The Guthrie Theater is a world-renowned theater company and cultural institution located in Minneapolis, MN. The theater was founded in 1963 by Sir Tyrone Guthrie, an English theater director and producer, and has since become one of the most respected and influential theaters in the United States.
The Guthrie Theater is housed in a striking building designed by French architect Jean Nouvel. The building is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River and features three distinctive performance spaces, as well as rehearsal rooms, offices, and other support facilities.
The largest of the Guthrie’s performance spaces is the Wurtele Thrust Stage, which can accommodate up to 1,100 audience members. The stage is surrounded by seating on three sides, creating an intimate and immersive theatrical experience. The theater is known for its innovative and ambitious productions, which often feature large casts, complex staging, and stunning visual effects.
In addition to the Wurtele Thrust Stage, the Guthrie also has a 700-seat proscenium stage, the McGuire Proscenium Stage, which is used for larger-scale productions and operas. The theater’s third performance space, the Dowling Studio, is a more intimate space that is used for experimental and avant-garde productions.
The Guthrie Theater is committed to fostering the next generation of theater artists, and offers a range of educational programs and initiatives for young people. These programs include theater camps, workshops, and internships that provide hands-on training and experience in various aspects of theater production.
The Guthrie is also known for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, both in its programming and in its organizational culture. The theater has a dedicated Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion department that works to ensure that the theater is welcoming and accessible to people of all backgrounds and identities.
Throughout its history, the Guthrie Theater has played a pivotal role in the cultural life of Minneapolis and the broader region. The theater has premiered numerous groundbreaking productions, and has hosted some of the most celebrated theater artists of our time, including Arthur Miller, Tony Kushner, and Anna Deavere Smith.
Today, the Guthrie continues to be a vital and innovative force in American theater, pushing the boundaries of what is possible on stage and inspiring audiences with its bold and transformative productions. With its stunning facilities, world-class productions, and commitment to education and inclusion, the Guthrie Theater is a true gem of the Minneapolis arts scene and a beloved cultural institution for theater-lovers around the world.