McCarter Theatre
History
The McCarter Theatre, located in Princeton, New Jersey, is a renowned regional theater with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1930. The theater was originally constructed as a venue for the Princeton University Triangle Club, a student-run theater group. The building was designed by the architect Ralph Adams Cram, known for his work in the Collegiate Gothic style, which is evident in the theater's architecture. Over the years, McCarter Theatre has evolved from a university-affiliated venue to an independent, non-profit organization that produces a wide range of theatrical performances, including plays, musicals, and dance.
The theater's inaugural performance was a production of Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew," which set the tone for its commitment to classic and contemporary works. Throughout its history, McCarter Theatre has hosted numerous world premieres and has been a launching pad for many successful productions that have moved on to Broadway and beyond.
Architecture and Facilities
The McCarter Theatre complex consists of two main performance spaces: the Matthews Theatre and the Berlind Theatre. The Matthews Theatre, the original building, seats approximately 1,100 patrons and features a proscenium stage. Its design reflects the Gothic Revival style, with intricate stonework and stained glass windows that contribute to its historic charm.
The Berlind Theatre, added in 2003, is a more intimate space with a seating capacity of around 360. It offers a flexible stage configuration, allowing for a variety of production styles. The addition of the Berlind Theatre was part of a major renovation and expansion project that aimed to modernize the facilities while preserving the historical integrity of the original structure.
Artistic Programming
McCarter Theatre is known for its diverse programming, which includes a mix of classic plays, contemporary works, and new commissions. The theater has a strong commitment to nurturing new talent and has been instrumental in the development of new plays and musicals. It regularly collaborates with playwrights, directors, and actors to bring innovative productions to the stage.
One of the theater's notable initiatives is its annual playwriting residency program, which provides playwrights with the opportunity to develop new works in a supportive environment. This program has been a significant contributor to the theater's reputation as a center for new play development.
In addition to its theatrical productions, McCarter Theatre hosts a variety of other performances, including dance, music, and family programming. It is a key player in the regional arts scene and attracts audiences from across the Northeast.
Educational and Community Engagement
McCarter Theatre is deeply committed to educational and community engagement. It offers a range of educational programs for students of all ages, from elementary school to university level. These programs include workshops, masterclasses, and internships, designed to provide hands-on learning experiences in the performing arts.
The theater also engages with the local community through outreach programs that aim to make the arts accessible to all. These initiatives include discounted ticket programs, community partnerships, and special events that bring the arts to underserved populations.
Notable Productions and Collaborations
Over the years, McCarter Theatre has been the site of many notable productions and collaborations. It has worked with some of the most respected names in theater, including directors like Emily Mann, who served as the theater's artistic director for over 30 years. Under her leadership, McCarter Theatre produced numerous acclaimed productions, including the world premiere of Christopher Durang's "Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike," which went on to win the 2013 Tony Award for Best Play.
The theater has also collaborated with other prestigious institutions, such as the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Lincoln Center Theater, to produce groundbreaking works that have received critical acclaim.
Awards and Recognition
McCarter Theatre has received numerous awards and accolades for its contributions to the arts. It was awarded the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre in 1994, a testament to its excellence in producing high-quality theatrical works. The theater's commitment to artistic innovation and community engagement has earned it a reputation as one of the leading regional theaters in the United States.