TBA’s programs & activities:

Professional Development: Includes monthly webinars, roundtables, and the weekly Writers’ Room, in partnership with Z Space. TBA’s major convenings include 1. Annual General Auditions (connecting 200+ actors with 100+ producers and casting directors), 2. Annual TBA Conference (convening 200+ theatremakers for a full day of learning and community building).

Grants & Awards: Include the Hewlett Foundation-funded CA$H Grants program; the Rella Lossy and Glickman Awards for local playwrights; the Arts Leadership Residency Program; the RHE Artistic Fellowship; and the Mary Mason Lemonade Fund. Collectively, these programs will contribute over $175,000 to Bay Area theatremakers in FY26.

Audience Development: TBA helps theatre companies grow their audiences through initiatives like the Postcard Distribution Network, which distributes marketing collateral at 57 locations; Bay Area Theatre Week, which highlights the diverse offerings in our community with targeted discounts and community gatherings; the TheatreGoer e-newsletter delivering monthly show listings and special offers to 12,000 subscribers; and the TBA Highlights program which celebrates productions that meet objective criteria in alignment with our community’s values.

Research & New Initiatives: TBA explores innovative research initiatives and pilot programs that address challenges facing theatremakers. TBA’s Shared Services Project aims to increase administrative efficiency, reduce costs, and support the long-term sustainability of Bay Area theatre. Throughout 2025-26, TBA will pilot elements of the Shared Services program and continue sharing research results with our community so we can co-create impactful programs.

Arts Advocacy: TBA partners with groups like Arts for a Better Bay Area, Bay Area Arts Together, Californians for the Arts, and California Arts Advocates to effect policy change and secure increased arts funding. Recent successes: TBA supported AB280, which created a carve-out for nonprofits, and was involved in efforts related to SB478 and the implementation of the Performing Arts Equitable Payroll Fund.