The Oregon Shakespeare Festival has suffered the same pandemic setbacks as many other big theatres in the country. Seasons have shrunk, as has the staff. Earlier this year, former Artistic Director and Interim Executive Director Nataki Garrett stepped away after a staff shakeup and an emergency $2.5 million funding campaign. Shortly thereafter, the company announced it would need in excess of $7 million in order to finish the current season.

OSF is unique in the nation, says American Theatre Editor-in-Chief Rob Weinert-Kendt. There are plenty of other big theatres in urban centers, but Ashland is not in an urban center. It’s the main cultural draw in Southern Oregon, and the scope and depth of its offerings appeal to a national audience. Despite its name, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival has been known for decades for its commitment to creating new plays and supporting groundbreaking work. Weinert-Kendt joins us to discuss some of the slings and arrows American theatre and OSF are facing.