Last years production of Sam Shepard's True West was a long time dream of mine and I couldn't have been more pleased with the outcome. As the show was coming to a close, cast and crew were asking me "so what's next?" I honestly hadn't been thinking that far ahead (I was bit preoccupied with trying to build a working kitchen on stage in three days), but it occurred to me that I needed to solidfy our goals as a theatre company. Where would yet another theatre company fit in, while setting itself apart? And what was it that we wanted to get out the productions.
So I sat down with a bottle of Basil Hayden and set my mind to what Missing Link Theatre Company was really all about. I came up with three missions:
-To produce shows with relatable substance. Conversation starters that strive to do more than simply entertain.
-To create a place where aspiring theatre talent could hone their craft. Whether performance or technical in aspect, it is important to us that we provide a professional setting for people just starting out.
-To support the Portland theatre community and fellow artists. I firmly believe that a rising tide lifts all ships, and supporting your local artists is just the right thing to do.
We've also made quite a few friends on our journey. Musicians, painters, poets, and novelists. All of whom we want to support in following their passions. We don't have much, but we are always willing to get together and make something happen. Right now we're a fledgling company, but we are growing with each production, and you are a part of that. Simply by being here you are supporting your community and the arts, and I just love that about you. In return, we will continue producing works that stir you up, get you thinking, and leave you wanting more.
My Sincerest Thanks,
Todd Thomas
Artistic Director
