Who Are We?
Nuance Theatre Co. was founded by Artistic Director John DeSotelle in 2013 refining the ideas and ideals of its predecessor, the Fitzwater Theatre Company, whose work created theatre of lasting resonance in California and upstate New York.
The name "Nuance" speaks to the fine-tuned work of devoted actors, the subtle depth with which we explore masterful pieces, and the utmost care we as artists use to pursue our craft. We pride ourselves on our innovative approach to staging; creating a world in which the life and truth of the play can emerge. We strive to spark new insight into well-loved works through careful direction and a deep exploration of the text informing audiences to see with newly opened eyes. ​
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Our Work:
The walls of our theatre have seen many productions, some larger than life sets erected and struck, and hundreds of audience members filing into an unknown world and re-emerging with a soul full of art.
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Since its birth in 2013, Nuance Theatre has tested the boundaries of close up theater and welcomed the question “can you really do that in a black box?” In 2014, our production of Clifford Odets’ Awake and Sing, was staged in a complete, consummately reconstructed tenement apartment, which the actors inhabited without escape. Since then, we have continued to push the limits and surprise audiences with our designs and innovations. Rabbit Hole brought us a modern, fully furnished apartment littered with the reminders of a child lost; Hamlet immersed our audience in the royal but cold walls of a castle in Elsinore, complete with a drawbridge and the looming ghost of Hamlet’s father; most recently, Chamber Music trapped us in the dusty attic of a women’s insane asylum where the inmates have one window to the outside world and the only light present streams through cracks in the rafters. So, to answer the always present question of “can you really do that in a black box theatre”, we answer “yes we can.”
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​Education, Collaboration and Independent Theatre:
Nuance Theatre Co. is closely associated with the John DeSotelle Acting Studio, which tends heavily towards a Meisner-based process (living truthfully through imagined circumstances). Student graduates of the program have the opportunity to audition to become Nuance company members, many debuting in Nuance productions, to great acclaim. We strongly believe in developing the work and careers of emerging artists, be it actor, director, stage manager, designer, or producer who shares our love of making theatre. ​Wholeheartedly devoted to collaboration, and creating a community of actors within what is, too often, a solitary occupation, our door is always open, and we are known for forging new artistic friendships and connecting artists from all corners of the many performing arts fields.
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As well, Nuance Theatre Co. celebrates the distinctive theatrical experience of Close-up Theater. Performances take place close to the audience allowing them to feel as though they’re a part of the story in a familiar, personal way. By promoting this idea, Nuance hopes to encourage theater-goers to look beyond the Broadway paradigm and consider the remarkable efforts and talents of the actors, creators and small independent theatrical companies consistently working to bring unique and extraordinary artistic experiences to an intimate stage as part of the NYC Indie-theatre scene.