Circle Theatre

Circle Theatre is a prominent regional theatre located in Fort Worth, Texas, known for its dedication to presenting professional, innovative theatre in an intimate setting. The theatre was founded in 1981 by Rose Pearson and Bill Newberry, and since its inception, it has become a vital part of the city's cultural landscape, premiering over 130 plays in its 36 seasons. The name "Circle Theatre" originates from its initial location on Bluebonnet Circle. In 1987, the theatre moved to Fort Worth's historic Southside, and in 1994, it settled into its current home in the basement space of the Sanger Building, situated in the bustling Sundance Square entertainment district. This move to Sundance Square allowed Circle Theatre to contribute significantly to the downtown Fort Worth culture. The theatre's 125-seat thrust stage offers a cozy atmosphere, allowing patrons to be close to the action and enhancing their theatrical experience. Circle Theatre operates as a Small Professional Theatre (SPT) with Actors' Equity, demonstrating its commitment to providing employment opportunities for artists pursuing careers in Texas. It also offers the chance for actors and stage managers to join the Equity Membership Candidacy Program. Additionally, Circle Theatre serves as an insured umbrella paymaster for other Texas theatres employing Equity actors as guest artists. The theatre presents a year-round main stage season of five plays, each with an average run of 20 performances. Many of these shows are often regional premieres or new scripts staged for the second or third time. Circle Theatre also co-sponsors an annual High School Playwriting Project, culminating in a public presentation where experienced actors read finalist scripts by local students. Over the years, Circle Theatre's plays and performances have garnered numerous accolades and have been frequently included on "Best of Year" lists. Critic Mark Lowry, writing for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and TheatreJones.com, noted that Circle Theatre had the "best batting average on the stage" and was the most-cited theater in his Top Ten lists each year from the Aughts, with 12 shows mentioned. In August 2016, the theatre community mourned the loss of Co-founder and Executive Director Rose Pearson, who had worked tirelessly to ensure the Theatre's future. Following her passing, Bill Newberry, her husband and Co-founder of Circle Theatre, stepped in as the Executive Director until his retirement in 2017. Tim Long, with 18 years of involvement with the theatre, took over as the new Executive Director. Circle Theatre continues to honor Rose Pearson's legacy by maintaining an active role in the regional theatre movement in Fort Worth.