Firehouse Theatre Launches Forum and Hires Community Engagement Manager

As it enters its 25th season, Firehouse Theatre has initiated a community engagement program called Firehouse Forum. Using seminars, backstage tours, podcasts, parties, and other onsite opportunities Firehouse Forum will involve Richmonders in an ongoing exploration of the performing arts scene and how Firehouse Theatre continues to push at the margins of what theatre is and can be.

"We're exploring new models for engaging with the community that emphasize the interdisciplinarity of theatre, as well as working to raise the level of interest in locally-produced theatre and building relationships with new audiences," said Joel Bassin, Producing Artistic Director at Firehouse. "Firehouse Forum builds on the popularity and value of continuing education and life-long learning programs, and we believe it will increase understanding and expand involvement in the Richmond theatre scene."

Firehouse Forum will be led by David Timberline, recently hired as Community Engagement Manager at Firehouse, who brings decades of experience as a journalist and communications professional to the position. "In addition to his prior experience, Dave recently started a venture called 'Behind-the-Scenes RVA' that is already developing new ways for arts patrons to interact with local theater productions," said Bassin. "His work there dovetails nicely with what we hope to accomplish with Firehouse Forum."

"People are looking for more in-depth, interactive experiences in general and live theater has a great opportunity to capitalize on that interest," said Timberline. "Starting with the foundation of dynamic, engaging theater, we will increase opportunities for education, understanding, and excitement about locally-produced performing arts."

Offerings under the Firehouse Forum banner will start immediately with related online content, including blog posts and podcasts. Onsite programming will start with seminars scheduled for January 20th and 27th associated with the upcoming Firehouse production of TO DAMASCUS, a world premiere opera composed by Richmonder Walter Braxton.

Programming will be free to Firehouse members -- patrons who have purchased access to all Firehouse events for one annual fee. Reasonable pricing and packages for non-members will be finalized in December.

"The program will grow and change depending on community interest," said Timberline. "Given the popularity of traveling theater productions, the capacity for greater involvement in locally-produced theater is great. I'm looking forward to finding new ways to lure Richmonders into our theater."

More details can be found at firehousetheatre.org or by calling (804) 355-2001.

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