Shakespeare Center LA

==Shakespeare Center of Los Angeles== ===History=== The Shakespeare Center of Los Angeles (SCLA), originally known as Shakespeare Festival/LA, has been a beacon of the arts community since its inception in 1986. The organization's first Summer Festival featured performances of "Twelfth Night" in Pershing Square, drawing an eclectic audience that included local residents, theater enthusiasts, and the homeless population of the area. The involvement of the homeless community in the promotion and management of the festival highlighted the inclusive spirit of SCLA. This spirit was further embodied by the creation of the "Food for Thought" admission policy by Artistic Director Ben Donenberg, which allowed patrons to donate food for the needy in lieu of purchasing a ticket. In 1993, SCLA broadened its reach with the launch of outreach programs like "Will Power to Youth," which provides at-risk youth with artistic experiences coupled with paid job training. By January 2000, the organization cemented its presence in the Los Angeles arts scene by acquiring a permanent downtown headquarters. This location was strategically chosen for its proximity to three Title One high schools, serving a significant portion of the city's youth living at or below the poverty line. Over the years, SCLA has established itself as a national leader in the intersection of arts and human services, forging partnerships with various governmental and educational institutions, including the Department of Justice, the Department of Mental Health, the US Department of Veteran Affairs, and the Los Angeles Unified School District. ===Mission and Programs=== The mission of the Shakespeare Center of Los Angeles is to foster a love and understanding of Shakespeare's work by making it accessible to all, with a particular focus on social justice and community engagement. The center's programs, such as "Shakespeare & Social Justice," "Will Power Programs," and "Veterans in Art," reflect its commitment to using Shakespeare's works as a tool for education, empowerment, and healing. One of the center's notable initiatives is "Will Power to Youth," which combines Shakespearean theater with job training for young people, providing them with a unique opportunity to develop both their artistic talents and professional skills. Similarly, "Veterans in Art" is a program designed to support military veterans through the arts, offering employment opportunities and a platform for creative expression. The SCLA also offers a range of educational resources, including teacher inquiry groups, professional development workshops, and a comprehensive Macbeth study guide. These resources aim to support educators in bringing Shakespeare's works to life for their students. ===Venue and Community Engagement=== SCLA's headquarters not only serves as a venue for its programs but is also available for rental, providing a space for community events and performances. The organization's commitment to community engagement is further demonstrated through its COVID-19 policy, which ensures the safety and well-being of participants and audiences alike. ===Support and Recognition=== As a tax-exempt, non-profit corporation, SCLA relies on donations and support from the community. The center offers various ways for individuals to contribute, including the "Donate Now" initiative and the "Simply Shakespeare" events. Donations to SCLA are tax-deductible, with the organization's IRS 501(c)(3) Determination Letter available for public reference. The Shakespeare Center of Los Angeles has been recognized for its impactful programs through an inspirational documentary created by the National Endowment for the Arts, which features the center's award-winning initiatives and dedicated staff. ===Contact Information=== For those interested in learning more about the Shakespeare Center of Los Angeles, participating in its programs, or supporting its mission, the organization can be contacted through its official website, where individuals can also join the email list for updates and announcements.