Double Edge Theatre

Double Edge Theatre (DE) is an innovative and influential performing arts organization with a rich history rooted in feminist principles and a commitment to art justice, cultural sustainability, and living culture. Founded in 1982 in Boston, Massachusetts, by Stacy Klein and co-founder Carroll Durand, along with several other women, DE began as a feminist ensemble collective named the Women's Cycle. The ensemble's early work included a series of adapted plays such as "Rites" by Maureen Duffy and "My Sister in this House" by Wendy Kesselman, performed in various Boston theatres. In 1985, DE found a long-unused parish hall in Allston, MA, which became its home for the next 12 years and allowed the ensemble to develop a full-time practice. This period was marked by the creation of the Song Trilogy Cycle and the extra-theatrical Republic of Dreams projects, which were influenced by the ensemble's international work in Central Europe and their research into the region's culture and history. The move to the rural town of Ashfield in 1994 was a pivotal moment for DE, prompted by the economic challenges of maintaining space in Boston and the desire to host overseas guest artists. Despite initial resistance from some local residents, DE found support among the Ashfield community and established its first performance space, the Barn. The transition to Ashfield proved essential for the ensemble's survival and growth. Under the artistic direction of Stacy Klein, DE has created seven performance cycles that have toured internationally. Notable works include "The Garden of Intimacy and Desire" (2002-2008), exploring magic realism in Jewish and Hispanic cultures, and "The Chagall Cycle" (2010-2015), inspired entirely by the visual art of Marc Chagall. The Latin American Cycle (2015-2018) was a significant undertaking that addressed Co-Artistic Director Carlos Uriona's socio-cultural background and offered a powerful commentary on fascism and the disappeared. This cycle also fostered artistic collaborations and mentorships with Latino artists and students from across the Americas. DE's engagement with the local community is exemplified by the Ashfield Town Spectacle & Culture Fair and the We the People Summer events, which celebrated the history of Ashfield and the surrounding Hilltowns with the participation of local artists and residents. The most recent Surrealist Cycle, initiated in 2017, explores themes of surrealism and includes performances inspired by the work of Leonora Carrington. Associate Artistic Director Travis Coe's solo performance "SUGA" is a part of this cycle, delving into his multifaceted identity. Double Edge Theatre acknowledges the Indigenous Peoples of the land, the Nipmuc, the Mohican, and Pocumtuc Nations, and recognizes the contributions of African descendants to the region. The organization is committed to truth, reconciliation, rematriation, and healing through acknowledgment, reparations, and restorative actions. Located at 948 Conway Road, Ashfield, MA, Double Edge Theatre continues to foster a space for artistic exploration, collaboration, and community engagement, ensuring that its work reflects the diverse population of the region and upholds the values of equity and solidarity.