Utah Shakespeare Festival cancels 2018 production of “Pearl’s in the House”
The Utah Shakespeare Festival has cancelled the 2018 production of “Pearl’s in the House.” Citing culturally insensitive communications issued by the guest director and creator of “Pearl’s in the House” regarding casting, the Utah Shakespeare Festival issued the following statement:
“These communications, which were brought to our attention after the fact, were not in harmony with the values and mission of the festival which includes a deep commitment to diversity and inclusion. The festival regrets the harm this incident caused a potential member of our company and artists who were planning to work on the show and any inconveniences it may cause our guests.”
“Our 2018 season is thematically based on ideas of the adverse effects of intolerance in our culture,” Executive producer Frank Mack. “The offensive communications that led us to cancel this production are completely contrary to these values and the artistic objectives we are pursuing this season.”
‘It is an unfortunate set of circumstances for all the artists who have put so much work into the process, but our organizational culture and values take precedence always,” said artistic director Brian Vaughn. “This was an incredibly difficult decision because of the impact this would have on so many parties; however, continuing the production would not add to our mission and our values but would detract from them.”
As a result of this change, the festival will add performances of “An Iliad,” which will take place in the Eileen and Allen Anes Studio Theater in selected slots that were previously designated for “Pearl’s in the House.” The festival will be reaching out to guests who have already purchased tickets to “Pearl’s in the House” to help them with exchanges or refunds.
For more information on the 2018 season of The Utah Shakespeare Festival, please visit bard.org or call (800) PLAYTIX.
Articles related to “Utah Shakespeare Festival cancels 2018 production of ‘Pearl’s in the House'”
Utah Marlowe Festival opens in St. George, strains relations with Cedar City
Shakespeare implicated as a stoner: verily, nothing is sacred
‘Guess Fred C. Adams’ Middle Name’ annual competition begins Feb. 1
