My Nonprofit Reviews

The fourth wall refers to an imaginary "wall" that traditionally exists between actors on stage and the audience. When "breaking the fourth wall" actors acknowledge the presence of their audience and the presence of the wall that isn't there. Playing on either side of this wall is theatrically legitimate. Over the years, the talented leadership of 4th Wall Theatre has clearly understood that being forward looking, while at the same time keeping up traditions, creates theatre experiences that edify both actors and audiences. I admire this company for upholding the theatre traditions that matter the most: a generosity of spirit; an active imagination; a high standard of performance excellence; a supportive environment that builds strong comradery among artists; and most of all, an emphasis on honest story telling as a way to bring people together through a shared experience. I also admire 4th Wall Theatre for for the ways it breaks with tradition by mounting otherwise rarely produced pieces and new works that have never been seen on stage before. The Mid Stage and Off the Wall productions have given new works and new writers the coveted opportunity to be seen and heard. Not many small theatre companies are willing to make that investment and take that risk. In the nine years I have worked with the company I have not had a disappointing experience. The artistic leadership seems to have an uncanny ability to put together groups of performers who show the highest respect for each other on stage and off. I believe this stems from the initial respect and consideration shown to those who attend auditions, and it continues to those who give up their time and talent to mount the actual productions. As a Bloomfield resident I am thrilled to have 4th Wall Theatre as a part of my home community; as an actor and audience member I am just as excited to see what the future holds for them.