Dear Wayward Family,

 

As you are well aware, 2020 is a year of unprecedented challenge.  Covid-19 has had a detrimental effect on the performing arts.  Theaters are dark, and countless artists have found themselves unemployed. Both actors and audiences are understandably cautious about returning to theater, and any type of normalcy is unlikely until a vaccine is developed.  Additionally, the many issues encompassed by the Black Lives Matter movement has positively challenged the theater community to reexamine its purpose,  policies, and procedures.  In this difficult period, I want to keep you abreast of our situation and hopes.

 

Most importantly, The Wayward Artist will continue!  Unfortunately, our third season of Identity is now cancelled.  Grand Central Art Center, home to our lovely 73-seat theater, will remain closed through December 2020.  Our hope is to begin full production in 2021.  However, the safety of our artists and patrons remain paramount, and our process for reopening will be guided by health officials and science.  We are prepared to weather the storm.  Our annual fundraising holiday gala remains necessary, and we look forward to celebrating the holidays with you in a fun and innovative way.    Working together, The Wayward Artist has a bright future.

 

Despite our inability to offer our productions, this third season remains about identity.  The Black Lives Matter movement has motivated us to again take a hard look at ourselves.  Who are we?  What is our purpose?  What are the stories we want to tell?  Our company remains committed to creating a home for the wayward artist—the lost, the naked, the vulnerable.  Thus, we stand on the side of the marginalized and oppressed and we strive towards true diversity, equity, and inclusion.  We are a beacon of hope and change here in Orange County.  We have included in our newsletter Wayward’s action plan moving forward.

 

Finally, I once again express my gratitude for your continued support.  Our work is not possible without you.  I hope you and your loved ones are healthy and safe.  Please know the thoughts and prayers of our entire company are with you.  

 

Best wishes, 

 

Craig Tyrl
Artistic Director, The Wayward Artist