What is the definition of regional theater or resident theater in the United States?

Regional theater, also known as resident theater, in the United States refers to a professional or semi-professional theater company that produces its own seasons. The term "regional theater" most commonly designates a professional theater located outside of New York City. These theaters may operate on a for-profit or non-profit basis and can be unionized or non-unionized.

How does the programming of regional theaters typically differ from that of Broadway productions?

Regional theaters often produce new plays and works that may not possess the immediate commercial appeal required for a Broadway production. This allows them more freedom to experiment with less conventional or unknown material.

How does a loyal audience base benefit regional theaters?

Some regional theaters benefit from a dedicated and predictable audience base, which grants them the flexibility to take risks and stage experimental or non-commercial works.

What recognition did regional theaters receive from Time magazine in 2003?

In 2003, Time magazine acknowledged the significant contribution of regional theaters, praising them for enriching the overall theater culture within the United States.

What role do some regional theaters play in the development pipeline for Broadway shows?

Certain regional theaters serve as "out-of-town tryout" venues for shows intended for Broadway, providing a testing ground for adjustments and refinements before their New York premiere. They may also host touring Broadway productions.

What types of stages do many regional theaters utilize in their facilities?

Many regional theaters operate multiple stages, typically including a main stage for larger productions and one or more additional spaces, such as studio theaters or black box theaters, for smaller, more experimental performances.

Beyond ticket sales, what are the primary sources of financial support for regional theaters?

In addition to box-office revenue, regional theaters rely on financial support from individual patrons and businesses through donations, season ticket subscriptions, and grants from various foundations and government entities.

What criticism have some regional theaters faced regarding their programming choices?

Some critics have pointed out that regional theaters can be conservative in their show selections, potentially tailoring their programming to appease the demographic preferences of their subscriber base and donors.

Which specific regional theaters are recognized for their work in developing new plays?

Theaters such as the Alley Theatre, Long Wharf Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, McCarter Theatre, and Berkeley Repertory Theatre are recognized for their work in developing new plays.

What is a common objective for regional theaters that focus on developing new theatrical works?

Theaters that focus on developing new plays often aim to transfer these productions to Broadway venues in New York City, seeking a wider audience and commercial success.

How do regional theaters typically engage with younger audiences?

Many regional theaters conduct educational outreach programs designed to introduce and engage young audiences with the performing arts.

What kind of collaborations are common between regional theaters and university theater programs?

Cooperative programs with nearby university theater departments are common, such as the partnership between Asolo Repertory Theatre and Florida State University for the Florida State University/Asolo Conservatory for Actor Training.

What are the two major organizations that support resident theaters in the United States?

The two major organizations dedicated to the welfare of resident theaters in the United States are the League of Resident Theatres (LORT) and the Theatre Communications Group (TCG).

What are the key functions performed by the League of Resident Theatres (LORT) for its member organizations?

LORT represents its member theaters in collective bargaining with unions like Actors' Equity Association, United Scenic Artists, and the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society. It also acts as a representative before government agencies on labor relations issues and helps manage disputes between members and their employees or union representatives.

How many LORT theaters are currently in operation, and across how many states are they located?

Currently, there are 74 LORT theaters situated across 29 states and the District of Columbia.

What is the mission of the Theatre Communications Group (TCG), and how extensive is its membership?

TCG's mission is to support resident theaters. Its constituency has expanded significantly over time, now encompassing more than 700 member theaters throughout the United States.

What key resources and publications does the Theatre Communications Group (TCG) provide?

TCG publishes "American Theatre Magazine," the online employment bulletin "ARTSEARCH," and disseminates dramatic literature.

How does the American Theatre Wing acknowledge the significance of regional theaters in the U.S. theater landscape?

The American Theatre Wing annually presents a Regional Theatre Tony Award during the Tony Awards ceremony to honor a distinguished regional theater.

Which professional body is responsible for recommending the recipient of the Regional Theatre Tony Award?

The American Theatre Critics Association is responsible for recommending the theater that will receive the Regional Theatre Tony Award.

What is the monetary value of the grant awarded with the Regional Theatre Tony Award?

The Regional Theatre Tony Award comes with a grant of $25,000.

During which period did the Little Theatre Movement emerge, and what was its primary objective?

The Little Theatre Movement emerged during the second and third decades of the twentieth century. Its primary objective was to move away from the conservative and mainstream ideologies that dominated Broadway theater at the time.

What impact did the Little Theatre Movement have on the American stage?

The Little Theatre Movement served as a precursor to the Regional Theater Movement, fostering experimentation and the exploration of social issues through drama. It significantly altered the American stage, creating space for new works and new audiences.

How has the number of regional theaters in the U.S. grown since the mid-20th century?

The number of regional theaters in the U.S. grew dramatically from only 23 when the first national organization of nonprofit theaters was formed in 1961, to approximately 1,800 by 2003.

