At Rodman for Kids, we believe every child deserves access to the transformative power of the performing arts—regardless of their income level or learning style. Through our Theatre for Kids program, we work to remove the barriers that too often stand between young people and meaningful arts experiences.
That’s why we’re so proud to launch a new partnership this year with Commonwealth Shakespeare Company (CSC)—an organization that not only shares our commitment to access but lives it in everything they do. From intentional content design to built-in accessibility services, CSC exemplifies what it means to make the arts inclusive, educational, and unforgettable.
Rodman for Kids’ contribution to CSC’s SAVOR (Subsidized Art is a Value & Our Right) will provide more than 1,500 kids access to student matinee performances of Macbeth this season. For many of these young people, it will be their first time experiencing Shakespeare live—and possibly their first live theatre performance at all. This investment reflects our belief in meeting kids where they are and opening doors to experiences that can spark curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of the arts.
“One of the biggest barriers to bringing live theatre to young audiences is funding, and Rodman for Kids has become a powerful new partner for us in breaking down those barriers,” said Bryn Boice, Associate Artistic Director of Commonwealth Shakespeare Company, and the Director of their Stage2 production of Macbeth. “Together, we’re committed to removing the financial and accessibility hurdles that often stand between kids and the arts—Rodman for Kids through their Theatre for Kids program and CSC through our Stage2 program and Free Shakespeare on the Common. This support enables us to create memorable theatrical experiences geared toward middle and high schoolers that help them connect with Shakespeare in meaningful, fun, and inclusive ways.”
What makes CSC such a standout partner isn’t just what’s on stage—it’s everything that surrounds the performance. Their team provides educators with pre-show newsletters filled with activities and background information, offers accessibility supports during performances, and brings a thoughtful, youth-centered approach to every conversation.
“Steve, Bryn, and the whole team at Commonwealth Shakespeare Company quickly illustrated why they are such a fabulous group to partner with for our Theatre for Kids program,” said Bill Stiles, Theatre for Kids Program Manager at Rodman for Kids. “They keep accessibility and youth needs at the forefront of conversations, have a clear vision for how to make the content accessible and engaging, and highlight how providing activities prior to a performance can deepen the engagement and enrichment of the youth served.”
As we celebrate bringing 100,000 kids to the theatre through our program, partnerships like this one with Commonwealth Shakespeare Company remind us that the impact of the arts goes far beyond a single performance. It’s about creating space—for imagination, for connection, and for every young person to feel they belong.
PC: Benjamin Rose Photography (@benjaminrosephotography)