Our Mission & History
THE ARKANSAS REPERTORY THEATRE EXISTS TO PRODUCE DIVERSE THEATRICAL WORKS OF THE HIGHEST ARTISTIC STANDARDS.
Our core programming includes a summer season of freshly created productions, performed at our downtown Little Rock facilities – including a 340-seat auditorium and 100-seat black box space – or around our broader community. We tell stories that provide entertainment and escape, that help us process the world around us, and that foster a sense of mutual understanding. Unlike most of the ever-present electronic media, the live experiences of The Rep are distinctly theatrical – immersive and shared by the community in a public space outside of individual homes.
The Rep aspires to capture the collective imagination and build community by embracing the art of theatre in all its forms. We look to collaborate with, and make our resources accessible to, like-minded community organizations. We seek to develop and celebrate the community of artists with roots in Central Arkansas. Through joy-filled theatrical activities, we hope to engage our community in conversations that ultimately unite us. And we strive to engage our young community members in the appreciation and creation of theatre, often providing them with their first exposure to the artform.
WHERE WE BEGAN
Since our founding in 1976, we have maintained the highest artistic standards. Our vibrant history includes award-winning artists — both local and from across the country — with a focus on celebrating artists and works with connections to our community.
MEMBERS OF THE REP’S ORIGINAL ACTING COMPANY & STAFF
(pictured from left to right):
Craig Fuller, Phyllis Blumenfeld, Ron Aulgur, Cliff Baker (Founder/Producing Artistic Director), Lynn Frazier (Office Manager/Controller) Janine LeMay, Jeanne Hendrickson, David Eubanks (volunteer), Bob Boles, Scott Edmonds, Jane Mooney (General Manager), Guy Couch, Ken Klingenmeier
Founded by Cliff Fannin Baker, the Arkansas Repertory Theatre opened in the former Hunter Memorial Methodist Church at East 11th and McMath Streets. Its first production, The Threepenny Opera, was performed in November 1976. The Rep mounted 243 productions under Cliff’s creative leadership.
(pictured): Cliff Baker, August: Osage County 2015