What's the difference between an FTE and PTE?

> A FTE is an Ensemble member who has agreed to not just exceed both personal and professional expectations in their artistic specialties, but to be actively involved in the growth and development of the Company.  Current FTEs are Merritt Glover, Kate Mura, Gordon Romei, Francesca Sanders and Kerry E. Sorci.  Outside of our creative contributions, we are involved in marketing, audience development, design, house and building management, outreach, grant-writing, information technology, internships and other fields necessary for the success of Fuse.

A PTE is an Ensemble member who has a specialty of great importance to Fuse, but may not be able to survive on as little sleep as the FTEs do.  PTEs are more than merely invaluable to the Ensemble: they are real friends and we couldn't be here without them.  Current PTEs are Molly Best Tinsley, Georgia Erdenberger, Melanie Kuppenbender, Tami Matthews, Rick Sanders and Ron Sorci.  Between them, we have truly expert help with our finances, advertising, business outreach and too many others to mention.

Are the letters an acronym? 

Yep.  But we're not tellin'.  :)

How did the company name come about?

> Fuse Theatre Ensemble was the unanimous choice after having considered several dozen alternatives (lots of decisions in this Ensemble are unanimous, which bodes well).  It's important to us to have a name and identity that reflects the core principles we all feel are fundamental to our creative processes.  Each member chose several options and explained them during meetings resulting from our first retreat, and Kerry distilled the true meaning of what we want to accomplish.  We are a true core; a nexus of creative drive and vision.  When your Ensemble has its own waterfall for inspiration, anything is possible.

Why do you hold weekly Ensemble meetings?

> To keep in touch, share ideas and see how the momentum is moving us along.  These meetings are generally held immediately following marketing meetings (also weekly), and this was done to keep all the promotional ideas fresh to relay to the FTEs.  The beauty of technology is that all FTEs are present at these meetings, even when one or more members are touring.  Conference calls are a nifty invention.  As to what we talk about?  Let's just say that we often enjoy cookies, orange-infused cranberries, tea and juice. 

How did you choose your season?

> Very simply, we want to produce theatrical works that challenge and illuminate.  We are a truly collaborative Ensemble, and the sparks flying around the room when we discussed possible plays was a bit overwhelming.  We don't shy from difficult works, technical requirements, demands on actors or finding a way to include other art forms.  The plays we've chosen all reflect our interests and curiosities and will be produced to the highest possible standards.  And then some.

Finally, what's with the unique titles/job descriptions?

> Glad you asked.  In our individual work before Fuse came about, we've each been described as intense and dedicated artists.  In some circles, a certain nickname can be given to someone based on consistency of work, attitude, work ethic, or just personality.  Our marketing team came up with the idea to have each FTE write one word to describe the others, and these are listed on the bios as "the verdict."  This is how we see one another.  It wasn't a far stretch for each of us to create a descriptor for ourselves.  This is how we see ourselves, and what we bring to Fuse Theatre Ensemble...

Merritt Glover:  Imaginator    

Kate Mura:  Catalyst

Gordon Romei:  Instigator

Francesca Sanders:  Word Smith

Kerry E. Sorci:  Synthesizer