Bootstraps Developing New Theatre Directors

We are seeking funding to cover the basics of producing these two shows for two early career directors.

Kaitlin Fortwengler and Bailey Story are two directors with very different approaches and different directing experiences. Kaitlin has acted for many years but is only now coming to direct, while Bailey has directed at college, but has little experience outside the academic sphere. By providing them with this opportunity, we help them to develop a portfolio of recognized work in our local community, as well as an opportunity to learn from mistakes and triumphs. Both having directed a one-act play already, they are currently working on their full-length show, each having a week in the space to load in, rehearse, and produce the play for four performances. Kaitlin directs Five Women Wearing The Same Dress by Alan Ball, from March 23 to 26, while Bailey directs The Shape Of Things by Neil La Bute, running between March 30th and April 2nd.

While we aim that the shows will cover much of their costs, there are base needs that will be hard to cover that have to be paid upfront. As the whole enterprise is based on removing the financial burden from them to make it possible, that burden still must be met. Costs that come before any design or artistic element are met include:

Rights & Scripts for 8 performances- $1277

Venue Rental for 2 weeks - $1040

Poster Design - $210

Insurance - $150

Advertising / programs / ticketing Costs - $250

This is all the general costs, before show-specific costs, such as costume, props, intimacy coordination, etc. are factored in. We aim always to keep ticket prices low so more people can have an opportunity to see these two artists' work in person, and while we hope that ticket sales will cover the majority of the show costs, it is important to try to alleviate some of these burdens in advance to prevent their work from being compromised.

Bootstraps was set up to provide opportunities for early career or first-time theatre directors to develop their craft through doing the job in the real world, working outside of school and university settings, and within the theatre community here in Kentuckiana. Bootstraps aims to give people with a good eye for the stage a chance to develop their experience and a portfolio of work that they can then use to gain more chances to practice the art and craft. Donating to this project helps two more people ready themselves to work with others to a high standard, and welcomes two voices into our local theatrical discussion that we have not had before.