During a recent government meeting, Vanessa Marasco, the new executive director of the American Shakespeare Center (ASC), introduced herself and shared her vision for the organization, emphasizing its role as a community hub rather than just a theater. Marasco, who has been with ASC since January, highlighted her deep connection to the center's history, tracing its roots back to the Shenandoah Shakespeare Express.

Marasco outlined ASC's commitment to education and community engagement, noting that the center is not only a venue for performances but also a place for discovery and conversation. She emphasized the importance of accessibility, mentioning initiatives like the culture pass program, which allows residents of the Blue Ridge Mountains to access ASC productions for free through local libraries.

In her address, Marasco reported significant growth in audience engagement, with over 19,000 first-time visitors and a 45% increase in the Virginia patron base. She also noted that ASC welcomed over 7,600 students this year, a substantial increase from the 3,000 students who attended in 2022 after the pandemic.

Marasco stressed the importance of local partnerships, stating that ASC collaborates with various organizations and businesses in Stanton to enhance community involvement. She pointed out the need for better bus parking and ADA-compliant facilities to improve accessibility for school groups and patrons with disabilities.

Addressing the financial challenges faced by nonprofit theaters, Marasco highlighted the alarming trend of closures in the industry, urging community support to ensure ASC's sustainability. She called for greater awareness of ASC's nonprofit status, noting that many in the community mistakenly perceive it as a for-profit entity.

The meeting concluded with Marasco discussing upcoming productions, including \"Macbeth,\" \"Merry Wives of Windsor,\" and a new play titled \"Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors,\" while inviting community members to engage with the center's offerings.