EMACT History

EMACT was founded in the late summer of 1985 by an emergency gathering of individuals concerned with the cancellation of an annual community theatre festival, which had run uninterrupted since 1954. Evidenced from the initial outpouring of concern, a state organization was seen as a necessary means of assuring the continuation of the nation's oldest festival.

It was also apparent that such an organization would provide a valuable means of communication among individuals and theatre companies by collectively addressing their needs and concerns. Educational programming such as workshops and the establishment of a consulting program were adopted that same autumn; as well as other supportive activities, such as a monthly newsletter to promote member company auditions and productions. It was also made clear that groups wanted individual and company recognition for productions performed in their own theatre spaces and from that an annual achievement event was included in the organization's first season.

The organization worked closely with NETC (then the festival hosting organization), to assure that the festival continued until such time as EMACT could take sole sponsorship. By 1992 the organization was ready to transition sponsorship of the Annual Drama Festival and completed the task in 1993. The festival continued to venue on the campus of Brandeis University until 2003, when it was moved to its new location at Babson College.

In its 20 years, EMACT has worked to improve its communication by employing the internet with its website, providing easier access to all of its programs and services. It has reviewed its programming and in many cases expanding or tailoring, to meet the specific needs of our members. And true to its theatrical nature, it has found opportunity to celebrate its members' achievements, through an annual awards event; culminating in an entertainment filled gala and banquet, and presentations of annual award trophies in some 45 categories of excellence.

Governing Board

Douglas Cooper, President

Sal Jones, Executive Vice President

Susan Harrington, Recording Secretary (AACT Rep)

Celia Couture, Festival Vice President

Mark Usher, Services Vice President

Chuck Holleman, Treasurer

Jean MacFarland, Membership Secretary

EMACT 2008-09 Slate of Officers

The following Slate of Officers are recommended by the EMACT Board of Directors to replace departing officers, fill vacancies or remain in their current positions for a term beginning July 1, 2008.

Elections will be held at the Annual General Meeting:
9AM, June 14, 2008
Black Box Theater
Campbell Performing Arts Center
Groton School
Farmers Row
Groton, MA

2008-09 Slate

President - Rober Hallisey: actor, director, producer and current member of the EMACT ETC Consulting Pool is a resident of Winchester and a past president of the Winchester Players.

Executive Vice President - Sal Jones: resident of Lexington and president of the Lexington Players will continue for a second term.

Treasurer - Chuck Holleman: resident of Carlisle and treasurer of both Concord Players and Nashoba Players of Westford will continue for a second term.

Recording Secretary - Susan Harrington: resident of Roslindale, producer and an active member of the Footlight Club will continue for a second term.

Membership Secretary - Larry Segal: resident of Winthrop and an active board member of the Theatre Company of Saugus is a current member of the EMACT 2008 Festival Committee.

Vice President of Festival - Marlene Mandel: resident of Concord, an actress and producer for the Concord Players and a current member of the 2008 EMACT Festival Committee and the 2009 New England Regional Festival Committee.

Vice President of Services - Mark Usher: resident of Winthrop, an actor, director and consultant to the EMACT ETC program will continue in his first term.

Vice President of Publicity - Linda McConchie: resident of Concord, is the current president of the Concord Youth Theatre and publicity chair as well as producer for the Concord Players.

Vice President of Development - Judson Pierce: resident of Arlington, actor and author of the book Greater Boston Community Theater returns to his seat on the EMACT Board of Directors.

Vice President of Education - Vacant