Mission:
Circle X is a not for profit ensemble theater company dedicated to highly provocative and boldly theatrical productions of new and rarely-seen plays. We believe in imagination over budget, adrenaline over inertia and excellence over all. Through art and action we cultivate a better community.
About Us:
Circle X was founded in early 1996 by seven artists drawn together by a common dream of creating an artistic home. Today, with 50 members and a production history of 26 main stage productions (including 15 world premieres), we're still committed to the mission created by the founders. We've always maintained an open company policy and never charge dues. Admission to the company is gained through participation (artistic, technical or both). As members, we volunteer our time and talent because we believe Circle X's work is vital to Los Angeles audiences and to our own artistic growth.
Our artistic process is the challenge and the bond that drives our company. Our emphasis on innovation goes beyond our selection of thought provoking, highly theatrical plays. It extends into everything from design, performance and direction to administration and marketing, creating the unique aesthetic for which Circle X is known. We've been described as ferocious, idealistic, adventurous, whimsical, courageous, talented and selfless, "a reminder of how good theater can be" aspiring to "a level of both sturdy professionalism and imaginative stagecraft that seems almost dangerously, headily high." When we succeed, our audiences experience a rare fusion of inspired design, epic storytelling and high quality creative talent.
Because we want our art to be both accessible and accountable to our community, we maintain a tradition of charitable contribution and weekly pay what you can performances. Circle X fosters relationships with local colleges and school districts and welcomes student groups and young members. Of our seven summer interns through the Los Angeles County Arts Internship program, five have become full ensemble members.
We choose projects based on our mission statement and only produce when the material is there. Currently, we produce two main stage productions a year in addition to a free public reading series and several internal readings and workshops. Our goal is to produce a regular three show season in addition to free readings, classes, outreach activities and creative opportunities for our ensemble.
We rely on funding from individual donors as well as grants from the Department of Cultural Affairs, the Los Angeles County Arts Commission, the Flintridge Foundation and Capital Group. Please give: we need your support to achieve our goals and continue producing innovative live theater in Los Angeles.
In the years to come, Circle X looks forward to refining its high theatrical and community ideals as well as continuing its evolution as an organization that challenges and champions the community it serves.
