Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park: Company Profile

Background

Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park (OSP) is a non-profit organization dedicated to producing bold, re-imagined, and accessible interpretations of Shakespeare's works and other classical literature. Founded in 1985 by Kathryn McGill and Jack J. O'Meara, OSP has become a cornerstone of Oklahoma City's cultural landscape. The organization operates under a collective bargaining agreement with Actors’ Equity Association as a Small Professional Theatre, Category I, and is a proud member of the Shakespeare Theatre Association.

Key Strategic Focus

OSP's strategic focus centers on delivering high-quality theatrical productions that engage a diverse audience. The company specializes in classical theatre, particularly the works of Shakespeare, and is committed to promoting artistic excellence and contributing to the cultural growth of the community. Key objectives include cultivating a wide audience, supporting emerging actors, and attracting top artistic staff. The organization utilizes a range of performance venues, including the 200-seat Shakespeare Gardens outdoor amphitheater and the 55-seat Black Box indoor theatre, to reach various segments of the community.

Financials and Funding

As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, OSP relies on a combination of ticket sales, grants, and donations to fund its operations. In 2023, the organization reported total revenues of $335,822 and total expenses of $474,868, with total assets amounting to $633,216. Major funding sources include the Oklahoma Arts Council, the National Endowment for the Arts, Allied Arts, The Inasmuch Foundation, the Kirkpatrick Family Fund, American Fidelity, and the Oklahoma City Community Foundation.

Pipeline Development

OSP's programming includes a mix of classic Shakespearean plays and other classical works. In 2024, the company celebrated its 40th anniversary season with productions such as "Twelfth Night," "A Midsummer Night’s Dream," "Macbeth," "Hamlet," and "Jane Austen’s Christmas Cracker." The organization also introduced the Emerging Artists Collective, providing opportunities for young professionals to lead productions like "Macbeth" in the Black Box Theatre.

Technological Platform and Innovation

OSP employs a range of technological platforms to enhance its productions and outreach programs. The company utilizes digital marketing strategies, including social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, to engage with audiences and promote events. Additionally, OSP offers online ticketing and streaming options for certain performances, expanding accessibility to a broader audience.

Leadership Team

The leadership team at OSP includes:

Kathryn McGill: Co-founder and Artistic Director, McGill has been instrumental in shaping the company's artistic vision and programming since its inception.

Tyler Woods: Artistic & Executive Director, Woods joined OSP as the second Artistic Director in the company's history, overseeing artistic and executive operations.

Jon Haque: Managing Director, responsible for the company's day-to-day operations and strategic planning.

Michelle Swink: PR/Marketing Associate, handling public relations and marketing efforts to promote OSP's productions and events.

Leadership Changes

In 2024, OSP celebrated its 40th anniversary season, marking the final directorial production of co-founder Kathryn McGill, who retired after leading the company for four decades. Tyler Woods succeeded her as the Artistic & Executive Director, becoming only the second Artistic Director in the company's history.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The regional theatre market in Oklahoma is characterized by a diverse array of community and professional theatre companies. Key competitors include:

Gaslight Theatre: Located in Enid, Gaslight Theatre is one of Oklahoma's oldest and most active community theatres, offering a wide spectrum of theatrical entertainment.

Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma: Based in Oklahoma City, Lyric Theatre is a prominent professional theatre company known for its diverse productions and community engagement.

Poteet Theatre: Situated in Norman, Poteet Theatre provides a range of performances, including musicals and plays, contributing to the state's vibrant arts scene.

Competitor Analysis

These competitors offer a variety of theatrical productions, from classical plays to contemporary works, catering to different audience preferences. While OSP specializes in Shakespearean and classical theatre, competitors like Gaslight Theatre and Lyric Theatre provide a broader range of performances, including musicals and modern plays. This diversity in programming allows each organization to carve out its niche within the Oklahoma theatre landscape.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

OSP collaborates with various organizations to enhance its programming and outreach efforts. Notably, the company is a member of the Shakespeare Theatre Association, which provides a forum for theatres involved with Shakespearean productions to discuss issues, share resources, and advocate for the arts.

Operational Insights

OSP's strategic considerations include maintaining financial health and stability, presenting work of the highest professional quality, and investing in the growth of staff, artists, and board members. The organization emphasizes originality, depth of emotion, theatrical innovation, and creative risk in its productions. Additionally, OSP values diversity and inclusion, fostering a safe and supportive workplace where collaboration and trust are paramount.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, OSP aims to expand its educational outreach programs, including student matinees, touring performances, artist-in-residence training, and youth training camps. The organization also plans to continue its tradition of producing bold and accessible interpretations of classical works, while exploring new technologies and platforms to engage with audiences. By leveraging its strengths in classical theatre and community engagement, OSP is well-positioned to achieve its objectives in the coming years.