What specific criticism do nonprofit regional theaters sometimes face due to their funding model?

As nonprofit organizations, regional theaters are heavily reliant on donations. This reliance has led to accusations that some theaters compromise their artistic integrity by "pandering to the audience" to secure necessary funding.

Despite potential criticisms, what advantage do nonprofit regional theaters possess compared to commercial theaters?

Nonprofit regional theaters generally face less pressure regarding commercial success compared to their for-profit counterparts.

Can you provide examples of theaters that are members of the League of Resident Theatres (LORT)?

Examples of LORT member theaters include Arena Stage, Center Theatre Group / Mark Taper Forum, Long Wharf Theatre, American Conservatory Theater, Actors Theatre of Louisville, Trinity Repertory Company, Guthrie Theater, Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Old Globe Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, American Repertory Theatre, San Francisco Mime Troupe, South Coast Repertory, Hartford Stage, Seattle Repertory Theatre, Yale Repertory Theatre, Goodman Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, McCarter Theatre, Goodspeed Musicals, Alley Theatre, Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Crossroads Theatre, and Utah Shakespeare Festival.

Which theaters have been recognized with the Regional Theatre Tony Award?

Theaters recognized with the Regional Theatre Tony Award include Barter Theatre, Arena Stage, Center Theatre Group / Mark Taper Forum, Long Wharf Theatre, American Conservatory Theater, Actors Theatre of Louisville, Trinity Repertory Company, Guthrie Theater, Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Old Globe Theatre, Steppenwolf Theatre Company, American Repertory Theatre, San Francisco Mime Troupe, South Coast Repertory, Hartford Stage, Seattle Repertory Theatre, Yale Repertory Theatre, Goodman Theatre, La Jolla Playhouse, McCarter Theatre, Goodspeed Musicals, Alley Theatre, Berkeley Repertory Theatre, Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Crossroads Theatre, Utah Shakespeare Festival, Victory Gardens Theater, Williamstown Theatre Festival, Children's Theatre Company, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park, Theatre de la Jeune Lune, Intiman Playhouse, Alliance Theatre, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Signature Theatre (Arlington, VA), Eugene O'Neill Theater Center, Lookingglass Theatre Company, Shakespeare Theatre Company, Huntington Theatre Company, Signature Theatre Company (New York City), Cleveland Play House, Paper Mill Playhouse, Dallas Theater Center, La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club, TheatreWorks (Silicon Valley), Court Theatre, and Pasadena Playhouse.

What does the term 'playhouse' often specifically denote within the context of American theater?

The term 'playhouse' is frequently used to specifically refer to a regional theater or resident theater.

Is unionization a mandatory characteristic for all regional theaters?

No, a regional theater may or may not be unionized; this is not a requirement for its classification.

What is the purpose of an 'out-of-town tryout' for a regional theater?

An 'out-of-town tryout' refers to a practice where some regional theaters serve as testing grounds for shows that are being prepared for a Broadway production, allowing for adjustments before the New York opening.

For what types of productions are 'black box theaters' typically utilized in regional theater settings?

Black box theaters, often used as smaller, secondary stages in regional theater complexes, are typically employed for more experimental or intimate productions.

How has the membership base of the Theatre Communications Group (TCG) evolved over time?

TCG's constituency has grown significantly, now encompassing more than 700 member theaters across the United States.

Which professional critics' association plays a role in recommending the recipient for the Regional Theatre Tony Award?

The American Theatre Critics Association plays a role in recommending the theater that will receive the Regional Theatre Tony Award.

What was the fundamental goal driving the Little Theatre Movement?

The fundamental goal of the Little Theatre Movement was to diverge from the conservative and mainstream ideologies prevalent in Broadway theater during its era.

In what way is the Little Theatre Movement considered a precursor to the Regional Theater Movement?

The Little Theatre Movement is considered a precursor because it laid the groundwork for experimentation and alternative theatrical approaches that were later embraced and expanded upon by the Regional Theater Movement.

Can you quantify the growth in the number of regional theaters in the U.S. between 1961 and 2003?

Between 1961, when there were only 23 regional theaters, and 2003, the number of regional theaters in the U.S. expanded dramatically to approximately 1,800.

What is an alternative term used for regional theater in the United States?

An alternative term commonly used for regional theater in the United States is 'resident theater'.

Does the term 'regional theater' exclusively refer to theaters located outside of New York City?

While the term 'regional theater' most often designates professional theaters located outside of New York City, the core definition applies to any professional or semi-professional theater company that produces its own seasons.

What are the primary sources of funding for regional theaters, in addition to ticket sales?

Regional theaters rely on a diverse funding model that includes donations from patrons and businesses, revenue from season ticket subscriptions, and grants from foundations and government bodies, alongside box-office income.

How might the financial reliance on donations influence artistic decisions in regional theaters?

