Repertory Company Theatre Inc — Attraction in Richardson

As a retired theatre teacher and a white individual with a mixed family who resides just a few blocks from your theatre, my engagement with your venue and its productions, especially the upcoming "Sister Act," is deeply personal. My experiences directing "Sister Act" and witnessing the impact of theatre on my family underscore the importance of diversity and representation on stage. This significance was brought home to me when my grandchild, attending one of your shows, innocently inquired, "Do they have any black people here at this theatre?" This observation highlights a personal concern and aligns with a broader perception of a lack of diversity at the theatre, a sentiment echoed by my children involved in local theatre.

This concern is exacerbated by the pattern of lead roles often allocated to the same select group of individuals. It raises the question of whether the talent search needs to be more thorough, particularly in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, known for its rich diversity. This region should provide a broad talent pool for roles in "Sister Act" that are traditionally African American, such as Curtis "Jackson," Eddie Souther, and TJ, and for other productions in your repertoire.

The casting, particularly for pivotal roles like Deloris Van Cartier in "Sister Act," will indicate the theatre's commitment to authentic representation. Failing to cast a black woman in this role would not only be a missed opportunity for genuine storytelling but also prompt me and others to question the theatre's dedication to diversity. Our performing arts community often discusses the need for change, but real progress depends on making conscious, intentional choices that challenge the status quo.

Additionally, with "South Pacific" also included in the upcoming season, there's a crucial opportunity for dialogue regarding its racial undertones and the challenge of presenting such works in today's societal context. While "South Pacific" offers valuable artistic perspectives, it simultaneously requires us to question which narratives we choose to perpetuate and how we might use them as educational tools rather than mere entertainment. This approach is essential for productions with dated elements that may no longer align with contemporary understandings of race and representation.

As a staunch supporter of the performing arts and your theatre, I want to see how these issues are addressed. The decisions will significantly impact my ongoing engagement and support (I donate occasionally). We stand at a crossroads, with the choice to either maintain existing practices or actively contribute to a more inclusive and representative performing arts culture. I hope for a future where our actions reflect a commitment to diversity and inclusion, enriching the arts for all who see them as reflecting their diverse experiences and...

I am so sad to have to write this review. We love RCT and were season tickets holders for years before moving out of the metroplex. We were looking forward to seeing NEWSIES this month but had a conflict with the date for tickets I purchased in April online. They will not change our date because we purchased tickets online. DO NOT purchase tickets online, ONLY purchase through the box office. I don't understand the policy and am disappointed that there isn't something they can do. Go see the show - it is an amazing group of local talent! Just be aware of their ticket...

The performances may be good, but don't expect them to honor your options if you missed performances due to covid-19. We were so nicely informed that we lost our entire ticket sales due to the fact it was for the 2021 performance only upon calling them after getting the information for their newest performances, and should have been told that originally which we weren't. How is this supposed to be fair and honest treatment of customers although they put on a good...