With support from the California Arts Council, EMPIRE ARTS COLLECTIVE will support the third year of Experimental Quickies, a co-produced queer and trans short play festival featuring original works written, directed, designed, and performed by trans and queer artists in the Sacramento region. Building on a successful 2025 festival with sold out performances and an expanded 2026 production currently in development, the 2027 project will invite artists to create short works exploring trans history, historical erasure, community memory, and contemporary queer and trans experience. CAC funds would support artist compensation, production expenses, and reduced-cost audience access while expanding equitable access to artistic leadership and participation. The project will culminate in at least four public performances at Spectrum Stage showcasing new queer and trans-led performance work created by local artists.
Mainstage
Our primary program for developing performing artists through full-scale productions. Mainstage projects bring together performers, directors, designers, and crew in a structured, collaborative process that builds skill, expands range, and deepens artistic voice. Each project culminates in a public run, but the focus is on the growth of the artists involved and the stories they are equipped to tell, with an emphasis on LGBTQ+, QTBIPOC, disabled, and neurodivergent perspectives.
Education
Classes, workshops, and hands-on training for designers and technical artists, including lighting, scenic design, costumes, makeup, stage combat, and special effects. Education programs are built to expand access, build practical skills, and support artists at different stages of experience.
Original Works
Artist-driven projects focused on the creation and development of new, original material. This program supports playwrights, directors, and interdisciplinary artists in building work outside traditional production structures, with space to experiment, collaborate, and refine ideas. Projects may take many forms, from devised theatre and solo work to cross-disciplinary performances and one-off presentations.
Community Events
Low-pressure gatherings that keep artists connected between productions and training programs. These events create space for relationship-building, creative exchange, and community support without the demands of a formal production process.