About Central Square Theater
Central Square Theater: A Hub of Artistic Excellence
Central Square Theater is a cultural hub located in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is the home of two renowned theater companies, The Nora Theatre Company and Underground Railway Theater. Since its inception in 2008, Central Square Theater has been dedicated to producing thought-provoking and socially relevant plays that challenge audiences to think critically about the world around them.
The Nora Theatre Company was founded in 1987 by Marilyn Plotkins and Lee Mikeska Gardner. The company's mission is to produce contemporary plays that explore issues of social justice, diversity, and inclusion. Over the years, The Nora has produced numerous award-winning productions such as "Wit," "The Beauty Queen of Leenane," and "Yellow Face." Under the leadership of artistic director Lee Mikeska Gardner, The Nora continues to push boundaries with its innovative productions that tackle complex themes with sensitivity and nuance.
Underground Railway Theater (URT) was founded in 1978 by a group of artists who were committed to creating socially conscious theater that would inspire change. URT's name pays homage to the Underground Railroad network that helped slaves escape from slavery during the 19th century. Today, URT produces plays for both adults and children that explore issues related to social justice, environmentalism, and human rights. Some notable productions include "The Kite Runner," "Arabian Nights," and "Hansel & Gretel."
Central Square Theater's commitment to producing socially relevant plays has earned it a reputation as one of Boston's premier theaters for thought-provoking drama. Its state-of-the-art facilities include two performance spaces -the Mainstage theater which seats up to 180 people; Black Box theater which seats up to 90 people- rehearsal rooms for actors/actresses/dancers/musicians/performers/artists/etc., costume shop where costumes are designed/made/fitted/repaired/cleaned/etc., scene shop where sets are built/painted/stored/etc.- all equipped with modern lighting/sound/projection systems- making it an ideal venue for both large-scale productions as well as intimate performances.
In addition to producing high-quality theatrical performances throughout the year- including classics like Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” or modern works like “Sweat” by Lynn Nottage-, Central Square Theater also offers educational programs designed for students at all levels from elementary school through college/university level students interested in learning more about theatre arts or pursuing careers within this field themselves! These programs provide hands-on experience working alongside professional actors/directors/designers/technicians while learning about various aspects involved in putting on a production such as acting techniques/stagecraft/lighting design/sound design/costume design/set construction/marketing/public relations/etc.
Central Square Theater also hosts community events throughout the year such as panel discussions/talkbacks/Q&A sessions after shows where audience members can engage directly with artists involved in creating these works; workshops/masterclasses led by industry professionals covering topics ranging from playwriting/screenwriting/directing/choreography/music composition/etc.; special events like holiday-themed shows or fundraisers benefiting local charities/nonprofits/causes; etc.- all aimed at fostering greater engagement between artists/theatergoers/community members alike!
In conclusion: Central Square Theatre is an exceptional cultural institution dedicated not only towards providing top-notch entertainment but also towards promoting social awareness through their thought-provoking theatrical productions! With its state-of-the-art facilities/equipment combined with educational programs/community outreach initiatives/events galore- there truly is something here for everyone interested in exploring theatre arts further! So come check out what makes this place so special today!