Glass Canon Theatre Company Launches in DC
Glass Canon Theatre Company, a new non-profit, officially launches this month with a mission to make the classics radical again. Founded by five emerging DC artists, the company seeks to build connection through art. Glass Canon will make its public debut with a launch event, The Glass Canon Gala, on November 10 at Culture House.
"There has never been a more urgent time to start a theatre company," said Gil Mitchell, Artistic Director. "As traditional institutions falter under political and financial pressure, artists must reclaim the stage as a space for truth-telling, a place where we confront injustice, demagoguery, and hate through imagination and craft." Committed to reimagining the classics for a turbulent age, Glass Canon believes that art is strongest when rooted in community and will collaborate with local artists to bring its productions to life.
The founding team includes Mitchell; Laura Artesi, Associate Artistic Director; Emily Erickson, Executive Director; Gabriel Alejandro, Director of Education; and Savina Barini, Director of Communications. "We see theatre as a civic act," said Erickson. "Our goal is to make space for both outrage and imagination. We want to remind audiences that empathy itself is a form of resistance."
Glass Canon officially begins operations this month with The Glass Canon Gala, an inaugural fundraiser and season announcement to be held on November 10 at Culture House. The evening will feature performances by emerging artists and beloved local legends, including excerpts from classics, live music, and improv. Guests will enjoy a reception and raffle supporting the company's first season. Tickets begin at $25 and are available at www.glasscanon.org.
"The gala isn't just a fundraiser. It's a celebration of what connects us," Alejandro added. "At a time when so many spaces feel divided, theatre remains one of the few places where communities can innovate together." Information about upcoming productions, casting opportunities, and ticket sales will be announced through the company's website and social media channels.
"Our mission isn't only to produce plays," said Artesi. "It's to build a home for artists and audiences who believe theatre can still change the world."
Glass Canon Theatre Company is a 501(c)3 organization committed to producing exceptional theatre for the D.C. community that is inclusive, engaging, and relevant with a focus on classical work. Our company strives to support artists, audiences, and students alike through our season programming, new play development, and educational offerings. Glass Canon Theatre Company operates under its five core values of Artistry, Collaboration, Inclusion, Joy and Sustainability.