Our Vision

As the latest iteration of the Shakespeare and Performance MFA training program at Mary Baldwin University, we are continually growing our craft as artists. Each production in our season intentionally invites discourse that weaves itself into the fabric of our community. Theatre is not created in a vacuum and our stories inspire new perspectives and activate opportunities for change outside the walls of the theater.

We embrace individuality.

Our company rejects the idea that the early modern canon is universal. Through our exploration of these works in rehearsal, we commit to uplifting our personal identities and unapologetically reveling in our differences.

We focus our creative energies on interpreting these stories through a queer and feminist lens.

No stage in our process will utilize generative AI, because only humans are capable of creativity.

We invite discourse.

To us, a compelling product is a production through which we can spark discussion and advocate for pushing the boundaries of societal and theatrical norms.

We aim to push back on the glorification of the classical canon. We acknowledge that early modern texts can tell important stories, but that doesn’t mean their harmful flaws can be ignored.

We engage with the complexities of these texts, and encourage our audiences to join us in questioning what these stories mean today.

We value impact over profit.

We are dedicated to using our performances as a source of fundraising and outreach for the Shenandoah Valley by partnering with local businesses and organizations throughout our season.

We offer affordable touring educational performances that can meet you where you’re at, providing both enriching performances and Virginia SOL-applicable workshops.

We invite our audiences to grow along with us by providing dramaturgical support that facilitates action relevant to the themes and messaging of the story.