Off-Broadway WP’s Theater, led by producing artistic director Lisa McNulty, is the recipient of a $250,000 grant from the newly formed BOLD Theater Women’s Leadership Circle. WP is one of five theatres who have been gifted the generous grant in support of women artistic directors across the U.S.
The BOLD Theater Women’s Leadership Circle is spearheaded by Carol Dunne, producing artistic director of Vermont’s Northern Stage. The Circle’s mission is to facilitate a network of female artistic directors and empower them to address the barriers prohibiting women from advancing in theatre leadership. Through a formal mentorship program and networking events, the Circle will also help train the next generation of women artistic directors.
Read: HOW ONE OFF-BROADWAY THEATRE ENSURES THE FUTURE IS FEMALE
Dunne is also a recipient of a $250,000 grant. The other three leaders to receive support from the Circle are Susan V. Booth at The Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, Eileen Morris at The Ensemble Theatre in Houston, and Sarah Rasmussen at Jungle Theater in Minneapolis.
“In this time of turmoil and change, the BOLD Artistic Leadership grant feels like a beacon in the wilderness, I am honored to join these indomitable women in fostering the next generation of female artistic leadership in the theatre, and in shattering glass ceilings across the nation,” said McNulty.
WP will use part of the grant to support WP Lab alums in their new staff positions: Tamilla Woodard as associate artistic director, and Rachel Karpf as artistic producer.
“I have been extraordinarily lucky to have so many incredible female mentors throughout my career, and it is my greatest privilege to advise and collaborate with Tamilla and Rachel in the season ahead,” said McNulty.
The BOLD Circle is made possible through the support of the Pussycat Foundation.
WP Theater is the country’s oldest and largest theatre company dedicated to developing and producing the work of female-identified and trans artists. The organization is currently co-producing Kate Benson’s upside-down romantic comedy [Porto] Off-Broadway.
