In the spring of 2019, a production of Shakespeare's Twelfth Night was launched with an all-female cast as a collaborative project between Topeka Civic Theatre, the Historic Jayhawk Theatre, and Ad Astra Theatre. Performed on the beautiful Jayhawk stage, this comedy marked the beginning of something special.
In the fall of 2020, several cast and crew members from Twelfth Night were brought together by the director, Shannon Reilly, who suggested the formation of a women-driven theatre company which would focus on producing Shakespeare's plays and other classic works around the Topeka community. We secured 501(c)3 status shortly after, and our company was born. Our first production together as a company was A Midsummer Night's Dream in May 2021 on the Redbud Stage in the NOTO arts district. This was followed by a "Shakespeare Shorts" event as part of NOTO Live, which welcomed even more new performers into our fold.
Our Mission: We are a women-driven company which aims to engage, empower, and celebrate our diverse community by reimagining classical theatrical works beyond the restriction of gender or cultural boundaries.
President: Angela Davis
Vice-President: Jesyca Hope
Secretary: Lauren McCauley-Jones
Treasurer: Mary Franz
Member-at-Large: Alexandra Reilly
Member-at-Large: Sheri Rippel
Member-at-Large: Elizabeth Sawaya
Member-at-Large: Ace Braden
We welcome anyone who would like to get involved! Whether you enjoy assisting with production and design elements, or want to audition for a stage performance, there's always a place for members and non-members alike.
If you wish to expand your involvement, you can become a member by volunteering and supporting the financial sustainability of our company. This opens eligibility to volunteer by serving on planning committees and running for board positions.
Stop by our Contact page to sign up for our email list or to send us a message with any questions you may have!