The financial dependence on donations can sometimes lead to criticism that regional theaters might subordinate their artistic ideals to accommodate the preferences of their donors and subscribers, a practice sometimes referred to as 'pandering to the audience'.

What are the key publications associated with the Theatre Communications Group (TCG)?

The key publications associated with the Theatre Communications Group (TCG) include 'American Theatre Magazine,' the online employment bulletin 'ARTSEARCH,' and disseminated dramatic literature.

How much financial support does the Regional Theatre Tony Award provide to its recipient?

The Regional Theatre Tony Award provides a grant of $25,000 to its recipient.

What specific interests did theater artists in the Little Theatre Movement aim to explore through their work?

Theater artists involved in the Little Theatre Movement were particularly interested in experimentation and exploring social issues through the dramatic arts.

What is the total number of LORT theaters currently operating in the United States?

There are currently 74 LORT theaters operating in the United States.

Which theatrical movement is identified in the text as a precursor to the Regional Theater Movement?

The Little Theatre Movement is identified in the text as a precursor to the Regional Theater Movement.

In the context of theater, what does the term 'play' refer to?

In the context of theater, a 'play' refers to a dramatic work written for performance on a stage.

What is a 'stage' within a theatrical setting?

A 'stage' in a theatrical setting is the physical platform or designated area where performances are presented to an audience.

What does the term 'box office' signify in the realm of theater?

The 'box office' signifies the location where tickets are sold and, by extension, refers to the revenue generated from ticket sales.

What is the definition of a 'trade union' as mentioned in relation to theatrical organizations?

A 'trade union' is an organization formed by workers to protect and advance their rights and interests, often engaging in collective bargaining with employers.

What is a 'black box theater'?

A 'black box theater' is a type of performance space, typically a simple, large, open room with black walls, floor, and ceiling, often used for experimental productions due to its flexibility.

Regional Theater In The United States Wiki: American Stages: The Pulse of Regional Theater

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Overview

Defining Regional Theater

In the United States, a regional theater, often referred to as a resident theater, is a professional or semi-professional company dedicated to producing its own distinct seasons of performances. The term commonly denotes professional theatrical entities situated outside the major hub of New York City. These organizations may operate as for-profit or non-profit entities and can be unionized or non-unionized. The term "playhouse" is frequently employed to specifically identify this type of venue.

Artistic Mission and Scope

Regional theaters frequently stage new works and productions that may not possess the broad commercial appeal typically sought by Broadway venues.^[1] A dedicated and consistent audience base often allows these companies the creative freedom to experiment with lesser-known or "non-commercial" plays. In 2003, Time magazine recognized regional theaters for their significant contributions to enriching the theatrical landscape across the United States.^[1] Furthermore, some regional theaters serve as crucial "out-of-town tryout" locations for shows destined for Broadway, while others may host touring Broadway productions.

Operational Structure

Many regional theaters operate multiple performance spaces. This typically includes a main stage designed for productions requiring larger casts and elaborate sets, alongside one or more additional venues, such as studio theaters or flexible black box spaces, which are ideal for smaller, more experimental productions.^[2]

Funding and Audience Engagement

Beyond revenue generated from ticket sales, regional theaters rely significantly on philanthropic support, including donations from individual patrons and corporate sponsors, season ticket subscriptions, and grants from foundations and governmental bodies.^[2] However, some critics argue that this reliance on donor support can lead to a degree of conservatism in programming choices, potentially prioritizing audience demographics and donor preferences over artistic risk-taking.^[2]

Key Organizations

League of Resident Theatres (LORT)

The League of Resident Theatres (LORT) is a primary professional association representing regional theaters in the United States. It comprises 74 member theaters situated across 29 states and the District of Columbia.^[4] LORT plays a pivotal role in collective bargaining with major theatrical unions, including Actors' Equity Association, United Scenic Artists, and the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society. It also provides representation before government agencies on labor relations matters and facilitates the resolution of disputes between member theaters and their employees or union representatives.^[5]^[6]

Theatre Communications Group (TCG)

The Theatre Communications Group (TCG) is another significant national organization dedicated to the advancement of non-profit theater in the United States. Its membership has expanded to include over 700 institutions nationwide.^[7] TCG actively promotes communication and fosters positive relationships among its members and within the broader community. It supports the field through various publications and resources, including the esteemed American Theatre Magazine and the ARTSEARCH online employment bulletin, alongside the dissemination of dramatic literature.^[8]

Recognition and Awards

The Regional Theatre Tony Award

In acknowledgment of the profound importance of regional theaters to the American cultural fabric, the American Theatre Wing bestows a special Regional Theatre Tony Award annually. This prestigious award is presented during the Tony Awards ceremony to one distinguished regional theater. The selection process involves a recommendation from the American Theatre Critics Association, and the recipient theater is honored with a $25,000 grant.^[9]

