Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble

Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble was founded in 1978 by young artists who came to study with legendary acting teacher Alvina Krause. The company has made a long-term commitment to bestow unique cultural opportunities on its non-urban region. The ensemble is highly regarded outside of Pennsylvania as well, having toured internationally and been profiled in national publications. The company is dedicated, over time, to its community, to theater as a patient but powerful instrument of understanding and social change and to one another as artists. As a resident ensemble united by responsibility, the ensemble shares in the stability and growth of its company, demonstrates the viability of collective artistic direction, and supports diverse and evolving individual aesthetics. Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble produces classical and contemporary plays, as well as original work from folklore, found text, history, interviews, and literature of many cultures. Their performances take place in the Alvina Krause Theatre, schools, and communities venues. Their home and region inspires them, and they in turn awaken the imagination, provoke questions, and embolden the spirit of the community.

As part of Shakespeare for a New Generation, Bloomsburg Theatre Ensemble will present Julius Caesar, adapted and directed by Ensemble Member James Goode, with student matinees at the Alvina Krause Theatre. Immediately following these matinees, the production will tour to schools, community, and public venues throughout Pennsylvania in order to bring the production to students in the five-county region of north-central Pennsylvania. The ensemble will also provide a comprehensive study guide and post-performance discussions with the cast. In addition, actors will provide half-day workshops for schools in the weeks prior to and following the performances. These workshops will teach students and teachers how to develop students' vocal and physical performance, text analysis, and critical understanding of Shakespeare's works.