Reginald Nelson, the author of the book “How to Start Your Own Theater Company” (Chicago Review Press, 2010), is no longer answering questions, but readers are encouraged to continue to share their experiences and advice with each other.

In response to a question from the head of a small, struggling theater company who’s wondering whether or not to close up shop, Mr. Nelson offers some encouragement:

“If you’re earning a living and are receiving acclaim from the community, I wouldn’t quit. You may just need to ride this recession out before things turn around.”

In his book, Mr. Nelson, an actor and the former managing director of the Chicago-based Congo Square Theater Company, offers guidance on how to build a sustainable ensemble from the ground up. In the book’s introduction, the actor David Schwimmer, a founder of the Chicago-based Lookingglass Theater Company, writes:

The stories of financial crisis, loss of faith, bitter disagreements, devastating reviews, horrific audience attendance, emergency room visits, and brink-of-disaster saves are too numerous to detail. I can’t tell you how many wonderful companies with untold potential we admired over the years — then watched as they suddenly imploded or slowly dissolved, forced to fold, never to be heard from again.

Are you thinking about starting a theater company? What beginners’ mistakes are you hoping to avoid? If you’ve already started one, what are some of the hurdles you need help overcoming? At a time when every penny is being pinched, what are some of the best ways for a fledgling theater company to stay in business?

Submit your questions here, and look for Mr. Nelson’s answers throughout the day Wednesday and Thursday.