Rethinking Theater Criticism, a D.C.-based conference dedicated to discussions and workshops surrounding the modern evolution of theatrical criticism, will be held on two consecutive Saturdays later this month, February 18 and 25.

The conference is produced by the D.C.-based non-profit arts producer Day Eight, with D.C. favorite theatre companies Arena Stage, Shakespeare Theatre, Round House Theater, Woolly Mammoth Theater, Signature Theatre, Mosaic Theater, Studio Theater, Rorshach Theater, Gala Hispanic Theater, Studio Acting Conservatory, and Theater Washington participating.

Said Day Eight journalism program director Robert Bettmann: “Theatre journalism in Washington, D.C., is struggling with a trio of challenges common across the county, including reduced paid opportunities for critics, lack of a diverse critic corps, and a struggle to bring people back to the theatre since the COVID closure. The Rethinking Theater conference aims to shine a spotlight on those challenges and engage the theatre community in discussion and ideation looking toward the future.”

The conference will include panel discussions and workshops, with February 18 dedicated to virtual offerings, and in-person events centered February 25. Attendance is free, but advance registration is required for some sessions. 

Keynote speakers will include Diep Tran (Playbill), Soyica Colbert (Shakespeare Theatre), Molly Smith (Arena Stage), Peter Marks (Washington Post), Nicole Hertvik (DC Theater Arts), Reginald Douglas (Mosaic Theater), and Katherine Kendall (She Said).

For additional details, including the schedule of events, visit DayEight.org.