The recent history and cultural importance of the Arkansas Repertory Theatre with Will Trice and Ruth Shepherd

Rex is joined by two key members of the Arkansas Repertory Theatre – commonly known as "The Rep" – on this week's episode of the podcast. Executive Director Will Trice and longtime board member Ruth Shepherd are on-hand to share their vast knowledge of regional theater and some of their more memorable experiences while working at "The Rep" in this episode. 

Will tells Rex about his upbringing as a young actor and how those experiences influenced his New York stage career as well as his eventual move back to his home state to serve in a leadership role for "The Rep." Will's decision to return to Central Arkansas to lead "The Rep" had much to do with the theater's failing business model in the late 2010s, which included production shutting down early in 2016-2017. 

Will's love and understanding of the art of theater combined with his business savvy and the opportunity to return to Arkansas greatly influenced his decision to play a key role in reviving "The Rep." Although he believes that "theater doesn't make sense as a business," both Will and Ruth found satisfaction in the possibility of revitalizing the standing of "The Rep" in the community and ensuring its standing as one of the state's foremost cultural landmarks. 

Will and Ruth maintain the belief that, for the "The Rep" to continue to thrive and maintain its professional standing in the community, a sustainable business model is needed as well as loyal patrons and regular contributors. 

Follow Rex Nelson's Southern Fried Podcast on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube, or visit arkansasonline.com/podcast23 for an exclusive subscription offer available only to podcast listeners.