Business Details
26 Years
experience
Professional Shakespeare Theater & Educational Programs in NYC
Founded in 2000, the Actors Shakespeare Company-West Side Theatre (ASC) is a professional, non-profit ensemble theater dedicated to serving the Greater New York City area. Our mission centers on Shakespeare as the foundation of our work, engaging communities through clear, vibrant, and affordable productions that entertain, inspire, and empower diverse audiences. We prioritize accessibility, offering performances and educational programs designed to reach students, artists, and theater enthusiasts of all ages. Our productions emphasize Shakespeares timeless language while incorporating modern interpretations to resonate with contemporary audiences. ASC also provides immersive educational workshops that encourage active participation, helping students explore Shakespeares texts through performance and analysis.Located at The Episcopal Actors Guilds historic venue in New York City, we strive to make classic theater an accessible and transformative experience. With a team of Equity-certified actors and educators, we combine artistic excellence with a commitment to community enrichment. Our group discounts, special accommodations, and audience engagement initiatives reflect our dedication to inclusivity. Through initiatives like our play reading series and outreach programs, we aim to foster a deeper appreciation for Shakespeares works. Over two decades of operation, we have established ourselves as a trusted cultural institution that bridges tradition and innovation in theater arts.
Services
Theatrical Productions
Educational Workshops
Group Discounts
Audition Services
Play Readings
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We offer affordable Shakespeare productions since 2000
- Our team includes Equity-certified actors and SAFD combat specialists
- We provide curriculum-aligned educational workshops for schools
- ADA-compliant accessibility features for all performances
- Group discounts with tickets starting at $5 for students
Services
Theatrical Productions
ASC presents professional Shakespearean productions emphasizing textual clarity and modern relevance. Performances feature Equity-certified actors and incorporate dynamic staging techniques. Our work caters to both seasoned theatergoers and newcomers seeking accessible classical theater experiences.
Educational Workshops
Interactive workshops help students analyze Shakespeare through performance. Curriculum-aligned sessions focus on language analysis, character development, and thematic exploration. Programs include weekday performances with post-show discussions and customized in-school residencies.
Group Discounts
Organized groups of six or more receive 50% off tickets. Discount applies to students, seniors, and adults. Special packages include pre-show introductions and post-performance artist interactions for enhanced group experiences.
Play Readings
Annual reading series showcases Shakespeare-inspired works and adaptations. Submissions must be two-hour max, language-driven plays with comedy genre preference. Selected readings feature professional actors and directors.
Audition Services
Equity-professional auditions seek actors for mainstage productions. The process involves submitting CVs and headshots. Selected candidates participate in callbacks focusing on Shakespearean text interpretation and performance skills.
People
Denise Allesandra Hurd
Fight Master
Resident artist and SAFD-certified fight master since 2005. Specializes in stage combat and Shakespearean text interpretation. Member of Actors Equity Association.
Timur Kocak
Education Director
Founding member and co-manager since 2000. Oversees educational programming including school workshops and weekend theater classes. Experienced set designer and actor.
James Rana
Co-Manager
Resident artist since 2008 with SAG/AFTRA and Equity memberships. Manages play submission process for the annual reading series. Experienced actor and director.
Cindy Boyle
Co-Manager
Founding member and co-manager since 2000. Equity-certified actor with extensive experience in Shakespearean productions and organizational leadership.
Peter Galman
Resident Actor
Resident artist since 2000 with dual Equity and SAG/AFTRA memberships. Experienced in classical theater and film. Maintains active presence in both performance and educational outreach.
Questions
What types of productions does ASC specialize in?
ASC focuses on Shakespearean works and adaptations, emphasizing language-driven performances and modern interpretations.
Are there educational programs for schools?
Yes, we offer weekday student performances with talkbacks and in-school workshops aligned with NJ curriculum standards.
Does ASC offer group discounts?
Groups of 6+ receive 50% off tickets: $10/adult, $7.50/senior, $5/student.
What accessibility options are available?
We provide ADA seating, assisted listening devices, large-print programs, and accommodate special requests with advance notice.
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