A national community of artists and organizations dedicated to collaborative creation, the Network of Ensemble Theaters (NET) works to propel ensemble theater practice to the forefront of culture and society.
What is an Ensemble?
NET defines an ensemble as a group of individuals dedicated to collaborative creation, committed to working together consistently over years to develop a distinctive body of work and practices. Ensemble members, both artists and administrators, are empowered as core decision-makers and help to shape their company's artistic direction and organizational structure.
How do I join?
We welcome all performance-based ensembles, collectives, artists, co-creators, practitioners, producers, scholars, educators, teaching artists, students, cultural workers, organizers, activists, policy makers, funders, community partners, and other allies. If you are intrigued by or passionate about collaborative artmaking, the theory and practice of collective creation or devising work, or the vitality of the ensemble sector, come join us!
Find out more about becoming a member of the NET community here.
NET advocates for ensemble theatermaking as a distinct element of the performing arts field, amplifying the collective voice of our 300+ member companies and individual practitioners for local and national impact.
Become a MemberNET hosts in-person and online events and gatherings to develop and deepen connections among NET members and colleagues, and provide opportunities for peer-based field learning and knowledge sharing.
Connect NowNurturing the ensemble community's growth, health and vibrancy, NET has distributed over $1 million to support NET members' relationship building and exchange. Connector, our member-only mobile app, is a hub for resource sharing.
Learn MoreWe are pleased to announce the 2021-22 NET/TEN Exchange Grant Recipients!
NET/TEN Exchange Grants build on and deepen existing relationships through shared activity and peer-to-peer learning.
See Full List of RecipientsWe are thrilled to announce the 12 ensemble members for our new NET/TEN Create + Activate initiative, a support space for BIPOC ensemble artists where courageous conversations can lead to a new paradigm of collectively-created culture and practices.
Recently selected through a peer panel review process, the cohort begins their journey together this month alongside an amazing project team. Over the next six months, the group will meet virtually to examine their integration of equity in their own personal artistic practices, and empower participants to brave forward the field of ensemble creation.
Please join us in wishing them energizing creativity as they embark on this shared learning, reflection, and exchange!
NET
As an organization that champions ensemble practice and collaborative creation, NET advocates for access, inclusion, and the empowered agency of multiple voices. We have published a full accountability statement to the community.
Read More
Sandglass Theater and Linda Parris-Bailey
NET/TEN 2018-19 Exchange
Eric Bass of Sandglass Theater (Putney, VT) and Linda Parris-Bailey (Knoxville, TN) shared and learned each other's approaches to writing, dramaturgy, puppetry, and song; they will examine how both artists stand in the moment of passing the legacy of their theaters into younger hands, while continuing to be creators of theater. The resulting project addresses both an exchange of creative practices and the act of leadership succession.
Read More
NET
The Network of Ensemble Theaters loudly and lovingly supports and honors the activists and community members who have taken to the streets this week in the Twin Cities and across the country to defend human and civil rights and demand justice for Black Americans.
Read More
NET
Over the last few weeks, NET has heard countless stories from our members of show cancellations, project interruptions, and financial uncertainty. The spread of COVID-19 and the need for physical distancing has made our collective work -- of bringing together communities through ensemble performance and practice -- extremely difficult. In this unsettling time, our social connections and the interwoven support and camaraderie provided by networks such as NET become even more critical.
Read More
