EST/LA is committed to providing an inclusive environment for developing and producing new work by established and emerging theatre artists, providing a lifelong artistic and professional home to our membership. As storytellers, we are keenly aware that narratives (and who controls them) are powerful forces in shaping human perception and experience. We seek out stories that challenge the status quo, and dedicate ourselves to serving the often silenced members of both our surrounding communities and the artistic communities of Los Angeles.

Ensemble Studio Theatre – The L. A. Project began in 1979 as the west coast off-shoot of Ensemble Studio Theatre in New York. Formalized as a separate company in 2000, EST/LA’s membership includes over 200 accomplished diverse theater professionals, and our critically acclaimed works have been recognized with Backstage Garland awards, Stage Raw awards, LA Weekly Awards, Ovation Awards and Recommendations, a GLAAD Media Award, Los Angeles Drama Critics Award and other accolades. Currently in residence at Atwater Village Theater, the company has a strong portfolio of developmental programs, produces multiple projects every season and presents online digital programming for the wider audience.

Our core programming includes: Regularly scheduled writing groups throughout the year that include both established and marginalized voices; Storytelling events featuring artists from a wide array of lived experiences; Developmental festivals and workshops with audience discussion and participation; and seasonal productions of works fully developed by our company.

We are also a community partner of the University of Southern California, for which we work with the Warrior Bards Program supporting U.S. Veterans living with PTSD, and through our work with the Theatre Workers Project Artists we sponsor workshop programs for men who are transitioning from incarceration into society. All community-based programs include readings, performances, and online digital content. Member of the Artistic Directors of Color Alliance (ADCA).