THE SHELDON EPPS THEATRICAL DIVERSITY PROJECT

THE SHELDON EPPS THEATRICAL DIVERSITY PROJECT was created in 2005 to support the Playhouse Artistic Director’s vision to build a legacy of artistic and theatrical diversity at Pasadena Playhouse. This initiative ensures the continuation of eclectic and dynamic productions that might not otherwise be possible within the given resources of the theatre.

Sheldon Epps’ vision for the theatre has always been to reach beyond ethnic diversity and seek out, encourage and engage writers, actors, directors and designers of unique cultural, racial, social and ethnic backgrounds.

Sheldon Epps, Sir Ben Kingsley, Canard Barnes of Merrill Lynch, and Charles Randolph-Wright

Over the past two years, in honor of this great vision, the Diversity Project has helped support new play development, fund productions by minority and women playwrights and allowed access to our theatre for underprivileged youth. In 2006, founding Diversity Project members celebrated at the Inaugural Event in conjunction with the production of August Wilson’s Fences, starring Angela Bassett and Laurence Fishburne.

This year’s Diversity Project Celebration took place on Tuesday, March 13, 2007. Premiere patrons enjoyed a fabulous dinner at Twin Palms Pasadena, while a lively pre-show reception took place on the Playhouse patio. Celebrity hosts Loretta Devine and Jenifer Lewis joined Playhouse Artistic Director, Sheldon Epps, onstage to honor playwright Charles Randolph-Wright. This recognition took place just before the curtain went up on the West Coast premiere production of Wright’s Cuttin’ Up. The evening was an unbelievable success, and all involved were thrilled by the greater awareness brought to the important initiatives of the Sheldon Epps Theatrical Diversity Project.

Additional photos from the event will be available soon.

Match your passion and enthusiasm for great theatre with your financial support! Become a member of the Diversity Project. Contact Sarah Lyding, Director of Development at (626) 792-8672.