Without question, the talented members of Shakespeare in Detroit are achieving greatness with their continued efforts to unite Detroit’s communities through theater. Since 2013, the organization has performed live works from Shakespeare’s canon using historic and common venues around the city as backdrops.

Over the past five years summer shows by Detroit’s first Shakespeare company have been offered free of charge to attendees. To deliver its sixth summer show, “Much Ado About Nothing”, at no charge this August, the troupe is asking for your help.

Photo from 2017 live performance of Henry V. (Photo: Dawn Hamilton)

Shakespeare in Detroit is currently running a campaign on Indiegogo where supporters can help the organization continue its mission of providing professional and diverse theatre experiences. “I personally love Shakespeare and I know how it has changed my life”, says Sam White, founding Artistic and Executive Director. “It makes perfect sense to use it as a tool to bring people from all around the world to Detroit to see our shows, visit the restaurants, stay in the hotels, and shop at the retail spaces in the D.”

“Shakespeare, and theatre in general, is a supplement for education and a cultural commons which brings people from all walks of life together; those who may otherwise never engage or share space,” says White. “How needed is that in this time in history in our city, in our country and in the world?”

Romeo and Juliet 2014. (Photo: Shakespeare in Detroit)

Be sure to catch Detroit’s first Shakespeare company before the final curtain call of 2018. The last show of this season will be a ticketed production of “Twelfth Night” coming this fall. When asked about the impact of theater as an art form, White explained “Theatre gives the audience the opportunity to sit and share a common experience. Theatre is 3D; You see it, you feel it, and you can touch it. It’s special.”

Want to support Shakespeare in Detroit? Check out their fundraiser page on Indiegogo. There are plenty of perks to choose from including apparel, gift cards, and more!