John Tufts rehearsing AN ILIAD.

Our Vision and Mission

Mission Statement

Rogue Theater Company (RTC) at the Richard L. Hay Center is dedicated to presenting thought-provoking plays that inspire, enthrall, and illuminate our common humanity.

A Note from Artistic Director Jessica Sage

I believe theater has the ability to create a better society. Since our inception in 2019, our vision has been to foster dialogue, cultivate empathy, and inspire curiosity through the transformative art of theater. On stage, we explore differences and reveal shared human experiences, creating powerful emotional connections between performers and audience members. Theater is both universal and deeply personal, offering moments of resonance that linger long after the curtain falls. We are committed to bringing this art form to life in ways that move, challenge, and inspire. We hope that after attending one of our productions, you leave with your heart and mind stirred.

Values

We are an Actors' Equity Small Professional Theater dedicated to creating an environment that supports the art, our artists, and our team. We believe in a workplace that is equitable, diverse, and inclusive. We do not engage in discrimination, harassment, or unwelcome conduct based on an individual's race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, religion, disability, citizenship, or immigration status. 

Giving Back

RTC is dedicated to giving back to the community, and the opening of each play benefits local non-profits. Past recipients include Planned Parenthood SW Oregon, the Maslow Project, Community Works, the Almeda Fire Relief efforts, Resolve Center for Dispute Resolution and Restorative Justice, Southern Oregon Coalition for Racial Equity, Project De La Raíz, the Ashland Food Project, Friends of the Animal Shelter (FOTAS), and Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASA). Ever since the Supreme Court overturned Roe vs. Wade we’ve made the decision to donate a portion of all our openings to Planned Parenthood SW Oregon. We also offer complimentary and discount tickets to the staff, board, and volunteers from PPSWO.

Additionally, RTC offers $15 discounted tickets to students and teachers.

Eileen DeSandre and Annie Paul in FRAGMENTS.

The heart is in the art. That’s RTC! ~Shirley Patton