Conceived with Mark Plesent before his passing in February 2021, The Mark Plesent Commission Fund supports the commission and development of new plays by working people — in particular, those who have not had the privilege or the resources to self-identify or support themselves professionally as artists, but who have shown extraordinary talent, consistency of practice and a commitment to writing within the mission of Working Theater.

Working Theater’s late Producing Artistic Director, Mark Plesent, led the company from 1996-2021. Known for bridging the access gap to theater, Mark leaned into work that reflected the racial, cultural, class, and economic differences of his constituency (what he called his beloved audience). He accepted that these differences would sometimes be divisive, but he always believed that ‘what makes us different is the most interesting thing about us.’

The fund raised $75,000 when launched with the goal of running for five years, and providing 10 playwrights with their first professional commission which includes providing an established playwright mentorship, financial support, and developmental support to writers who are deserving of an audience. Thank you to our community who made this fund possible!