The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis recently received a $25,000 grant from Monsanto Fund to support The Rep's Imaginary Theatre Company (ITC). Through a touring program that includes visits to schools, libraries and community centers throughout the bi-state metropolitan St. Louis region, ITC introduces young audiences to the magic of live, professional theatre.
"We are thrilled to continue The Rep's long relationship with Monsanto Fund as a community partner," said Steven Woolf, The Rep's artistic director, "and we are extremely grateful for their generous gift supporting our educational touring theatre program."
"For more than three decades, Monsanto Fund's sustained support-both as a season sponsor and as a major sponsor of dozens of productions-has helped The Rep fulfill its mission to serve the community and the art of theatre by presenting work of uncompromising quality."
Live theatre is a one-of-a-kind experience that blends entertainment and education. Now in its 33rd season, The Rep's Imaginary Theatre Company has introduced children of all ages to classic works of literature, extraordinary people, history-making events, the artistry of theatre and, most importantly, the joy of creative thinking and lively discussion.
The original scripts that The Rep commissions for ITC are rich in language, action-packed and alive with vivid characters and stimulating thoughts and ideas. As The Rep's traveling ambassadors, ITC specializes in bringing the excitement of live, professional theatre to young audiences in local and rural communities throughout Missouri, Southern Illinois and the regional Midwest, performing in theatres, schools, community centers, hospitals-virtually anywhere there is an audience ready to have an adventure. In addition, of course, each year ITC shows are featured in several special public performances on The Rep's Mainstage at the Loretto-Hilton Center.
"The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis does a wonderful job of introducing young St. Louisans to the performing arts through the Imaginary Theatre Company," said Deborah Patterson, president of Monsanto Fund. "Monsanto Fund is proud to support the organization's mission of providing high-quality live theatre throughout the community."
About the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis
Since its founding in 1966, The Repertory Theatre of St. Louis (The Rep) has become the region's most-honored live, professional theatre company. Each season, The Rep produces a variety of works on its stages: comedies, dramas and musicals, including new interpretations of established theatre literature, bold reinventions of classic works, contemporary plays from leading playwrights, and world premiere works created by some of the most talented writers working for the stage.
With a history that includes over 450 productions and a strong commitment to community service, outreach and education, The Rep remains dedicated to advancing the art of theatre and to contributing to the growth, vitality and diversity of its community. For more information about The Rep's programs and productions, visit www.repstl.org.
Monsanto Fund is the philanthropic arm of the Monsanto Company. Incorporated in 1964, the Fund's primary objective is to improve the lives of people by bridging the gap between their needs and their resources. Monsanto Fund is focused on grant-making in four main areas: nutritional well-being through agriculture; science education, primarily on professional development for teachers; the environment, which includes conservation, protection of biodiversity, clean water and restoration of wildlife habitat; and improving the quality of life in communities where Monsanto employees live and work. For more information about Monsanto Fund, visit www.monsantofund.org.
