Theater Forward

A Closer Look: The Board of Directors

Amidst the recent fallout at Victory Gardens Theater in Chicago, we examine the role of the Board of Directors and the changing relationship they have with theater administrators and staff. 

Making Accessibility the New Normal

We are joined by Guthrie Theater Accessibility Coordinator Robyn DeCourcy and our very own Director of Audience Development Samara Safarik to talk about the ongoing journey to make the arts accessible to all, and the innovative ways theaters are leading the charge in America. 

State of the Arts (in Education)

We are joined by Khalid Y. Long, PhD (University of Georgia) and Marcella Kearns (UW-Milwaukee). These powerhouse arts educators give us a revealing look at post-pandemic arts education, and how the future crop of artists are rising to the challenge and approaching their craft. 

Most Produced Playwrights in America, 22-23

American Theatre Magazine has released its list for the first time in two years, and we break it all down. FYI the #1 most-produced title is shared by a playwright we are partnering with in spring of 2023... 

”There is No Backstage” - Interview w/ Linda Stephens

Legendary actress Linda Stephens discusses her 50+ year career with an open-hearted, remarkably honest look at what it means to dedicate your life to a profession that demands so much and can give back so little. Her new memoir, There is No Backstage, is a vulnerable, wise and compelling account of a full life lived on the stage.

The ’Hamilton’ Debacle - Copyright Takes the Spotlight

We discuss the hot topic of copyright and licensing rules in the arts, on the heels of two high-profile cases: the unauthorized 'Hamilton' production in Texas and unofficial 'Bridgerton' musical on TikTok. 

Learn more about the 'Hamilton' production: https://bit.ly/3e836BD

Learn more about the 'Bridgerton' musical: https://bit.ly/3czs3FR

Summer Lovin’ - Interview with American Players Theatre and Northern Sky

We check in with our outdoor theater friends, Sara Young (Managing Director) at American Players Theatre and Jeff Herbst (Artistic Director) at Northern Sky Theater. A great conversation about both companies and insight into how theater makers are faring this summer. 

Interview w/ Ten Chimneys’ Randy Bryant

Ten Chimneys is the holy grail attraction for theater lovers. We had the privilege to learn more about this historic estate from President/CEO Randy Bryant, with an inside look at their evolution as an organization.

Our Hot Summer Mailbag Episode

The Broadway/Regional divide, Union beefs, the challenges of expanding a season, dream productions, and a beautiful perspective on talkbacks make this a perfect summer mailbag episode. 

Theater Needs a Check-Up

Live events are back to normal, but theaters and artists are struggling in the wake of COVID. From show cancellations to lagging ticket sales, we dive into our experience as well as what we're hearing from theaters across the country as they try to recover from the last two years.