South Coast Repertory theater production, celebrating community and diverse storytelling.
South Coast Repertory faced a $20,000 funding loss from the NEA on opening day of ‘The Staircase’ due to a shift in grant priorities. Fortunately, OneRoot Foundation stepped in to provide vital support. This development highlights the challenges of arts funding amidst changing federal policies.
Newport Beach, CA — South Coast Repertory (SCR) faced a significant financial setback on the opening day of its production “The Staircase,” losing $20,000 in promised funding from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). This funding was intended to support the production’s skilled technicians as part of its final show of the 2024-25 season. The withdrawal of funding was triggered by a shift in the NEA’s grant-making priorities that reflect policies favored by the Trump administration.
SCR officials received notification of the funding withdrawal on May 2, although the grant had originally been awarded in November of the previous year. The NEA’s new funding criteria prioritize projects aimed at historically Black colleges and universities and Hispanic-serving institutions, sidelining many existing initiatives.
Suzanne Appel, SCR’s Managing Director, described the funding loss as a “meaningful amount of money” crucial for their production. Following the sudden announcement, SCR was surprised and relieved when the OneRoot Foundation, founded by the Pyle family from Newport Beach, stepped in to provide support by replacing the lost grant money.
OneRoot Foundation’s involvement was commended by Artistic Director David Ivers, who characterized the organization’s support as “incredibly generous and life-affirming.” Established in 2021, the OneRoot Foundation engages in grant-making and volunteer work, driven by a commitment to support the community and various causes.
The donation from OneRoot Foundation was made in honor of actor Denver Pyle, father of David Pyle, who enjoyed a notable career in both film and television. Robert May, the executive director responsible for overseeing the foundation’s efforts, expressed disappointment over the NEA’s abrupt withdrawal but emphasized their desire to ensure that “The Staircase” continued to receive funding.
The support from OneRoot allowed SCR to employ a total of 53 full- and part-time technicians, union actors, stage managers, and creative staff needed for the production. SCR has also appealed to the NEA for the reinstatement of the withdrawn funding, asserting that “The Staircase” aligns with the new administration’s funding aims that support skilled laborers and Tribal communities.
“The Staircase,” written by native Hawaiian playwright Noa Gardner, examines the relationship between a Hawaiian family and the mainland U.S., engaging with cultural themes that celebrate Hawaiian identity. The production features three native Hawaiian actors and is led by native Hawaiian music director Mehanaoakala Hind.
Ivers has stressed the importance of presenting this world-premiere play, arguing that ignoring such narratives would be “as un-American as you can get.” As of now, SCR is still awaiting a decision from the NEA regarding their appeal to reinstate the funding that was lost.
The developments surrounding “The Staircase” reflect broader discussions about arts funding and its implications for cultural storytelling, emphasizing the importance of community support in the face of shifting priorities in federal grant programs.
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