Our Mission

In the pioneering spirit of its namesake, the Eugene O'Neill Theater Center discovers, develops, and empowers new work, new voices, and creative risk-taking. By introducing innovative artists, essential to broadening the national cultural landscape, the O'Neill serves as the Launchpad of the American Theater.

​Our Values

DISCOVERY: We commit to the discovery of new and daring voices, vital to the future of American theater, through rigorous and direct outreach in our open submission process, and the curation of our artistic programs.

DIVERSITY: Our community strives to honor the experiences, abilities, heritage, and expression of all artists, faculty, students, and staff. Within our artistry and administration, we pledge to empower a full range of individual identities.

COLLABORATION: We endeavor to provide time and space for artistic collisions, bold risk-taking, and deep reflection by all of our artists.

RISK. FAIL. RISK AGAIN: These words ring out from every rehearsal room, performance space, classroom, office, and individual on the O'Neill's campus. We encourage artistic impulse and exploration of the exchange between art and audience.

EDUCATION: To be in the theater is to be a student for life. Whether one comes to the O'Neill early or the midst of their career, we work to offer a radically accepting space of mentorship, collaboration, and camaraderie.

COMMUNITY: The O'Neill's legacy and artistry relies upon its engagement with the robust and vibrant local audiences. We create spaces and programming in support of one another, the Waterford community, and the American theater.