The Unicorn Theatre: A Brief History 1974-2020

The Unicorn Theatre was originally founded under the name Theatre Workshop in 1974. It was a theatre company formed by three UMKC graduates, Jim Cairns, Rohn Dennis, and Liz Gordon who wanted to create an Off-Off-Broadway theatre in Kansas City. Their work focused on experimentation and using theatre as a political statement for social change. For years, the theatre operated as a community of people who wore many hats and performed many functions. In some ways, this still remains true. However, the theatre made a significant shift in its goals and future when they joined Actors’ Equity Association in 1984 shortly after Cynthia Levin was named Producing Artistic Director. The company has operated out of four different locations over the past 45+ years, but it has been in its current location at 3828 Main Street, Kansas City, MO since 1986. Many expansions and financial campaigns have contributed to the success of the theatre, which now houses two stages, The Levin Stage and The Jerome Stage. The Unicorn Theatre now operates under the vision of producing “Bold New Plays” and thrives on a mission that revolves around inclusion and diversity.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.A. (Master of Arts)

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Theatre (UMKC)

Grantor

University of Missouri--Kansas City

Year dc:date.issued

2020

Author dc:creator

• Haynes-Hohne, Sarah Jean

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Londré, Felicia Hardison, 1941-

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10355/74354

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:mospace.umsystem.edu:10355/74354