OBJECTIVES
Mission
To promote an understanding of performing arts and of Shakespeare in the high school literature curriculum by presenting free programming and professional productions of the playwright’s works.
Create Community
· Hosting a theatre festival that is free of charge to the entire community regardless of age, gender, race, and economic standing.
· Hiring professional actors and technicians from across the country and board them with local families to establish a sense of national community and connection.
· Providing opportunities for local businesses and individuals to make donations, either financial or in kind, and to sponsor performances and enhance the quality of life in community.
· Resurrecting the love of Shakespeare in this community in the space that was formerly used by the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, at Anniston High’s APAC: the Anniston Performing Arts Center.
Educate
· Having hired professionals work alongside local students studying theatre or interested in theatre, providing professional apprenticeships.
· Gearing Shakespeare’s classic works to younger audiences by compressing the plays to 90 minutes, which also makes school shows possible during the day.
· Allowing the play to be selected by the high school teachers, based on their curriculum.
· Offering schools and teachers workshops facilitated through our local Jacksonville State University and taught by visiting professionals or students working to become te3achers or teaching artists.
Promote the Arts
· Breaking boundaries between “elevated” text and the public, making professional performances accessible to those who may have never seen a play before.
· Collaborating with local arts organizations to provide experience and training, and to share established resources.
· Compiling resources and educational opportunities tailored to the needs of local teachers.
· Partnering with the local university, which serve as the fiscal sponsor, provides a rehearsal and build space, and offers its students experience in professional Shakespeare production.