Reality: When non-theater lovers hear the term “theater kid,” stereotypical characteristics often come to mind. These traits can include being “quirky,” “weird,” and “anti-social.” The Spectrum said, “Theater kids have long been written off as a subculture which serves as nothing more than a hotbed for drama and inflated egos.” Just because interests differ does not mean these traits are accurate; kids in the theater world build communities that feel as close as family members, spending hours a week in rehearsals and getting to know each other on very deep levels. 

Reality: Theater kids are not limited to those who perform. Although many people start with performing in school musicals or community theater, there are often more people involved in the behind-the-scenes than the cast. The tech team, directors, producers, writers, songwriters, casting directors, stage managers - these are people who are heavily involved but do not get the limelight.

Reality: For “Glee” fans, this is Rachel Berry’s character. And though this character exists IRL, a majority of people in the theater community are there for the sh*ts and giggles. Especially at a level like undergraduate extracurricular musical theater, people are there to have fun and bring joy to other people. One example? Emily’s community theatre has a ritual called “The Nut,” where before every opening night, someone on the tech team brings a coconut to smash on the ground. Everyone in the cast and crew has to eat a piece of the coconut.