Rethinking Theatre Access: Parallels with Public Parks

Since early September, Prospect Park has become a gathering place for thousands eager to experience a performance of Molière's work. Some attendees are seasoned theatre-goers, while many others happen upon the show during a casual stroll through the park.

There’s something remarkable about witnessing a diverse crowd unite in an open-air theatre year after year. For the past five years, I’ve relished directing these performances, collaborating with talented actors, designers, and theatre professionals.

Each year starts with a guiding principle: access to outstanding theatre should be universal, regardless of financial capability. We tackle these classic plays with the same dedication and skill expected in any paid production, freely sharing our work with the audience. Attendees can enjoy the experience without weighing the cost against their resources.

In 2018, when I founded Molière in the Park, my vision was clear: produce professional renditions of Molière's plays, offer them at no charge, and foster joy and connection. Ultimately, I aimed to provide a platform that mirrors what theatre has provided since ancient times: a shared space for people to navigate and understand their world.

Today, as ticket prices continue to soar, I ponder an intriguing scenario: How would it reshape society if access to parks depended solely on one’s ability to pay? Prospect Park remains open to all, reflecting a collective decision that its value transcends monetary barriers. We accept that beautiful parks enhance communities, fostering a sense of belonging and care from the city.

This analogy extends to cultural access. Just as maintaining parks involves significant funding, offering theatre free of charge doesn’t eliminate its costs. Artistic creation still demands high-caliber talent, innovative design, and deep engagement with the material—all of which require substantial resources.

This principle holds particular weight for Molière's plays; the depth of skill and discipline we bring to analyzing their content and context enhances their impact. In this case, artistic quality complements accessibility rather than hinders it.

Pierre Dux, a notable 20th-century French actor and director, aptly described Molière's lasting significance as “ce comique profondément humain,” highlighting his deeply human comedy that enables audiences to see reflections of themselves and their relationships in the characters.

When I started Molière in the Park, I struggled to articulate my belief that Molière's works could form the backbone of a free theatre initiative aimed at broadening accessibility. The question "Why Molière?" lingered in my mind.

With time, I've discovered the answer. Molière serves as an ideal vessel for this mission, as his plays resonate with universal human experiences. His widespread appeal during his lifetime and the lasting relevance of his works spring from their ability to evoke self-reflection. Done well, we can present his comedies in a manner that invites everyone, regardless of background, to share in laughter at the follies of human nature—be it hypocrites, misers, or those utterly blind to their surroundings. Our current production of Don Juan exemplifies this, showcasing a charming yet disillusioned character who believes no societal rules apply to him.

This perspective shifts the notion of access beyond simply eliminating ticket prices. While free admission can bring people in, it's the ongoing commitment to high artistic standards that allows these centuries-old plays to work their magic once they arrive.

Returning to the parks analogy, we invest in these public spaces because we recognize that beautifully maintained environments accessible to everyone strengthen community ties. We need to apply this same belief to the arts. Ensuring free access to exceptional art requires not just creativity but also expertise, care, and considerable resources. Just like parks, supporting cultural initiatives is an investment in the vitality and wellness of our communities.

Lucie Tiberghien is the founding executive director of Molière in the Park. With over 15 years of experience in developing and directing new theatrical works across the U.S., she is dedicated to expanding theatre's reach.