Abstract
This study focuses on how community engagement is defined and achieved in US theaters. Community engagement is a term used in a lot of contexts by a variety of institutions. There is not a single set definition, but there are guidelines that community engagement should fit into. Community engagement should be looked at to create connections and involve multiple parties. In recent years, it is clear that many theaters are seeking to increase community involvement and have taken action to do so. Many people have voiced thoughts about perceived benefits for community engagement, but these are mostly focused on the audience rather than the theater itself, even though there are benefits for the theater to being involved in the community.
Advisor
Huston-Findley, Shirley
Department
Theatre and Dance
Recommended Citation
Lennox, Keara M., "Breaking the Fourth Wall: Community Engagement in US Theaters" (2026). Senior Independent Study Theses. Paper 13413.
https://openworks.wooster.edu/independentstudy/13413
Disciplines
Arts and Humanities | Theatre and Performance Studies
Keywords
Community engagement, Theater, Community, Connection
Publication Date
2026
Degree Granted
Bachelor of Arts
Document Type
Senior Independent Study Thesis
© Copyright 2026 Keara M. Lennox
