Independent Shakespeare Co.
Independent Shakespeare Co. is a unique theater company, one that brings together a wide cross-section of our community to experience plays, both classical and new. We are leaders in creating a truly diverse ensemble of artists, and an equally diverse audience. We are passionate in our belief that shared theatrical experiences build a stronger, more joyful, more connected community. Los Angeles is our home. 2010 marked the start of a new chapter in our history: our Free Shakespeare in the Park annual festival moved to Griffith Park. It’s an ideal spot. It’s truly the park that’s for all Los Angeles, our stage is built in the gently sloping natural amphitheater of the Old Zoo, and the nights are peaceful. Since 2013 we have performed to over 40,000 people each and every summer. The Festival has grown to include more than Shakespeare performances. Audiences enjoy pre-show performances by a variety of local artists, we host the Salon Series (conversations about the intersection of Shakespeare and contemporary culture), and families can attend pre-show workshops about the plays. All of our summer events are entirely free. In 2011, we moved into an indoor, year-round venue in the Atwater Crossing Complex in Atwater Village. We now occupy a 65-seat performance venue, the Independent Studio. At the Studio, we present new plays that connect us to our history and experimental productions of classical plays. We’re expanding what we think about theater, and engaging our audience in the conversation about what theater can be, and its role in the community.
