Baltimore Theatre Project

Mission Statement:
Theatre Project -- through the presentation of a diverse array of original and experimental theatre, music, and dance -- connects the artists and audiences of Baltimore with a global community of performers. We seek to nurture those artists who are actively experimenting with new forms of expression and support both performers of international reputation and emerging local companies creating new work.

History of Theatre Project:
Theatre Project was founded by Philip Arnoult in 1971. The early years hosted presentations of artists such as Pilobolus Dance Theater, Urban Bush Women, and Bread and Puppet Theatre, and community outreach programs such as the Baltimore Neighborhood Arts Circus and Baltimore Voices. Arnoult established Theatre Project and Baltimore as a factor on the international theater scene, and increasingly Theatre Project became known for a dynamic mix of experimental national and international presentations. Theatre Project was a co-producer of The New Theatre (TNT) Festivals at University of Maryland Baltimore County and in downtown Baltimore (1976-1979). The theater was crucial to the selection of Baltimore as the 1986 site of the prestigious International Theatre Institute's biennial Theatre of Nations Festival, the festival's only North American location.

In 1983-84, Theatre Project underwent an extensive restructuring that included the renovation of its historic 45 West Preston Street home. The resulting space is a gem with a sprung wood floor measuring 33'x35', backed by the original 20' acoustic dome. There are 150 seats, all unobstructed. In 1994, Theatre Project again modernized its facility with the addition of chair lifts providing handicapped accessibility.

In 1992, Theatre Project came under the direction of Robert Mrozek. During his tenure, artists like Karen Finley, Danny Hoch, Holly Hughes, James Magruder, da da kamera's Daniel McIvor, Squonk Opera, and David Drake (The Night Larry Kramer Kissed Me) developed and/or premiered work at Theatre Project.

In the Fall of 2001 Anne Cantler Fulwiler, a board member and former employee became the theatre's director. Anne has a background that includes work in New York for companies like Meredith Monk/The House Foundation and Obie Award-winning MCC Theatre, and service as Program Associate at Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation and Associate Director of Development at Center Stage. Under her direction, Theatre Project has continued its reputation for outstanding service to artists, initiated an exciting new subscription series, increased community outreach, and improved its financial stability.