The Public Theater in NYC was founded as The Shakespeare Workshop in 1954 by Joseph Papp, with intention of showcasing the works of up-and-coming playwrights and performers. The theater is located at 425 Lafayette Street in Lower Manhattan.The mission of the Public Theater is: As the nation's foremost theatrical producer of Shakespeare and new work, The Public Theater is dedicated to achieving artistic excellence while developing an American theater that is accessible and relevant to all people through productions of challenging new plays, musicals and innovative stagings of the classics. (publictheater.org)
Some brief history: Founded by Joseph Papp as the Shakespeare Workshop and now one of the nation’s preeminent cultural institutions, The Public is an American theater in which all the country’s voices, rhythms, and cultures converge. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Oskar Eustis and Executive Director Andrew D. Hamingson, The Public is dedicated to embracing the complexities of contemporary society and nurturing both artists and audiences, as it continues Joseph Papp's legacy of creating a place of inclusion and a forum for ideas.
The Public Theater produces new plays, musicals, productions of Shakespeare, and other classics in its headquarters on Lafayette Street (the former Astor library, which opened as The Public Theater in 1967 with the world premiere of the musical Hair) and at the Delacorte Theater, its permanent summertime home of free Shakespeare in the Park each summer. The Public's newest performance space, Joe's Pub, has become an important venue for new work and intimate performances by musicians, spoken-word artists, and solo performers.
In addition to its theatrical programming, The Public trains the next generation of classical performers through the Shakespeare Lab, an annual summer acting intensive. It also presents New Work Now!, a play reading series that has become a nationally recognized showcase for emerging writers and established artists.
The Public Theater offers internships to those wanting to pursue a career in theater. The Public Theater’s internship program offers a unique opportunity for individuals to gain practical experience in one of the country’s premiere not-for-profit theaters. Founded by Joseph Papp to bring Shakespeare to the people of New York, The Public has expanded to include contemporary pieces, specially commissioned new works, staged readings and workshops. Internships are offered in a variety of departments, from the creative to the administrative; and interns are encouraged to explore beyond their department to learn more about how the theater functions as a whole. The internship program aims to provide individuals with valuable mentorship and expert training, bridging the gap between academic education and practice. Interns play an integral part in the inner workings of the Public. Supporting the Public in its daily activities, interns will gain insight, knowledge and hands-on experience in all aspects of the theater. We offer tickets to all Public Theater main stage productions, and weekly seminars with Public Theater staff. A weekly stipend is available for all internships unless otherwise specified. Ideal intern candidates should be enthusiastic, dedicated workers with an interest in pursuing a career in theater. We are looking for people who are detail-oriented, independent and able to multi-task. (publictheater.org)
The Public Theater has won 42 Tony Awards, 149 Obies, 40 Drama Desk Awards, 24 Lucille Lortel Awards and 4 Pulitzer Prizes. I think that’s pretty great for only being a 55 year old theater.
I think this theater appeals to me because they really are theater-oriented. Some places you go they are just worried about the money and what not. From what I researched on The Public Theater, they are more for the theater part, which is most important. Just like they said about their internships, they only want those that are looking to pursue a career in theater, not someone who just wants a job.
They also have discounted tickets for big groups and for students, which appeals to me. I’m a student and I know how expensive things can get. So, if I can catch a break here and there, that’s wonderful. You can also purchase a membership and get discounted tickets for plays.
So, the Public Theater is an amazing place for people to come and enjoy a show.
