What makes Samantha Gray with Theatre Bristol a good neighbor?

The rich cultural tapestry of the Tri-Cities area has been significantly enhanced for six decades by Theatre Bristol, a non-profit community Theatre celebrating its remarkable 60th anniversary this year. In a recent conversation on the Good Neighbor Podcast, Executive Director Samantha Gray shared insights into the Theatre's history, mission, and ongoing commitment to accessible arts programming that serves everyone in the community.

Theatre Bristol stands as a testament to the power of community-driven arts. Founded by Kathy DiCaterina, a Juilliard-educated Bristol native whose passion for Theatre began with staging productions for children in her home kindergarten, the organization has evolved from the Bristol Children's Theatre into the multi-venue performing arts institution it is today. What makes this transformation even more impressive is the volunteer-centric model that has sustained it through six decades. As Gray explained, "We're mostly supported by volunteers, so we depend on people saying hey, this is how I'd like to spend my time acting in a show, building a set, making costumes, or directing." This volunteer approach extends to all aspects of production, from the performers on stage to the behind-the-scenes technical support, creating an opportunity for community involvement at every level.

One of the most surprising elements revealed during the conversation was the misconception about Theatre Bristol's performers. Gray noted that audience members frequently assume the skilled actors in major productions like Les Misérables or The Music Man are professional performers brought in specifically for those shows. In reality, these talented individuals are community members who have chosen to build their lives locally while pursuing their passion for performance through community Theatre. This speaks to the extraordinary depth of talent within the Tri-Cities region and Theatre Bristol's ability to showcase and develop that talent. Their philosophy of inclusivity is wonderfully captured in Gray's statement: "If you have skills, bring them. If you don't, we'll teach you."

The organization's commitment to accessibility extends to their ticket pricing model as well. Unlike commercial Theatres, Theatre Bristol intentionally keeps their performances affordable, recognizing that "the price of a ticket doesn't actually cover the cost of a production." This approach aligns with their mission to bring quality theatrical experiences to everyone in the community, regardless of economic means. To bridge this financial gap, the Theatre relies on grants, donations, and sponsorships, highlighting the important role of community support in sustaining this cultural resource. This philosophy of inclusivity has now expanded to three performance venues: their 100-seat black box Artspace Stage, the historic Paramount Theatre where they stage larger productions, and their recently acquired 500+ seat Cameo Theatre, which represents an exciting new chapter in their growth.

Perhaps most inspiring was Theatre Bristol's resilience during the pandemic, a period Gray described as "very frightening" for performing arts organizations, which were "among the first to shut down and among the last to open back up." Despite these unprecedented challenges, Theatre Bristol persevered and emerged with renewed energy, currently producing a vibrant season including Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, To Kill a Mockingbird, The Odd Couple, and Irving Berlin's White Christmas. This resilience demonstrates not just the organization's operational strength but also the deep community commitment to ensuring that live Theatre remains an essential part of the Tri-Cities cultural experience.

As Theatre Bristol celebrates its 60th anniversary, Gray's invitation rings true for anyone interested in experiencing or supporting community Theatre: "There is a place for you here, whether it's seeing a show, helping to share about our shows, coming in and helping with sets or props or costumes, or acting on stage even for the very first time." This inclusive spirit has been the foundation of Theatre Bristol's six decades of success and will undoubtedly guide them into their next chapter of bringing the transformative power of Theatre to generations of Tri-Cities residents.

To learn more about Theatre Bristol go to:

https://theatrebristol.org/

Theatre Bristol

(423) 212-3625