A repertory company, pronounced as /rɛpərtɔri kʌmpəni/ is a group of actors who regularly perform multiple plays or productions. The word "repertory" comes from the French word "répertoire" which means "repertoire," and is spelled with an "e" after the "p" rather than an "a" or "o." This spelling is due to the word's origin from the Latin "repertorium." The word "company" is spelled with two "n's" as it originated from the Latin word "compania." Together, they form the spelling of "repertory company."
A repertory company, also known as a rep company, refers to a group of actors, performers, and theatre professionals who work together under one organization or theater company. This collective is comprised of a predetermined ensemble of actors who collaborate on a regular basis to produce a series of plays and performances. The company typically operates on a rotating schedule, presenting a diverse range of theatrical productions throughout a designated season.
Repertory companies are often associated with regional or resident theaters, although they can also be found in larger professional organizations. They are known for their versatility and ability to perform multiple plays simultaneously or consecutively, allowing audiences to experience different performances within a relatively short timeframe. This collaborative model enables actors and performers to settle into a sense of camaraderie and familiarity, building chemistry and rapport that enhances the overall quality of their performances.
The specific number of actors involved and the duration of their collaboration can vary depending on the size and structure of the repertory company. As a cohesive unit, the ensemble members frequently work together to refine their craft and explore various theatrical genres and styles.
Repertory companies play a crucial role in the preservation and development of theatrical arts by providing a platform for skilled artists to continuously challenge themselves and nurture their talent. They contribute significantly to the growth of the theater industry by cultivating a sense of community, creative exploration, and the potential for groundbreaking artistic endeavors.
The word "repertory" comes from the Latin word "repertorium", which means "storehouse" or "collection". In the context of theater, the term "repertory" refers to the collection of plays that a theater company has available to perform.
The term "repertory company" emerged in the English theatre scene in the early 19th century. It originally referred to a group of actors who had a shared stock of plays that they would rotate between performances. This allowed them to produce a variety of different plays without having to spend too much time rehearsing new productions.
Over time, the word "repertory" has become associated with companies that regularly perform a changing repertoire of plays. These companies often have a core group of resident actors, enabling them to produce a diverse range of productions throughout the year.