The orchard Players will not discriminate against anyone joining on the grounds of their gender, race, ethnic or national origin, marital status, age, sexual orientation, religion or political beliefs, disability or socio-economic status, nor will it tolerate any form of discrimination by a member against another member, or against users or audiences of the orchard Players on these grounds. It is the duty of all members to ensure that they comply with this policy.
The Society will ensure that:
- members observe the standards outlined above.
- bullying is not accepted or condoned; see separate anti-bullying policy.
- action will be taken to stop any inappropriate verbal, written or physical behaviour.
- it holds a register of every member involved with the society and retains a contact name and number close at hand in case of emergencies.
- a Safeguarding Officer is in post to whom any complaints or requests for advice or support can be made by anyone feeling that they are the victim of harassment.
- any allegations of inappropriate behaviour will be investigated and action taken as appropriate.
- all necessary measures are taken to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all members of the cast and crew.
Members are required to:
- Treat other members and the public with respect always, recognizing that what is acceptable to one person may not be acceptable to another.
- Avoid inappropriate behaviour such as insensitive jokes, unnecessary body contact, displays of sexually offensive material, and the use of suggestive, abusive, threatening or insulting language
- Respect directors, other leaders and each other during rehearsals and other sessions. Foul language or abusive behaviour will not be tolerated.
- Respect the rehearsal and performance space and any materials, equipment or properties used.
- Conduct themselves in a manner which is respectful to the Society – which is not abusive to the Society, or which may bring the Society into disrepute. This includes any comments posted on social media.
- Not take photographs in changing areas.
- Use discretion before posting any images on social media and will obtain the permission of each person in any photograph to be published on Social Media, before that photograph is posted.
- Put maximum effort and energy into each session and perform to the best of their ability.
- Always arrive in plenty of time for the start of sessions or rehearsals.
- Put away mobile phones before a session begins – they may be used in emergencies only.
- Behave responsibly, following reasonable instructions which may be given to them by the director or stage manager.
- Ensure that their membership fees are paid up to date.
- Let the director / leader know of any expected absence in advance where possible.
- Wear appropriate clothing for the activity preferably a Black or Orchard Players T Shirt – comfortable clothes which facilitate free and easy movement, and flat, comfortable footwear.
- The taking of photographs or video recordings are strictly prohibited in rehearsal time or show performances, unless being filmed for rehearsal purposes by the director/choreographer and shared on the members Facebook page only. If any parent/guardian or person known to a group member breaks this clause, it could result in the membership of the group being terminated for the said member.
- Directors must be allowed to manage the rehearsal space effectively. When they are addressing adult or junior cast members, it is entirely reasonable to ask for quiet and cooperation from everyone present. Undermining that authority—particularly in front of the juniors—not only disrupts the rehearsal but also sets a poor example.