Question 1

Is the event free?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every Common Assembly screening is free or suggested-donation. No tickets, no paywall — donations welcome if the night was worth something to you.

Question 2

What should I bring?

Accepted Answer

A blanket or low-back chairs, warm layers (LA drops fast after sunset), and a picnic if you like. Full checklist on our blog.

Question 3

Is it family-friendly?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Film ratings are listed with each event announcement so you can plan for younger kids.

Question 4

Where do I park?

Accepted Answer

Every campus posts its own parking note with the event announcement — most nights use the closest student lot, free after hours or with a night pass.

Question 5

What time does everything start?

Accepted Answer

Doors open about an hour before showtime. The student showcase runs 20–30 minutes before the main event. Exact times post with each event.

Question 6

What if it rains?

Accepted Answer

Rain plans are announced per event — join the email list and we'll tell you the moment anything changes.

Question 7

Who can submit a short film?

Accepted Answer

Any student enrolled at a Cal State campus in LA County. Shorts run under 10 minutes and screen before the main feature on the same lawn, same projector, same crowd.

Question 8

Do bands get paid?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every ensemble that scores a feature is paid, and rehearsal time on the venue's sound system is part of the booking.

Question 9

Do I need scoring experience to pitch a live score?

Accepted Answer

No. We care about the arrangement and the ensemble's ability to hold a room for ninety minutes. Send a rehearsal recording and a short note on how you'd approach the film.

Question 10

Are there crew roles for non-filmmakers?

Accepted Answer

Yes — projection, audio, stage, front-of-house, and documentation. It is real production experience on a real show night, credited by name.

Question 11

Where does a donation actually go?

Accepted Answer

Musician fees first, then gear rental, insurance, licensing, and student stipends. Nights stay free because the cost is carried before anyone arrives.

Question 12

Are donations tax-deductible?

Accepted Answer

We operate as a nonprofit and provide a receipt for every gift. Reach out and we'll send documentation for your records.

Question 13

Can a business or department sponsor a night?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Campus departments, local businesses, and family foundations all underwrite nights. Email jim@thecommonassembly.com and we'll send the sponsor one-sheet.

Question 14

Can I volunteer instead of donating?

Accepted Answer

Always. Load-in, greeting, and strike crews are the backbone of every night — tell us which campus is closest to you and we'll get you on the list.

Question 15

Can you bring a night to our campus?

Accepted Answer

We produce events across LA County and we're always talking to new partners — campuses, cities, parks, and neighborhood organizations. Start with the contact page and tell us about your lawn.

Question 16

What does a venue need to provide?

Accepted Answer

Open lawn or quad, power within reach, restroom access, and a campus contact who can clear a night. We bring projection, sound, and crew.

Question 17

Can press or photographers attend?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Let us know before showtime so we can point you at the right vantage and keep you clear of the projection throw.

FAQ

Attending a night

Students and musicians

Supporting the work

Hosting and partnering

Still have a question?