The list of recipients highlights the diverse and impactful contributions of regional theaters across the nation:

Early Recognition: Barter Theatre (1948)
1976-2000: Arena Stage (1976), Mark Taper Forum (1977), Long Wharf Theatre (1978), American Conservatory Theater (1979), Actors Theatre of Louisville (1980), Trinity Repertory Company (1981), Guthrie Theater (1982), Oregon Shakespeare Festival (1983), Old Globe Theatre (1984), Steppenwolf Theatre Company (1985), American Repertory Theater (1986), San Francisco Mime Troupe (1987), South Coast Repertory (1988), Hartford Stage (1989), Seattle Repertory Theatre (1990), Yale Repertory Theatre (1991), Goodman Theatre (1992), La Jolla Playhouse (1993), McCarter Theatre (1994), Goodspeed Musicals (1995), Alley Theatre (1996), Berkeley Repertory Theatre (1997), Denver Center for the Performing Arts (1998), Crossroads Theatre (1999), Utah Shakespeare Festival (2000).
2001-Present: Victory Gardens Theater (2001), Williamstown Theatre Festival (2002), Children's Theatre Company (2003), Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park (2004), Theatre de la Jeune Lune (2005), Intiman Playhouse (2006), Alliance Theatre (2007), Chicago Shakespeare Theater (2008), Signature Theatre (Arlington, VA) (2009), Eugene O'Neill Theater Center (2010), Lookingglass Theatre Company (2011), Shakespeare Theatre Company (2012), Huntington Theatre Company (2013), Signature Theatre Company (NYC) (2014), Cleveland Play House (2015), Paper Mill Playhouse (2016), Dallas Theater Center (2017), La MaMa Experimental Theatre Club (2018), TheatreWorks (Silicon Valley) (2019), Court Theatre (2022), Pasadena Playhouse (2023), Wilma Theater (Philadelphia) (2024), The Muny (2025).

Historical Evolution

The Little Theatre Movement

The roots of the regional theater movement can be traced back to the early 20th century with the rise of the Little Theatre Movement. Emerging between the 1910s and 1930s, this movement represented a deliberate departure from the established, mainstream commercialism of Broadway. Theater artists sought greater freedom for experimentation, aiming to explore social issues and cultivate new audiences through more intimate and artistically driven productions.^[10] This influential period significantly reshaped the American stage, paving the way for future innovations and diverse theatrical voices.^[11]

Growth and Transformation

The formal establishment of national organizations marked a significant phase in the development of resident theater. In 1961, the first national organization represented just 23 regional theaters. By 2003, this number had dramatically expanded to approximately 1,800 regional theaters across the United States.^[1] This substantial growth underscores the increasing prominence and reach of regional theater.

Success and Controversy

While the proliferation of nonprofit regional theaters has been a remarkable success story, it has also generated debate. The substantial reliance on donations from patrons has led some to critique certain theaters for potentially "pandering to the audience," suggesting that artistic integrity might be compromised to satisfy the expectations of subscribers and donors.^[12] Despite these concerns, nonprofit theaters generally operate with less direct commercial pressure compared to their for-profit counterparts.

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References

Whitehead, Jaan. "Art Will Out"[1], American Theatre, October 2002.

"For Institutions: Is Art the Bottom Line?"[2], American Theatre, May/June 2003.

"Composing Ourselves": The Little Theatre Movement and the American Audience, Dorothy Chansky. Carbondale: Southern Illinois University Press, 2004

A full list of references for this article are available at the Regional theater in the United States Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

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Disclaimer

Important Notice

This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. The content is derived from a snapshot of publicly available data and may not represent the most current or complete information available.

This is not professional advice. The information presented herein does not constitute professional advice regarding theater production, arts management, or cultural criticism. It is essential to consult official documentation, industry resources, and qualified professionals for specific inquiries or applications related to the performing arts.

The creators of this page assume no liability for any errors or omissions, nor for any actions taken based on the information provided.

American Stages

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

🎭 Defining Regional Theater

🌟 Artistic Mission and Scope

🏢 Operational Structure

💰 Funding and Audience Engagement

Key Organizations 🏛️

🤝 League of Resident Theatres (LORT)

📚 Theatre Communications Group (TCG)

Recognition and Awards 🏆

🏅 The Regional Theatre Tony Award

Historical Evolution ⏳

📜 The Little Theatre Movement

📈 Growth and Transformation

🤔 Success and Controversy

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Defining Regional Theater

Artistic Mission and Scope

Operational Structure

Funding and Audience Engagement

Key Organizations

League of Resident Theatres (LORT)

Theatre Communications Group (TCG)

Recognition and Awards

The Regional Theatre Tony Award

Historical Evolution

The Little Theatre Movement

Growth and Transformation

Success and Controversy

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice