The Company’s long association with the United States
The Company’s long association with the United States began in the late nineteenth century when Americans contributed to the building of a year-round theatre dedicated to the work of William Shakespeare in the place of his birth.
The relationship took on an added dimension when in 1913 productions from the original Shakespeare Memorial Theatre in Stratford-upon-Avon visited over 25 US cities. But it was following a 1926 fire which destroyed the Victorian theatre that Americans came to the fore during a campaign to raise funds for a new theatre.
The American Shakespeare Foundation provided over $293,000 (then equivalent to £58,700). But it was John D. Rockefeller, Jr., whose gift of $500,000 (equivalent to £100,000) was given “in recognition of the debt which Great Britain and the United States in common owe to Shakespeare for all that he has meant to the millions of people in both countries whose lives have been enriched and inspired by his genius” assured the campaign’s success and the building of the theatre which opened in 1932. The overall campaign raised about £235,000 of which the generosity by American individuals, clubs, colleges and schools gave more than half the total needed.
That generosity of spirit, mutual respect and admiration for the works of William Shakespeare continues today. Americans maintain their passion for Shakespeare and for the excellence of the ensemble that uniquely presents his work at his birthplace through contributions to Royal Shakespeare Company America.
Royal Shakespeare Company America, Inc.
Royal Shakespeare Company America [RSC America] supports the activities of the Royal Shakespeare Company in the United Kingdom, the United States, and throughout the world, through sponsorships, education, development, fundraising and other efforts. RSC America operates as an active and independent organisation with a committed Board and American support structure.
Established as a tax-exempt organisation under IRS 501(c)(3) ruling in 1996, RSC America receives charitable donations from American supporters of the RSC. The RSC America Board periodically reviews grant proposals from the RSC and distributes funds in support of its mission and the mission of the RSC. Most recently, RSC America has supported the capital campaign to transform our theatres (including the Take Your Seat campaign), new work, new writing, the Literary Department, support of the Henry V production, the 2008 Gala and general operating costs.
For more information about RSC America contact:
Steven Gelston
Treasurer/Secretary
Royal Shakespeare Company America
P.O. Box 1956 - Radio City Station
New York, NY 10101
Telephone: 212-247-1705
Email: info.rsca@rsc.org.uk
Supporting RSC America
In recognition of a donation to RSC America, the Royal Shakespeare Company provides additional information on the workings of the Company and issues invitations to behind-the-scene occasions in Stratford and social events worldwide.
As a courtesy to supporters of RSC America, donors have direct access to Stratford for planning visits or answering questions about the RSC’s work worldwide. Our colleague, Michele Cottiss, in Stratford will be delighted to assist you:
Michele Cottiss
Development Administrator
Royal Shakespeare Company
The Courtyard Theatre
Southern Lane
Stratford-upon-Avon
Warwickshire
CV37 6BB
Telephone: 011 44 1789 201751
Email: michele.cottiss@rsc.org.uk
For general enquires about the RSC please email development@rsc.org.uk.
