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Diversity, Equity
& Inclusion

Diversity,
Equity &
Inclusion

OUR COMMITMENT

In recognition of the essential examination of systemic racism and injustices, we at Geffen Playhouse commit to continued analysis and expansion of our own institutional practices to be part of the solution. Our vision for the Geffen is that people of all races, faiths, sexual orientations, abilities, genders and backgrounds find it an easily accessible and highly relevant source of art that reflects the dynamic human experience and galvanizes a more equitable and vibrant community. In adopting this statement, we are amplifying our strategic and ongoing commitment to improving and increasing the cultural diversity, equity and inclusion of our audiences, staff, artists, board, and programming. Read Full Policy

Our Action

Since its formation in October 2020, the Geffen Playhouse Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee – comprised of Geffen artists, staff and Board members – has regularly met on a bi-monthly basis to provide input and insight for all facets of the theater, ranging from the art produced on our stages to individual employee programs.

The Committee has been responsible for the creation of our DEI statement, developing and implementing a formal, accountable company-wide Diversity and Equity Policy, as well as bringing new voices and perspectives to the Geffen family.

Brian Allman (Staff), Berenice Campos (Staff), Gil Cates, Jr. (Staff), Ellyce Cooper (Advisory Board), Merle Dandridge (Artist/Board), Clay Dzygun (Staff), Karen Gutierrez (Staff), Elizabeth Kegley (Staff), Laura Kennedy (Advisory Board), Erick R. López (Staff), Vella Lovell (Artist), Tiffany Mayberry Co-Chair (Board), Alex Norkus (Staff), Olivia O'Connor (Staff), Jeni Pearsons Co-Chair (Staff), Holly Rice (Board), Pamela Robinson (Board Chair Emeritus), John Sonego (Advisory Board), Cela Sutton (Advisory Board), Miranda Tollman (Advisory Board), Eugene Young (Artist)

Our Progress

Being committed is taking action. Being committed is a willingness to learn, grow and evolve as an arts organization, embracing myriad points of view that reflect the inherent diversity in every community.

Our progress includes, but is not limited to:

  • An ongoing relationship Diane Burbie and The Aspire Group, a leading consulting firm based in Los Angeles, who specialize in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion training and organizational effectiveness. This partnership includes staff training sessions and workshops.
  • A successfully implemented written code of conduct that all staff and artists are required to sign and abide by. This code of conduct requires respect in all spaces, and outlines a clear reporting, investigation, and resolution process. We acknowledge that no two problems are the same, but all need to be addressed in a prompt, thoughtful and thorough manner to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone that engages with the Geffen.
  • Supporting plays by BIPOC writers with an artistic team that is reflective of the individual work. As an example, employing BIPOC directors, dramaturgs, designers and intimacy directors whenever possible.
  • Cultivation, nomination, and appointments of BIPOC and AAPI individuals to Board of Directors with total representation increasing from 10% to 25% in 3 years.
  • Creation of "Black Partners Appreciation Nights" which engaged 16 BIPOC groups in a unique marketing/profit-sharing relationship that raised $44,205 for their respective non-profit organizations and brought more than 2,000 new visitors to the Geffen Playhouse during the 2022/23 season. These and other partner appreciation nights will continue to be developed and implemented in all future seasons.

This list will be updated with new developments/actions steps as they happen.

Our work is ongoing. Our priority is to create, nurture and support a safe and inclusive space for all artists, employees and patrons. This work includes internal reflection and critical analysis of our own environment and practices to evolve and move forward as an arts organization for all communities. As part of our ongoing reevaluation and reexamination of the organization, we continue to conduct regular assessments with staff, our Human Resources Director, our DEI Committee and The Aspire Group to develop and implement meaningful Action Steps to support our overall commitment to inclusivity and safety in the workplace.

Black
Partners
Appreciation
Nights

Black
Partners
Appreciation
Nights

In the spirit of Broadway's Black Out Nights, we welcome Black-identifying audiences and their allies to meet the artists and experience powerful theater alongside passionate community partners in a celebratory environment.

Learn More

Black
Partners
Appreciation
Nights

Black
Partners
Appreciation
Nights

In the spirit of Broadway's Black Out Nights, we welcome Black-identifying audiences and their allies to meet the artists and experience powerful theater alongside passionate community partners in a celebratory environment.

Learn More

Art Lives
Here

Art Lives Here

Now in its third year, the Art Lives Here project has commissioned 12 original artworks to welcome patrons into our theater and experience theatergoing through the eyes of eclectic artists in Los Angeles. Terrell Tilford, actor/artist/activist and founder of Band of Vices, has been appointed Creative Director of Art Lives Here for the 2023/24 season, which saw an 800% increase in artist submissions.

Learn More

Art Lives
Here

Art Lives Here

Now in its third year, the Art Lives Here project has commissioned 12 original artworks to welcome patrons into our theater and experience theatergoing through the eyes of eclectic artists in Los Angeles. Terrell Tilford, actor/artist/activist and founder of Band of Vices, has been appointed Creative Director of Art Lives Here for the 2023/24 season, which saw an 800% increase in artist submissions.

Learn More

Cultivating Community

As a non-profit organization, Geffen Playhouse has a deep commitment to sharing outstanding theater with everyone. Our entire city benefits from thought-provoking and inspiring performances, regardless of race, faith, sexual orientation, ability, gender, background, or the ability to purchase tickets. Geffen Playhouse’s education and community programs provide long-term, in-depth access to current and next generation theatergoers and instill a love for theater that will last a lifetime. Learning experiences and theater-making opportunities are designed to deepen program participants’ meaningful connections to the plays they attend, their sense of agency as thinkers and communicators, and their sense of community — with each other, the Geffen, and Los Angeles County.

Education & Community Programs

Artist Voices

Geffen Playhouse is proud to support artists and present works reflecting our shared experiences. By amplifying traditionally underrepresented voices in theater, we can together create art that is more vibrant, more meaningful, and more inclusive of our communities.

Past Programs

As a way to engage staff, board, artists and community members, two programs were developed to continue dialogue and thought-provoking conversation.

COMMUNITY & CONVERSATIONS

In-depth conversations centered around diversity, equity, and inclusion in all facets of theater-making. Geffen Playhouse has hosted four events since January 2021. Past guest speakers include Snehal Desai (Executive Director of East/West Players), Kristin Sakoda (Executive Director of Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture), and Clint Ramos (Tony Award-winning designer).

BOOKED

A reading initiative and speaker series for Geffen Playhouse staff, board, community partners and artists. Past guest speakers include Kamilah Forbes (award winning director & producer), the late Greg Tate (writer, musician, and producer), and Marc Bamuthi Joseph (poet, dancer, playwright & TED Fellow).

Past Guest Speakers

Want to Learn More?

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