunteers, and other theatre artists who are interested in using their gifts in service of meaningful storytelling. The best place to begin is by joining our Artist Community, where we share opportunities to participate in future GCT projects.

What is the GCT Artist Community?

The Artist Community is our growing network of theatre artists and collaborators interested in connecting with The Great Commission Theatre.

It is broader than an audition list. It allows us to connect with actors, directors, designers, technicians, playwrights, production support, and other artists as opportunities develop. Joining the Artist Community does not guarantee casting or participation in a production, but it helps us get to know you and keep you informed about opportunities that may be a good fit for your gifts and experience.

How do auditions work?

Auditions are announced when casting opportunities become available and may vary depending on the needs of each production. Some projects may use in-person auditions, while others may request self-tapes, readings, or other materials. Each audition notice will provide information about available roles, scheduling, preparation, and any specific requirements. We encourage interested actors to join our Artist Community so they can hear about future opportunities.

Do you accept playwright submissions?

Yes! GCT welcomes script submissions that align with our mission and artistic vision. While we may not be able to review or respond to submissions quickly, strong material may be retained for future consideration. Specific projects, such as Saints for Today, may also have dedicated calls with their own themes and guidelines. Playwrights are encouraged to join our Artist Community to stay connected with future opportunities.

Are there opportunities for directors and technical theatre artists?

Yes. Building a strong creative and production community is an important part of GCT's growth. We are interested in connecting with directors, stage managers, designers, technicians, production assistants, and other behind-the-scenes theatre artists who are drawn to our mission. Opportunities will vary by production, but joining the Artist Community helps us learn more about your interests, skills, and experience as future projects develop.

Can I volunteer if I'm not a theatre artist?

Absolutely. Productions require many helping hands beyond the stage. Depending on the event, volunteer opportunities may include front-of-house support, hospitality, audience welcome, event preparation, production assistance, promotion, and other areas of service. You don't need theatre experience to help create a welcoming and meaningful experience for our audiences.

Are GCT opportunities paid?

Compensation varies by project, role, available funding, and the scope of the production. Some opportunities may include stipends or honoraria, while others may be volunteer or community-based collaborations. When compensation is available, we will communicate that information as clearly as possible with the artists involved. As GCT grows, we remain committed to being transparent about expectations, time commitments, and compensation for each opportunity.

I'm new to theatre. Is there still a place for me?

Yes. We value experience, but we also believe in developing people and creating opportunities for artists to grow. Not every role or production will be appropriate for every experience level, but we welcome emerging artists and people who are returning to theatre after time away. If you feel called to explore how your gifts might contribute, we encourage you to connect with us.

How can I support GCT if I don't want to participate in a production?

There are many ways to help GCT grow. Attend a production. Invite someone to join you. Share our work with your community. Volunteer. Encourage an artist. Help spread the word. You can also become a GCT partner and help fund future productions, making it possible for us to bring meaningful, mission-driven stories to the stage. Every production depends on a community willing to show up, share their gifts, invest in the mission, and invite others into the experience. Whether you join us onstage, behind the scenes, in the audience, or as a supporting partner, there is a place for you in the growing GCT community.