My Nonprofit Reviews
Brendan M.
Review for Gorilla Repertory Theater Company Inc, New York, NY, USA
I can still recall seeing Gorilla Rep´s "A Midsummer Night´s Dream" one summer in New York in 1993. The actors´ physicality coupled with the words of Shakespeare were not the only reasons why this (free) show in Washington Square Park was so enjoyable. It also was the sense from the actors and the director, Chris Sanderson, that this company were engaged with something primal, magical, mysterious. What a delight, experiencing theater practiced by men and women who hold this to be a key principle! And they are still going strong, nearly 20 years later, providing free Shakespeare (and new works) to audiences throughout the 5 boroughs of New York.
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I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
The bulk of my experience of Gorilla Rep has been as an audience member, enjoying the work that they produce. I have only helped actively with producing their work since 2010.
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
If there was a way that the company could work year-round (despite the challenges of climate on the East Coast), that would be wonderful. Also, it would be great to have the roles within the artistic staff expand--again, so that more of this style of theater could be produced for the public. Mr. Sanderson´s commitment and investment in Gorilla Rep is extraordinary, but I´d love to see how the company could expand if there were 2 or 3 others sharing the responsibilities of directing, producing, managing.
How does this organization compare with others in the same sector?
Quite well
How much of an impact do you think this organization has?
A lot
Will you recommend this organization to others?
Definitely
What is unique about this organization?
They provide high-quality productions of Shakespeare in public spaces in New York on an ongoing basis, for free. This alone is noteworthy. They also tend to have an aesthetic that is "poor" in the sense that production values (set, lighting, costumes) are minimalized, and the emphasis is placed on the actor, their bodies & voices, and the words & story of the playwright.
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2010
