Theatre is not a clock-in, clock-out job, and the spaces that try to treat artists like obedient employees are actively damaging the work.

“Community theatre wasn’t my stepping stone; it was my lifeline.”

As Romeo and Juliet opens, Orlando Shakes is also responding to online hate directed at the production. Their message underscores an important truth: theatres have a responsibility not just to program boldly, but to actively protect the artists who bring that work to life.

It took me years to learn that these are things I needed to have with me at all times backstage.

"Not every show is right for your stage. If your community doesn’t have the type of talent a show requires, you probably shouldn’t do it."