TGWG Policies

Health and Safety Policy

The Theatre Guild of Webster Groves is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all participants, patrons, and visitors. The following standards apply to all individuals involved in productions or other theatre activities:

• Emergency Preparedness: First aid supplies are available in the kitchen area. In the event of an emergency, call 911 and notify a Board member immediately.
• Fire Exits and Equipment: All fire exits must remain clear and accessible. Fire extinguishers must not be blocked or tampered with. Auditorium occupancy is never to exceed 130 persons.
• Building Maintenance Concerns: Any unsafe conditions (e.g., loose flooring, lighting hazards, leaks) should be reported immediately to the Board at info@webstergrovestheatreguild.com.
• Rigging and Ladders: Only individuals approved by the Board or Technical Advisor may operate rigging, use the lighting grid, or work on ladders above 6 feet.
• COVID-19 or Illness Protocols (if active): Any participant experiencing symptoms of a contagious illness should stay home. The Theatre may implement mask or distancing policies based on local guidance.
• Respect for Tools and Materials: All tools, hardware, paints, and building materials must be used safely and returned after use. Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn where required.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) Policy

The Theatre Guild of Webster Groves values the contributions and stories of people from all backgrounds. We aim to foster an environment of equity and inclusion both onstage and off.

• Non-Discrimination: We do not tolerate discrimination based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, socioeconomic status, or national origin.
• Inclusive Casting and Staffing: We encourage open and inclusive casting practices and welcome diverse representation in production teams.
• Accessibility: Whenever possible, accommodations will be made for individuals with disabilities or access needs. As a historic building, our venue is exempt from certain accessibility standards. That said, we are committed to taking all possible actions to ensure our activities are accessible to all.
• Collaborative Culture: All participants are expected to listen respectfully, communicate constructively, and work to uplift others in the creative process.
• Bias, Sensitivity & Content Disclosure: Directors are asked to carefully consider the content of productions and consult with the Board about any potentially sensitive themes or portrayals. Content warnings will be posted in programs, signage, or ticketing pages as warranted. These warnings should be respectful, specific, and posted with appropriate discretion.
• Stage Violence and Physical Contact: All physical contact, including simulated violence, intimacy, or emotionally intense scenes, are clearly choreographed, discussed openly, and agreed upon in advance by all involved performers. No physical action should ever be improvised without consent. The Theatre encourages the use of best practices from intimacy choreography and fight direction where applicable.

Anti-Harassment Policy

The Theatre is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and harassment-free environment for all.

• Zero Tolerance: Harassment of any kind—verbal, physical, sexual, or emotional—will not be tolerated. This includes unwelcome advances, discriminatory jokes, intimidation, and retaliation.
• Reporting Process: Any participant who feels they have experienced or witnessed harassment is encouraged to report the issue directly to a Board member by emailing info@webstergrovestheatreguild.com. Reports will be handled confidentially to the extent possible.
• Accountability: If a report is substantiated, the Theatre reserves the right to take immediate corrective action, up to and including removal from the production or organization.

Adult/Youth Engagement Policy – Abridged

The Theatre often works with volunteers of all ages, including minors. We are committed to ensuring a safe and positive experience for everyone involved.

Supervision of Minors: A parent, guardian, or responsible adult must be present during all rehearsals or performances involving participants under age 18 unless otherwise approved by the Board.

Background Checks: Directors and volunteers in supervisory roles will be asked to complete a background check if they will be working closely with minors.

Appropriate Boundaries: Physical contact with minors should be limited to what the Director determines is necessary and appropriate for the production. Any concerns about inappropriate behavior must be reported immediately. TGWG practices safe Adult to Youth ratios with a “Rule of 3”, meaning no Adult will be one-on-one with Youth in any TGWG space.

Volunteer Conduct: All volunteers are expected to model respectful behavior, adhere to policies, and refrain from using drugs including nicotine, alcohol, or inappropriate language during theatre activities.

 

Policies are available upon request by emailing info@webstergrovestheatreguild.com.