Enriching the Performing Arts

Stew with Heidi Rodewald, 2019

Our origins are humble. What began as our co-directors’ dream to run a small theatre in rural Ancram—starting out with few resources beyond their passion and determination—has become so much more. Over eight seasons, Ancram Center has garnered acclaim from audiences for our fresh, innovative contemporary performances and received numerous Berkshire Theatre Critics’ Awards and nominations. Our commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in the arts is also central to our work; we have been home to nationally recognized artists such as Heather Christian, Diana Oh, Stew, and Taylor Mac as they developed new projects. To ensure that this exemplary and diverse programming can be enjoyed for years to come, priorities include:

 

•In survey after survey, audiences have asked for more theatre offerings. We’re thrilled with this feedback but, to achieve it, additional resources are needed as ticket sales never cover the cost of mounting a show. Funds will support expanding from two to three fully staged theatre productions each season.

• For too long, we’ve relied on artists to accept fees lower than what is considered typical compensation in our field. We want to pay our talented artists equitable wages, consistent with industry standards. We also seek to provide interns with a livable stipend so that professional development opportunities are available to all, regardless of economic circumstances.

• Ancram Center seeks to be at the forefront in the development of bold new performances for the American theatre, created by artists of diverse backgrounds. Funds will support commissioning fees to enable artists the time and space to create.

• Providing the community with an annual family offering helps to build audiences for the future. We are also committed to producing theatre that is accessible to all through tiered ticket pricing.

Diana Oh, 2018

 

An Iliad, 2021

 

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

We highly value our interns and provide internships that lead to sustaining careers for local young adults. We have a track record of hiring former interns in professional, paid positions while others leverage their experience to obtain high-level, competitive positions in the field of theatre. Dutchess Community College regularly provides interns; their students as well as those from other schools are often unable to participate when housing isn’t offered. The Annex accommodations will make our internship program more available for all.