ACT Ensemble is fundamentally about creating spaces of possibility.
ACT Ensemble’s approach is philosophically oriented toward the potential for liberation through art, specifically the creation and exploration of the performing arts as an inquiry into the human condition. Storytelling and embodied practices are how we get there.
ACT Ensemble believes high-quality, aesthetically-rich art should be available to all, rather than inaccessible and elitist. We believe in the intrinsic value of art for all lives. We believe all people possess the capacity for wonder and art.
ACT Ensemble envisions a world of accessible art spaces, shared and abundant resources for artists, and a world without punishment and retribution. As we strive for this horizon, ACT has the privilege of creating outstanding art alongside the brilliance of incarcerated artists in the here and now.
We share curiosity, joy, and humanity by accomplishing the near impossible – performing art in spaces of confinement.
We believe anything worth doing is worth doing together.
The connected relationships between individuals, groups, and ideas are of particular interest.
We move at the speed of trust.
We listen. We respond.
We are oriented toward holistic growth.
We show up as individuals and as an ensemble. We attend to both—self and group—as sites of inquiry. We are accountable to one another and to ourselves.
We practice emergent strategies. We look to nature for inspiration. Like any ecosystem, we recognize the value and strength in our diversity, our different roles to play. We expect change to occur; it always does. We seek collaboration.
We believe in transformative justice. No person is disposable, no act is unforgiveable. All harm carries the possibility of repair. We search for root causes. We acknowledge agency. No one is broken. No one requires saving or fixing.
We engage in reflection, sustaining inquisitiveness about ourselves and others.
We ask questions. We embrace complexity. We strive toward a sense of belonging.