Join BATS
Join BATS Theatre — open to all, no audition required, all skills welcome on stage and behind the scenes.
You don't need to audition. You don't need to act. You don't need to have done theatre before.
BATS membership is open to anyone of any nationality, of any experience level. Tell us what you're interested in — acting, directing, writing, building sets, costumes, lights, sound, front-of-house, photography, social media, baking for opening night — and we'll plug you in.
The quickest way in is to come to a workshop or stop by the next show as audience and say hello afterwards. You can also email us and we'll point you toward whatever's starting next.
The questions below cover the practicalities: dues, audition policy, time commitment, language, what to expect at your first rehearsal. If yours isn't answered, get in touch.
Joining
Do I need to audition to join BATS?
No. Membership is open — no audition, no experience, no theatre background required. Auditions only come into it if you want to be cast in a specific production, and even then they're open to all members. You can join, come to workshops, help backstage, or just turn up to socials without ever stepping on a stage.
Membership
Is there a membership fee?
Yes, a small annual fee that helps cover running costs: 200 kr individual, 300 kr family. That's it — there's no per-production charge if you take part in a show. Payment details are shared when you sign up.
Rehearsals
What's the time commitment?
It depends entirely on what you take on. A lead role in a main production is the biggest ask — a couple of evening rehearsals a week for two to three months, plus learning lines and prep on your own time. Chorus and smaller parts in the same shows need much less. Backstage roles, improv, and workshops are lighter still, and Pop-Up Pub Theatre is built around a single-evening commitment. There's no expectation to be at everything — sign up for what suits you and skip the rest.
Social
Do I need to speak Norwegian?
No. BATS is English-speaking — rehearsals, productions, workshops, and meetings all run in English. Our members come from many different countries and language backgrounds, and a mix of accents and fluency levels is the norm rather than the exception.
How do I find out what's happening?
Most internal coordination runs on Spond, where rehearsals, workshops, projects, and social events are posted as they come up. Members also have a private Facebook group for chat and updates. Public-facing news — shows, ticket links, open auditions — lives here on the website and on our Facebook and Instagram pages.
How can you contribute in BATS?
We don't just need actors and directors — there are countless ways to contribute to BATS. We're a community of creative individuals, and if you're too shy to be in the spotlight but have artistic talents you'd like to explore, this is the perfect place for you. Here are some skills you can bring to the team:
Acting
Audition for productions, big roles to ensemble.
Directing
Lead a show as director or assistant director.
Stage management
Run rehearsals and performances on the day.
Set design
Design and build the world of the play.
Lighting
Programme and operate stage lighting.
Sound
Design, programme, and operate sound and FX.
Costumes
Source, fit, and maintain costumes.
Front of house
Welcome the audience, sell tickets, run bar.