Artisphere: What Could Be…

2AMt: The DC Theatre community took a hit recently when Artisphere announced that due to a policy change its resident theatre company WSC Avant Bard would be kicked out in the middle of its season. I feel deeply for the company; it is upsetting have your home taken from you and I wish them all the best in relocating to another space. This new policy change requires that “in residence” companies use the space for a shortened period of time – not the four to eight week run that WSC has been used to. Under the new policy, there will be more space available for other events and rentals. However, the specifics of WSC aside, I think in losing the long-term residence model Artisphere has the option of opening up a much deeper connection to local theatrical work. I fear however that they are unequipped to do so and more than that, that they do not even see the opportunity before them.