The San Diego Theatre Critics Circle is dedicated to discussing, critically thinking about, and recognizing excellence and the achievements of professional theatres throughout San Diego County.  

We believe the arts are a powerful force in our community and that critical theatrical coverage is enhanced by being committed to including all perspectives in theatre coverage.  We are open to anyone who meets the membership requirements and we strongly encourage BIPOC, trans/non-binary/gender non-conforming, and queer writers to apply.

Our organization has two membership levels to welcome and accommodate both those who are still growing in their writing career, as well as those who are more established.  Both levels require the following from our membership:

• Pay annual dues.
• Adhere to the standards of journalistic objectivity and ethics. 
• Recuse themselves from any connection to the San Diego theater community that would constitute a conflict of interest in reviewing, nominating, and voting in the Craig Noel Awards.
• Consent to keeping all Critic Circle discussions, nominations, and awards confidential until they are publicly presented.
• Commit to attending meetings throughout the year (virtually or in-person) to critically discuss, nominate, and vote on all eligible productions as required for their level.
  

Early Career/Associate Membership – This membership category is for skilled journalistic outlet writers interested in theater criticism and who would like to see and write about theater. Members at this level are committed to:

• Attending at least 60 percent of the productions staged during the 12-month calendar of production eligibility.
• Coverage of multiple theatres of the region throughout the year in reviews, interviews, or features.
• Attending meetings throughout the year, including the Annual Meeting at the beginning of each calendar year.

This membership level can become a Full Active Member after a 12-month writing review period and a secret ballot vote among the membership. The candidate must receive a two-thirds affirmative vote for Full Active Membership in the organization.

 Full Active Membership – This membership category comprises any skilled writer of theatre criticism who has an established forum where they publish their reviews and features. Members at this level are committed to:

• Attending at least 80 percent of the productions staged during the 12-month calendar of production eligibility.
• Coverage of multiple theatres of the region throughout the year in reviews, interviews, or features.
• Attending meetings throughout the year including the Annual Meeting at the beginning of each calendar year.

To apply for either membership level please complete the application here For further information you are welcome to contact us at info@sdcriticscircle.org