Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati
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A free conversation series with local scholars and community members that explores our productions’ themes and contexts.

Theatre as community.
ETC Essentials is a free community conversation series that dives deeper into the context and themes of our main stage productions. Each event brings together local organizers, experts, and scholars to spark dialogue and create connections that extend beyond the stage.
Upcoming events

Next to Normal
Sun, Sep 28 at 1:00 pm
Family relationships are rarely simple—and when grief or mental health challenges are part of the picture, they can become even more complex. Join us for a thoughtful, down-to-earth conversation as a panel of experts shares real-life insights and connects the emotional journey in Next to Normal to the struggles many families face every day.

Where We Stand
Sun, Feb 15 at 1:00 pm
How does storytelling empower us to raise our voices within our communities? Join us for an intimate conversation about the joys and challenges of living alongside others, and the impact of the choices we make. Together, we’ll explore how stories reveal truth, nurture healing, and hold communities accountable, while reminding us of their power to keep us connected.

Fourteen Funerals
Sun, Mar 29 at 1:00 pm
Though grief and laughter may seem like unlikely companions, humor has long been a powerful way to navigate pain, process loss, and reconnect with life after tragedy. Together, we’ll reflect on how comedy can offer emotional release, build resilience, create space for vulnerability, and foster connection.

The House on Watch Hill
Sun, May 24 at 1:00 pm
Shadows, whispers, and things that go bump in the night—why are we so drawn to the unknown? From haunted houses to ghost stories, fascination with the paranormal transcends culture and time, holding a powerful grip on our imaginations. This panel brings together experts to unravel why mysteries that defy explanation continue to spark our curiosity and feed our enduring obsession with the unseen.

Volunteer
We rely on hundreds of enthusiastic volunteers each season to make our shows and engagement programs possible.
Photo credits | Ticket Discounts, Nick Cearley in Buyer and Cellar (Ryan Kurtz); Volunteer, Pamela Myers, Justin McCombs, Carter Bratton, & Dale Hodges in Ripcord (Ryan Kurtz); Gift Vouchers, Sara Mackie, Denise Devlin, Brooke Steele, & Mia Gentile in Winter Wonderettes.