Merely Players

A nonprofit organization

Merely Players is a locally acclaimed non-profit theatre company founded in Durango, Colorado, in 1995.   The company produced thought-provoking and entertaining shows on an irregular basis until 2011 when Mona Wood-Patterson and Charles Ford left Durango High School and the theatre department there to pursue Merely Players full time.  Merely Players is a semi-professional theatre company.  We use many talented local people onstage and backstage.  We are also dedicated to bringing back professional actors who grew up in Durango and have gained training and experience over the years.

*Merely Players was founded by Mona Wood-Patterson and Charles Ford in 1995. Formerly the theatre directors at Durango High School, where they built a program that garnered local, statewide, and national recognition.

Mission

Merely Players is a locally acclaimed non-profit theatre company, founded by Mona Wood-Patterson and Charles Ford in 1994. Formerly the theatre directors at Durango High School, Mona and Charles built a program that garnered local, statewide, and national recognition before moving their talents full time to Merely Players.

OUR VISION:

*To enrich the cultural life of our community by consistently providing quality theatre, as we broaden the range of theatrical experiences available to local theatergoers through relevant, exciting productions

*To nurture and provide opportunity for community and homegrown artists, as we celebrate imagination, innovation, and creativity in every aspect of our productions

*To foster collaborations with other local artists and groups

*To offer dynamic educational and outreach programs

CORE VALUES:

COMMUNITY – We believe that a vibrant artistic scene enhances a community and that the performing arts are vital.

INTEGRITY – We are committed to being fair, trustworthy, respectful, kind, and honest.

ARTISTRY – We are passionate about creating theatrical excellence.

INCLUSION – Embracing diversity as a key element of a vibrant society, we value all humans and the unique spirit, ability, and talent of each person who comes our way. We are dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming space for all.

RESPONSIBILITY – As a non-profit organization and business, we are committed to sound financial practices and sustainability. We will foster an environment of communication, respect, accountability, health, and safety.

Background Statement

One of the reasons Durango is ranked as one of the top small towns to live in is because of the rich and varied culture within our beautiful surroundings. Merely Players' established reputation for theatrical excellence contributes to that vibrant environment.

In the belief that quality theatre shouldn't be reserved for big cities, we remain committed to offering exciting, high-quality theatrical experiences; and we promise you the lively creativity, joyful energy, memorable design, fine scripts, and outstanding talent that our company is known for.

As with theatres across the nation, ticket prices account for approximately 50% of our necessary income. The rest of our expenses must be met through private donations.

The money we raise directly affects the quality of our productions. Donations help us pay expenses for our venue, Merely Underground; to hire actors; to pay for and improve technical elements such as scenery, costumes, and lighting; and to publicize our shows.

Visit us at: www.merelyplayers.org for photos and reviews of our past work, including photos of our internship program.

You can also see photos and videos on Facebook and You Tube at Merely Players –Durango or on Instagram at merely_players_durango

We truly appreciate and are honored by your consideration.

Organization Data

Summary

Organization name

Merely Players

Year Established

1997

Tax id (EIN)

84-1443379

Category

Arts, Culture & Humanities, Recreation & Sports, Public & Societal Benefit, Community Improvement & Capacity Building

Organization Size

Medium Organization

Address

49 WEDGEWOOD CIR
DURANGO, CO 81301

Service areas

Durango, CO, US

Cortez, CO, US, 81321

Farmington, NM, US

Phone

9709462240

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