Project Grant

The main outcome we hope to achieve is to introduce classic theatre to a new audience in Central Minnesota, namely our students. Through the outreach and educational programs that are associated with this production and the Shakespeare Festival as a whole, we will bring this art form directly to this audience. Secondly, we hope entertain and engage our theatre-going public with a creative, professional production of one of the world's greatest works. Third, we will employ professional artists who have dedicated much of their lives to performing classic theatre by supplying them with a venue and audience. Finally, and very importantly, we hope to continue to build strong relationships with other arts organization in Central Minnesota by participating in this collaborative effort. By introducing students to classic theatre at a young age, our hope is this art form will be allowed to continue into coming generations. It is critical that the experience of Shakespeare is positive from the onset of introduction. And that is why our artistic team will be personally engaged with this young audience through the outreach described previously. Additionally, through the Artist Spotlight series, we will reach out to adult audiences to share in a talkback session where we can all learn from Shakespeare's message and how it applies to our world today. Our artists will grow in their craft be sharing their experiences and knowledge with a younger generation which will not only enhance our youth, it will give our artists a positive experience with our community.Participation will be a key measurement tool to ensure we are meeting our goals. Besides measuring the success at the box office by monitoring the attendance, the outreach programs associated with this show will be measured as well. Working with Sartell High School, Sauk Rapids-Rice, and the St Cloud School District, the goal is to pair our creative team and cast with students to further research, discuss, and workshop Shakespeare. Romeo and Juliet is on the curriculum in the school districts and talks have already taken place to bring our team into the schools as part of the Shakespeare Festival. Adult audiences will also be measured through two mechanisms. First, a survey is being developed that will be distributed to audiences garnering feedback as to the Shakespeare Festival concept and what their experience has been. Secondly, Pioneer Place will host an Artist Spotlight on Monday, March 26 where our audience is invited to participate in a free talkback session with the artistic team of Romeo and Juliet for an evening of question and answers regarding the performance and creative choices.