Giving in Action

Last year I wrote this for the Wilma’s Artists, Board, and Staff in celebration of our 30th Anniversary Season.  It tells the story of why I think you should join me in supporting The Wilma Theater. 

Jiri and Blanka Zizka created the Wilma in 1979 and continue, 30 years later, as its co-Artistic Directors. The History, Philosophy, Mission, and Definition of the theatre are deeply intertwined with their personal life stories in a way that gives the Wilma its uniqueness among regional theaters.

They escaped from communist Czechoslovakia in 1976 when their theater was closed for refusing to conform to the state’s definition of “art.” They came to the United States looking for the freedom to “do their thing.” They had learned, understood, and understand now the human conflict between repressive bureaucracy and individual freedom. Their experience undoubtedly gives them a greater appreciation and love for the very things that most native-born Americans take for granted, and while they realize that constitutional democracy is far from perfect, the contrast between repression and freedom is worth keeping in mind.

This is a unique background which plays an important part in the approach to programs and productions which gives the Wilma a special place among regional theaters. No question – the Wilma is different!

Audiences love some of the plays and realize that they transcend pure entertainment, enriching life and understanding – provoking thought. And, yes, occasionally, audiences will be infuriated by others, with which they may disagree – politically or otherwise. But audiences rarely take them casually. They are hard to ignore! This is an adventurous approach. It can be risky, as the new, the experimental, and the controversial often are. It is edgy – but not boring!

Blanka and Jiri (and the Wilma as an institution) will tell you that their focus is on theater as an art form. Nothing wrong with that, and the production quality of every play demonstrates their abilities in that regard. And while not every presentation is a morality play (some are just plain fun), the venue is only enriched by the real-life experience of its leaders.

This history is what provides us with a unique point of view and drives us to bring you engaging, provocative drama. 

We hope you can and will help us continue to do just that by supporting the 2009-2010 season.

Gratefully,

A. E. (Ted) Wolf

Board Member, 20 years

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