Arts Access Grant

The public will cultivate awareness of how theatre moves beyond entertainment-value and prompts thinking about social, cultural, and economic issues through their viewing and a guided discussion of new plays. Teams will work with theatre professionals from across the US, which will expand our skills by exposing us to a wider variety of artistic practices than are already available in Bemidji. All components are free to improve economic access to theatre for participants and audiences. Evaluation methods include surveys administered immediately after the performance to measure public and participant impressions about theatre's purpose beyond only-entertainment and the processes of new play development. Additional evaluation will come from a discussed analysis (by the producer and professional team) of the process, product, and adaptations needed for future Voices projects ensure that the production meets its mission.