Theatrical Outfit Inc

OUR VISION

A compassionate community grounded in dignity, justice, and equity.

OUR MISSION

Produce world-class theatre that starts the conversations that matter.

Theatrical Outfit (TO) is proud to be Atlanta's downtown theatre.  The second oldest professional theatre in Atlanta, TO has brought exemplary artistry and integrity to the cultural landscape of the city for over 45 years. Since 2005, TO has made its home in the Balzer Theater at Herren’s on Luckie Street. This space is important to our identity in its downtown location as well as its historic significance: Herren's was the first white restaurant to voluntarily desegregate in 1962, risking backlash in the pursuit of racial equity. During the conversion of the space, TO preserved several pieces of this history, including the original Herren's sign, and made a commitment to environmental responsibility which led to our becoming the first theater in the country to receive LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. These facts are a physical manifestation of our commitment to equity and responsibility within our community.

Under the leadership of Artistic Director Matt Torney, TO’s work focuses on three pillars of programming for our audience in the heart of downtown Atlanta: the Mainstage Season, the “Made in Atlanta” new works program, and Community Engagement partnerships and events. 

TO’s 2022-23 Mainstage season includes four plays which focus on themes of community, resilience, and family, and is dedicated to reflecting gender balance and racial diversity. The plays include: the world premiere of “FLEX” by Candrice Jones; a co-production (with Dad’s Garage Theatre) of Sean Daniels' "The White Chip" followed by a two-week community tour; "Tiny Beautiful Things" by Nia Vardalos and Cheryl Strayed; and “The Humans" by Stephen Karam. We will also produce a weekend of holiday readings and music at the Rialto while our Balzer Theater lobby and façade undergo renovation.

The "Made in Atlanta” program enables TO to engage with new voices in our field and nurture the work of local artists. 2022-23 programs include “The Unexpected Play Festival”; development of our commissioned piece, “Young John Lewis”; and the 3rd year of the “Tom Key Arts Leadership Apprentice Program.”