Syracuse-Area Theater Companies Found Coalition

Lauching this week, “The District” comes to downtown Syracuse — an exciting new coalition supporting locally-produced theater.

Appleseed Productions, Rarely Done Productions and The Red House are entering into the partnership — “The District” – with plans to invite other area non-profits to join after a founding year of operations.

The District will be promoted with the common language, “connect, build, share.”   The three words represent the center of its mission: to connect partner organizations through an open line of communication, coordinated scheduling and common marketing; to build a relationship among company members, and to share resources, volunteers and artists.

“Syracuse has a long history as a theater town,” said Dan Tursi, Artistic Director for Rarely Done Productions, “that harkens back to the Shubert Brothers, who were born and raised here. This  is an effort to re-capture that heritage. Each company will bring their strengths and knowledge to the table.”

The District will publicize productions through common marketing to include an interactive web site, advertising space and palm cards offering walk-up discounts at box offices.  Plans are underway to connect with the Syracuse University student population through last-minute ticket discounts.

Promotion of plays and musicals will be presented by title and date first, then information directing ticket-buyers to the producing company.  “In every sense of the word, ‘communities’ are being redefined and challenged in the new century,” said CJ Young, Artistic Director for Appleseed Productions.  “This effort is about to put a spotlight on a richness and diversity in local theater, which has started to get lost in the shuffle.”

Long-term goals of The District include a sharing of resources and staffing.  The Red House will be launching an apprenticeship program that will have their artists-in-residence leading local designers, directors and performers in course “intensives,” as well as on-the-project work.   Participating companies will soon establish a common storage space for properties, costumes and furniture.

“As an artist and an art lover, I recognize the importance of being in places where we can share our work and be challenged by other artists and audiences,” said Stephen Svoboda, Artistic Director for The Red House. “This not only stimulates creativity, but allows us to support one another in many ways, from bartering resources to social networking, audience development and creating opportunities for mentorship.”

Both The Red House and Rarely Done Productions are located on the Connective Corridor, and Appleseed Productions is accessible via the south campus loop.  The Connective Corridor looks forward to supporting these important arts and cultural partners!