“Get ready to be transported to a world of vibrant colors and pulsating rhythms as the Northwest Arkansas community comes together to celebrate the power of Black excellence. On stage at Quapaw Quarter United Methodist Church, a poignant production of ‘For Colored Girls’ takes center stage, weaving a rich tapestry of stories, emotions, and experiences that will leave audiences moved, inspired, and eager for more. As the curtains open, the true essence of this powerful and timely work will be revealed, one that tackles the brutal realities of racism, identity, and the human spirit’s unwavering resilience. What happens when the lines between reality and fiction blur, and the strength of our collective voice becomes the greatest act of art? In this powerful adaptation of Alice Walker’s classic novel, we find the answer in the words and voices of a talented cast, a talented crew, and a community united in their quest for justice, equality, and the unwavering pursuit of our truest selves. Join us
Community Outreach: Engaging with the Local Community
TheatreSquared’s production of ‘For Colored Girls’ has been a significant undertaking for the local community, and the theatre company has made a concerted effort to engage with the community through various outreach programs.
One of the key initiatives has been the ‘Talkback Series,’ which provides a platform for audience members to discuss the play with the cast and creative team after each performance. This has been a huge success, with many audience members praising the opportunity to engage with the performers and learn more about the play’s themes and messages.
The theatre company has also partnered with local organizations to provide educational programs and workshops related to the play. For example, they have worked with the University of Arkansas to develop a series of educational materials and workshops that explore the play’s themes of identity, community, and social justice.
Additionally, TheatreSquared has made a concerted effort to engage with the local African American community, recognizing the importance of representation and inclusivity in the production. They have worked with local community leaders and organizations to ensure that the production is culturally sensitive and respectful, and have also provided opportunities for local artists and performers to be involved in the production.
Community Outreach Programs
- Talkback Series: A post-performance discussion with the cast and creative team
- Workshops and educational programs: Developed in partnership with the University of Arkansas
- Cultural sensitivity and representation: Working with local community leaders and organizations
- Opportunities for local artists and performers: Collaborations with local arts organizations
Supporting Local Artists: Developing Emerging Talent
TheatreSquared’s production of ‘For Colored Girls’ has also provided opportunities for local artists and performers to develop their skills and gain experience working on a professional production.
The theatre company has worked with local arts organizations to provide training and mentorship programs for emerging artists, and has also provided opportunities for local artists to be involved in the production as designers, directors, and performers.
This has been a win-win for both the theatre company and the local arts community, as it provides emerging artists with valuable experience and skills, while also ensuring that the production is culturally sensitive and authentic.
Supporting Local Artists
- Training and mentorship programs: Developed in partnership with local arts organizations
- Opportunities for local artists and performers: Collaborations with local arts organizations
- Cultural sensitivity and representation: Working with local community leaders and organizations
- Developing emerging talent: Providing opportunities for local artists to gain experience and skills
Arkansas Arts Council’s 2025 Governor’s Arts Awards
The Arkansas Arts Council has announced the recipients of the 2025 Governor’s Arts Awards, and TheatreSquared is thrilled to be recognized for its contributions to the arts in Arkansas.
The awards program, which was established in 1991, recognizes individuals, organizations, and businesses that have made significant contributions to the arts in Arkansas. This year’s recipients include:
- Arts in Education Award: TheatreSquared
- Corporate Sponsorship of the Arts: Procter & Gamble
- Folklife Award: Northwest Arkansas Handweavers Guild
- Individual Artist: Fayetteville poet Suzanne Underwood Rhodes
- Judges Recognition Award: The Dulcimer Shoppe in Mountain View
- Patron Award: Brigita Gardner of Roland
- Lifetime Achievement Award: Becky Witsell of Little Rock
2025 Governor’s Arts Awards Ceremony
The awards ceremony will take place on March 7 at the Robinson Center in Little Rock, and tickets will go on sale on January 1. The ceremony will feature performances and tributes to the award recipients, and will be a celebration of the arts in Arkansas.
Theatre in Little Rock and Beyond
Drama and Theatre Events in Little Rock
Little Rock has a thriving theatre scene, with a variety of productions and events taking place throughout the year. Some of the top theatre events in Little Rock include:
- ‘For Colored Girls’ at Quapaw Quarter UMC
- ‘A Year With Frog and Toad’ at Actors Theatre of Little Rock
- ‘The Prom’ at Actors Theatre of Little Rock
- ‘West Side Story’ at Actors Theatre of Little Rock
- ‘A Raisin in the Sun’ at Actors Theatre of Little Rock
- ‘The Rocky Horror Show’ at Actors Theatre of Little Rock
- ‘Hairspray’ at Actors Theatre of Little Rock
- Improv workshops at the Little Rock Improv Theatre
- Musical theatre workshops at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre
- Acting workshops at the University of Arkansas
- Screenwriting workshops at the Arkansas Film Society
Attending a Theatre Workshop
Attending a theatre workshop can be a fun and rewarding experience, and can provide valuable skills and knowledge for anyone interested in the performing arts. Some of the top theatre workshops in Little Rock include:
Tribute and Memorial Gifts
Honor or Memorial Gifts
Honor or memorial gifts are a meaningful way to pay tribute to someone who has touched your life. By making a donation in someone’s name, you can help support the arts in Arkansas and honor their memory.
TheatreSquared offers a variety of tribute and memorial gift options, including:
- Bookplate recognition: A bookplate will be placed in a book with the honoree’s name and a message
- Letter acknowledgement: The honoree will receive a letter acknowledging your generosity
- Performance recognition: The honoree will be recognized during a performance or event
To make a tribute or memorial gift, please contact TheatreSquared at 501-918-3025 or [email protected].
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recent production of ‘For Colored Girls’ at Quapaw Quarter UMC has underscored the timelessness and universality of Ntozake Shange’s iconic choreopoem. As discussed in this article, the play’s exploration of themes such as identity, sisterhood, and resilience in the face of systemic oppression continues to resonate deeply with contemporary audiences. The production’s use of a diverse cast and innovative staging brought new life to the classic work, demonstrating its enduring relevance and ability to spark crucial conversations about social justice and human experience.
The significance of ‘For Colored Girls’ extends far beyond the realm of entertainment, speaking to broader societal issues that persist today. The play’s portrayal of the complex lives of women of color serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality and representation. As we look to the future, it is clear that works like ‘For Colored Girls’ will continue to play a vital role in shaping our cultural narrative and inspiring meaningful change. By amplifying the voices and stories of marginalized communities, we can work towards a more just and equitable society.
As we reflect on the impact of ‘For Colored Girls,’ we are reminded that the power of art lies not only in its ability to reflect reality but also to shape it. As we move forward, may we continue to prioritize the telling of diverse stories and the amplification of marginalized voices, using the stage as a catalyst for transformation and positive change. Ultimately, it is through this collective effort that we can create a world where every woman – regardless of color – can live a life of dignity, empowerment, and unbridled possibility.