Black Lives Matter. The social justice reckoning that is occurring across the nation is also playing out in the theatre world, and as a white director, I recognize my complicity in the systemic racism and white supremacy of the American Theatre. I have made mistakes. I have caused harm. I recognize myself in the lists and open letters being published by brave BIPOC colleagues in Chicago and across the nation who are speaking out.

I have always believed that theatre should be a safe and brave space for everyone. As a director, coach, and artistic director, it is my job to set the tone in every rehearsal room, class, and meeting that I lead. To that end, I am committed to doing the work to research racism and history in America and American Theatre; to reflect continually on my actions, beliefs, and experiences; and to use the fruits of that research and reflection to revolutionize my actions to practice anti-racism as a way of life. I make this commitment in both my professional life as a director, coach, and artistic leader, and in my personal life as a friend, a citizen, and a mother.

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BETH WOLF is a Chicago theatre director, artistic director, and coach. In addition to being a freelance director, she is the founder and Producing Artistic Director of Midsommer Flight. She also co-founded and is the former Artistic Director of Promethean Theatre Ensemble.

Beth’s passion for theatre stems from her love of storytelling and artistic collaboration. Reviewers have praised her “sure direction of a flexible, mirthful ensemble,” and her ability to “coax mature, compelling performances from her [actors],” and have called her work “brilliant,” “tight and focused,” and “stunning.”

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Current and Upcoming Projects

Zoom Shakespeare Class | First Folio online text class, next session dates TBD