Photo Credit: The cast of The Reservoir at Denver Center for the Performing Arts, a 2024 Social Impact Theatre Grant Recipient. Photo by Jamie Kraus Photography.
Seattle – Today The Sheri and Les Biller Family Foundation announced fourteen recipients of its annual Social Impact Theatre Grant Program. Since 2011, the program has provided production support for theatres in Western states igniting positive changes in their communities through the programming they bring to life on stage and engaging their audiences around the critical issues at the forefront of the national discourse.
“Amid the many layered challenges facing the American theatre sector, we celebrate the commitment of these fourteen theatres to bring stories to the stage that matter and to unite audiences around society’s most pressing challenges,” said Sheri Biller, Co-Founder and President of The Sheri and Les Biller Family Foundation. “This year, more than ever, we honor the innovation, intention, and courage with which these theatres approach their work.”
“These organizations represent a meaningful cross-section of American theatre, united in their commitment to uplifting voices and giving visibility to important stories,” said Audrey Haberman, Foundation CEO. “We are grateful for the chance to learn about the array of issues they are addressing and how they serve their communities.”
The productions receiving awards this year utilize the power of live theatre to honor humanity, build empathy, and move us closer to a more inclusive and connected society. These productions were also selected for their commitment to bringing different viewpoints together on challenging subjects, reaching new audiences, and partnering with organizations, community members, and subject matter experts to help amplify their production’s impact.
This year’s grantees include:
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- Arvada Center for Arts and Humanities – Come from Away
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- Berkeley Repertory Theatre – Mother of Exiles
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- Geffen Playhouse – Am I Roxie?
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- Intiman Theatre – SHe Said
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- Pasadena Playhouse – Mexodus
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- Portland Playhouse – Angry, Raucous, and Shamelessly Gorgeous
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- Shotgun Players – The Motion
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- Seattle Children’s Theatre – Young Dragon: A Bruce Lee Story
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- South Coast Repertory – The Heart Sellers
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- Su Teatro – Just Like Us
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- The Phoenix Theatre Company – Dear Evan Hansen
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- Z Space Studio – Becoming A Man
The Social Impact Theatre Grant Program supports theatres throughout Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington State, with 501(c)(3) status, at least two years of operating history, and annual revenue of at least $1,000,000.
The next cycle will open in May of 2026.