The world as we know it is shifting dramatically, like the movement of a river carving a new path through the landscape. The tendency is to long for the days of the past, and certainly, there are practices from our history that remain valuable and should be upheld. However, nostalgia can be a double-edged sword. What one individual remembers as a golden age, another may recall as a time of discrimination, inequity, and silencing.
What do we do in these ever-changing times? We hold tightly to the values that center our humanity, honor our shared experiences, and heighten our care for one another. As our foundation shifts, we should consider seeking out the stories that help us make sense of these transformations—narratives that remind us of our shared humanity and the complexities of our world.
In this issue of American Theatre, there is an impactful article about Trinity Rep’s production of Someone Will Remember Us. Here, for soldiers on the front lines of war and devastation, the question of who is an enemy and a friend is never simple. American soldiers, in war and life, have learned that the human experience cannot be reduced to right and wrong. Many of us long for peace, but we must also recognize that achieving this is not a passive act. To realize peace we need to be prepared to start a movement, develop strategic action, and have tremendous courage.
Also in this issue, we share an update on We See You, White American Theater, a movement that emerged in 2020 to call for equity and systemic change. This work is essential to the continued evolution of our field.
At TCG, we are committed to fueling a movement that honors our humanity and recognizes the critical role the arts—and theatre in particular—play in shaping hearts, minds, and society. The impact of theatre extends far beyond the stage; it influences communities, sparks dialogue, and fosters empathy. We are not at a precipice, even though it may feel that way.
Our industry is facing immense challenges and disruptions. Despite these challenges, our collaboration positions us to advance toward the vibrant theatre community we all aspire to create. Producing theatre requires many players. When we center the humanity of others in our work, we invite divine creativity to the forefront. Growth requires change—not a return to the past, but an embrace of the diverse voices around us to create a new, inclusive future together.
We don’t need to agree on everything, but we must agree that every member of the theatre ecology plays a vital role and that our interdependence benefits us all. Collectively, we have the power to forge successful careers and sustain a movement that encompasses love, kindness, and flourishing in our theatre ecosystem.
With renewed energy, TCG is expanding the National Council for American Theatre (NCAT), a national network of dedicated board members from regional theatres, celebrities, producers, theatre leaders, and enthusiasts committed to governance, advocacy, and ensuring theatre’s ongoing relevance in our communities and for future generations. Our collective work will help guarantee that future generations have the opportunity to experience the transformative magic of theatre. We all want that, don’t we? So let’s get to work.
This year, we are committed to elevating advocacy and governance, conducting research that fuels innovation, and equipping theatres with the tools to pivot and partner for a stronger ecology. We will continue to create professional development opportunities that empower theatremakers to grow and adapt.
Join TCG in a movement towards a thriving theatre ecology. Through advocacy at the regional and national levels, we will soar together in our collective action. We are here with you in this fight. Let’s move forward together.
LaTeshia Ellerson is TCG’s co-executive director, national engagement.
