The Rules of Billy Elliot The Forum (“the Forum”) are strict and the Admins make no excuse for this. The significant involvement of children on the Forum and in the show makes it imperative that rules are clear, understood and are enforced swiftly.
The primary purpose of the Forum is:
The POSITIVE discussion of the musical, shared experiences of shows, reviews of performances , observations of directorial changes and interpretations etc, debate about the themes of the show and fans encouragement and support for the cast members. It is also a wonderful way to meet others with a similar interest in the show.
The primary rule of the Forum is:
Nothing will be posted on this Forum or transmitted by PM that compromises or threatens to compromise the well-being, safety, security or privacy of any minor, including cast members, their families or other forum members.
Supporting posting rules and guidelines
Members recognize that young cast members read this forum. While they are professional actors and performers they remain children and forum members need to behave appropriately.
- Any comments posted relating to younger cast members should be positive in nature. Any overt criticism should be left to their teachers, directors, mentors and parents. Encouragement is always welcome.
- There may be comparisons and favourites but there should never be a ranking of cast members past or present. Each cast member has their own strengths and weaknesses but they have all achieved the highest standard to perform.
- Nothing shall be posted which causes speculation as to the start date, length or finish dates of any younger performer’s run on stage. The Forum should not be adding extra angst to any already pressured time.
- Nothing shall be posted which causes speculation about any illness or injury. Flu and sprained muscles are a common hazard and should not be inflated to life threatening illnesses! Posts about growth and voice breaking etc should be avoided. It will already probably be at the top of their minds and the media make quite enough of it as it is!
- Family members and friends of cast are reminded that although the Forum understands you will of course have a favourite, a balance has to be made in praise and comment.
- Any schedule information or cast change posted should indicate an authoritative source (or failing that should note and notify the Admins of the source) or risk the automatic deletion of the information)
- The personal web pages of the younger cast’s Myspace, Facebook etc are private and information or pictures from there should not be posted on the Forum.
- Members’ posts on other messaging boards using the same handle/username as they use on the Forum should also comply with the spirit of these Rules as responsible behaviour relates, we believe, to the individual and not just the message board. (If you notice someone else is using your Forum username on other messaging boards, please tell the Admin)
Behaviour between members
The Forum is a place for reviews, comments, healthy debate and news. It is NOT a place for argument between members. Therefore:
- Members may not make personal attacks on other members or their views in posts. Any vehement disagreement should be directed over PM. Personal attacks are never allowed, even over PM.
- If members would not say things in person – face to face - to other members then they should not post them. Anonymity should neither be assumed nor abused in posting anything.
- It is ALWAYS the responsibility of the poster to communicate clearly. To avoid miscommunication, misunderstanding and possible offence, post carefully and clearly. A one line response without explanation is very easy to misinterpret.
- If a member is unsure whether a post is acceptable they should check with an Admin or moderator as to its suitability, or NOT post it.
Behaviour of members in and around the theatre
The actions and behaviour of members inside and outside of the theatre(s) and in relation to the cast, the company and the theatre staff reflect on the name and reputation of the Forum and all its members. The Forum has a good relation with the theatre & the Billy Company and has in the past received many special privileges which should never be assumed or taken for granted.
The Administrators suggest members observe the following recommendations:
- Stage door behaviour
- The chaperones have an important job to do and should be obeyed at all times and without complaint
- Never follow cast members away from the stage door or disturb them while they are having a meal in a restaurant, etc.
- Photographs – ask permission of the chaperone or parent/guardian first! No photos from a distance or away from the stage door.
- If you are told NO to photographs or autographs then please accept this decision graciously, there will be a good reason for it.
- Never expect the cast to sign numerous programmes or items for you or to pose for many pictures. Please get your photograph and/or autograph and then give others a chance.
- Do not push others out of your way to get photographs. Forum members have no more priority to a picture than other fans and theatregoers.
- Do not ‘overload’ on photographs – if you have a picture of or with a cast member – do you really need another after every show? This behaviour can easily be misconstrued.
- Members must remember that the cast, especially the younger cast, have been working hard throughout the show and will probably be tired, and so should not overly impose on their time afterwards. Furthermore, if a young cast member is with his or her parents, remember that time is often limited for them to be together, especially those living a long way from home.
- Members may on occasion overhear private conversations between cast, staff and parents. Particularly when this involves the younger cast, these conversations should never be repeated or posted.
- Remember that the company and theatre have to look after the broader majority of theatre goers and have legal, commercial and safety priorities that do not revolve around the fans. This needs to be respected in what is said and posted.
- The Forum does not support or condone the recording or unapproved photography of the show. Members should obey the theatre rules and must not post anything that promotes or appears to encourage such actions.
Conclusion
As Forum members we have no special privileges other than seeing and enjoying a fantastic performance!
The rights, safety and wellbeing of younger members of the cast and younger forum members come before any assumed right of free speech on the Forum. The Admins have absolute discretion in all matters relating to the Forum.
If you have any questions or are unsure of any aspects, please do not hesitate to contact a member of site staff, who are here to help you at all times.
Version 1.0 - 15th May 2009