November 5, 2021
Asolo Rep Announces New Muriel O'Neil American Heritage Series
Category: Arts, BELONGING AND CULTURE: Cultural Development & the Arts, Grants, Nonprofits, Legacy Giving,
Asolo Repertory Theatre announces a new series to commission three plays by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) playwrights and directors over the next three years. The Muriel O’Neil American Heritage Commission Series, made possible by a generous $75,000 grant from the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, is part of the Ground Floor program, a new work development initiative at Asolo Rep.
The three-year project will amplify the work of historically underrepresented voices of American theatre, giving the selected artists not only financial support, but an incubator to develop and experiment with their pieces in a supportive space, with an engaged audience.
“The arts are a window into many different experiences, and they provide opportunities to connect with diverse voices and viewpoints and, in the process, learn more about ourselves,” said Roxie Jerde, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. “By naming this new, important series that will unite artistic performances, discussions, and learning, the legacy of Muriel O’Neil will continue on through Asolo Repertory Theatre and the playwrights whose stories have yet to be told.”