Pittsburgh Irish and Classical Theatre

We cordially invite you to become an esteemed member of the Pittsburgh International Classic Theatre (PICT) family and contribute to the transformation of the theatrical landscape, not only in the city of Pittsburgh but also on a global scale. Allow us to share the ongoing developments and explain why your participation in this new phase of PICT is an opportunity not to be missed.

We are currently raising funds to rebuild, restructure, and reimagine the future of Pittsburgh Classic Theatre. Your generous donations, regardless of size, will significantly contribute to the realization of our innovative vision. With your invaluable assistance, we shall once again grace the stage with captivating productions that promise to astonish, enthrall, and ignite your imagination.

We are honored to introduce our new Artistic Director, Elizabeth Elias Huffman. Born and raised in the picturesque town of Monongahela, just outside of Pittsburgh, Ms. Huffman is an award-winning theatre artist who has recently returned to her roots after accumulating extensive experience in theatres across the United States and Europe. Her international perspective, remarkable leadership acumen, and wealth of professional expertise are certain to breathe new life into PICT and guide our theatre in a resplendent new direction for all to revel in.

About PICT:

Since 1996, PICT Classical Theatre has proudly served as the city's premier destination for exceptional productions of classic and Irish theatre. Our mission is twofold: to explore contemporary social issues through the prism of time-honored plays and to celebrate the prodigious talents of local professional actors, designers, technicians, and artists.

Having garnered international acclaim for over a quarter-century, we take pride in our roots within a cherished local community. We are honored to perform in the historic Fred Rogers Studio at WQED, a symbol of our commitment to cultivating both entertainment and educational resources for our community year after year.

Some of the exciting new initiatives we are striving to accomplish in the upcoming year:

● We are broadening our programming horizons to encompass multimedia presentations of traditional plays, inventive reinterpretations of classical works, and contemporary pieces that resonate with today's diverse community.

● Our vision includes extending the reach of theatre to underrepresented communities in the greater Pittsburgh area, such as the Mon Valley, where access to professional theatre is limited yet highly sought after.

● We aspire to forge collaborations and co-productions with other companies and artists, giving rise to uniquely conceived shows for PICT audiences. Our aim is to offer multilingual, ethnically diverse, and cross-cultural amalgamations that result in fresh and captivating storytelling styles within the realm of performance art.

● Our plans encompass staging international plays, both classical and contemporary, drawn from the global theatrical canon. This includes new works from Ireland, which remains a vital and cherished component of PICT's mission.

● We intend to reinvigorate and invest in our highly successful educational programs, ranging from apprentice training initiatives for professional actors to school and outreach efforts. These endeavors will enrich and educate the upcoming generation of theatre-makers and our esteemed audiences.

How shall we utilize your generous contributions, you wonder?

As soon as the requisite funds are secured, we plan to recruit a dynamic and diverse team to fill four pivotal roles that are indispensable to the daily operations of any thriving theatre company.

Our aim is to appoint a Bookkeeper, Grant Writer, Managing Director, and Marketing Director, forming a dream team that will collaborate with Eliza to steer a fiscally responsible and artistically flourishing theatre company. With this in place, we eagerly anticipate curating a dazzling 2024/25 season!

We extend our heartfelt gratitude in advance for your support of this meaningful endeavor that holds great significance for everyone at PICT. Please consider contributing whatever you can, or simply help spread the word to those who understand the profound importance of sustaining theatre, not only in Pittsburgh but wherever the human experience gives rise to stories yearning to be shared.

In unison with our board of directors, your invaluable contributions, and our unwavering determination, we are confident in our ability to raise the necessary funds to resume our true passion—delivering world-class theatre productions that captivate, inspire, and entertain you throughout the year!

*Many thanks to Ben Drickman for his generous work on our video