African-American Shakespeare Company

The African-American Shakespeare Company is a cultural and artistic institution based in San Francisco, California. Founded in 1994, the company was established with the mission to expand the accessibility of classic theatre to a diverse audience and to provide a platform for actors of color to develop their skills in performing some of the most significant classical roles. The organization is dedicated to producing works from the classical theatre canon, including those of Shakespeare and other great American and world playwrights, in a manner that is vibrant, engaging, and relevant to contemporary audiences. The company's values are deeply rooted in creating theatrical experiences that celebrate pride, diversity, and integrity, with a particular emphasis on an African-American aesthetic infused with an American sensibility. The African-American Shakespeare Company is committed to imparting theatrical knowledge, teaching style and content, and sharing classical repertoire with under-represented actors and diverse audiences. It aims to build a sense of community among its audiences, artists, patrons, neighbors, and collaborators, viewing each as an essential stakeholder in the organization. With a belief in the transformative power of the arts, the African-American Shakespeare Company holds that knowledge of the classics can empower communities of color and that these works should be made accessible to historically excluded audiences. The organization recognizes the alienation of the African-American community from time-honored classics and the disparity in arts opportunities available to people of color, particularly youth. It endeavors to reduce and eliminate this disparity through its work. Located at 762 Fulton Street, Suite 306, in San Francisco, the African-American Shakespeare Company is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. It receives funding from various sources, including the San Francisco Arts Commission, San Francisco Grants for the Arts, the California Arts Council (a state agency), the National Endowment for the Arts in cooperation with Arts Midwest, Bay Area Rapid Transit, and Macy's. The company's educational and engagement programs include school partnership programs, youth programs, professional development, and various classes and workshops designed to introduce students and educators to the world of classical theatre. The organization's board of directors, staff, and donors work collaboratively to support its mission and ensure the continued delivery of high-quality theatrical productions and educational initiatives. The African-American Shakespeare Company is a testament to the enduring relevance of classic works and the importance of inclusivity and representation in the arts.