About Interplayers

Mission

The mission of Spokane Interplayers Ensemble is to provide dynamic and innovative professional theatre to Spokane and the Inland Northwest. By developing and nurturing our regional talent base, raising the creative standards for regional theatrical production and expanding our artistic programming, Spokane Interplayers Ensemble strengthens its position as a significant Inland Northwest arts institution with local, regional and national impact.

History

In 1980, Spokane Interplayers Ensemble was founded by professional actors Robert and Joan Welch as the Inland Northwest's first resident professional theatre. It is a traditionally structured, not-for-profit theatre, managed by a professional staff and governed by a community-based board of directors. In its 26-year history the theatre has grown to become a recognized artistic institution of influence and impact in the region.

Our Community

Interplayers is a major contributor to the region's cultural quality of life, and is pivotal to the economic revitalization of downtown Spokane. The theatre works diligently to provide challenging, diverse and inspiring productions.

Since its founding, Interplayers has produced over 50 Pacific Northwest premieres. Critically, the theatre has been awarded countless honors over the years from the Spokane Critics' Circle. During the 2002-2003 season, the theatre received honors for Best Play Watch on the Rhine and Best Local Musical for Always...Patsy Cline; Best Ensemble honors went to the cast of Complete History of America (abridged) and Anton in Show Business; Michael Weaver, Keith Burkland and Tim Kniffin all received recognition for Best Actor; Holli Hornlien and Marguerite Hammersley received nods for Best Actress. In addition, Interplayers was honored for Best Season.

The organization has been honored with two Spokane Arts Commission Arts Awards and the City Voice Award for Spokane's Finest Theatre/Stage in 2002.