The Breach is a veteran-run initiative that brings theatre artists, mental health providers, veterans, first responders or family members together to strengthen the emotional resources they need to overcome trauma and reintegration issues, and to share their experiences through the art and practice of theatre and storytelling.

Meetings take place at The Rep each Saturday, starting in September, under the coordination of Breach Founder & Project Director, Ben Grimes and Registered Drama Therapist, Tamra Patterson-Calamese. The cohort uses a theme from the US Army Values – loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage – as a stimulator for reflection.  These themes are coupled with theatre texts that evoke further examination and thought.  The weeks build to a special performance event on Veterans Day weekend – an authentic display of personal courage and overall leadership.

All active service members, veterans, first responders or their family members are encouraged to be a part of The Breach. No prior experience with theatre or performance is required…just an openness to it. Cohort members receive a stipend for their participation.

The 2024 Breach Cohort is full, but please email us at community@therep.org with any questions or to express interest in future activities.

The Cohort’s culminating performance event for the public will be held on Saturday, November 9th.  

The Breach is part of The Rep’s programming initiative through the Department of Community, Learning, and Public Programs. The overall goal of the department is in alignment with The Rep’s desire to capture the collective imagination and build community by embracing the art of theatre in all its forms.  We recognize the unique ability of theatrical activities to improve mental well-being and emotional development. We strive to celebrate and develop the artistry of community members regardless of their age or experience.  We provide a platform for the sharing of varied human experiences to drive community conversations.  And we seek out collaborations with, and make our resources accessible to, like-minded community organizations.

The 2024 Cohort of The BREACH is generously sponsored by Gen (Ret.) Wesley & Gert Clark, Jim Gifford, and the Windgate Foundation.

Below are photos of the 2023 Breach cohort. A conversation with General (Ret.) Wesley Clark, Dr. Rick Owen, the director of the Center of Mental Healthcare and Outcomes Research at the VA, and Ben Grimes, founder of Riverside Actors Theatre, was also part of the 2023 Breach event.

(Photos by Matthew Sewell Photography)