WITH LOVE & GRATITUDE TO THOSE WHO GIVE

The Impact of Your Generosity

How your generosity to the

bringshope, joy, understanding & more

to children and adults in need.

THE DIFFERENCE YOU MADE TO

CHILDREN

through your support of the

Geffen Playhouse Story Pirates

Residency Program

The opportunity to work year-round in their classrooms with highly inspiring and gifted teachingartists (Geffen Playhouse Story Pirates) who ignite their language arts skills and creativity byteaching writing and story-telling concepts through theater.

The opportunity to feel successful as writers, often for the first time in their lives.

The opportunity to see their stories come alive on stage through performances by the Story Pirates(who steal their stories and act them out in front of the whole school, either at their school or atthe Geffen).

The opportunity to see themselves as creative, entertaining, and capable contributors of ideas, stories, and more.

The opportunity to develop a life-long foundation for and appreciation of writing, the arts, creativity, and more.

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CHILDREN IN LOS ANGELES’ MOST DISADvANTAGED AND

UNDER-RESOURCED SCHOOLS GAINED THIS:

At the start of the year, it was painful to read most of the students’ writtenwork. After years of test prep with a lack of emphasis on writing, many students lacked the skills necessary to

communicate effectively in writing.

By the end of the school year, the students had gone through a completetransformation. The Geffen Playhouse Story Pirates had managed to both motivate students and provide the

effective instructions necessary to greatly improve their writing.

My students have been running wild ever since, making all kinds of progressand gains with their writing.

What your donors provide to our school and community is priceless!

IMPACT OF YOUR GENEROSITY ON CHILDREN

AS IDENTIFIED BY THEIR TEACHERS:

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During the first part of the year, James had many difficulties in class. His report card was filled primarily with “2’s”.

His attitude and work habits improved tremendously after partcipating in the Geffen

Playhouse Story Pirates Program writing workshops. When the Story Pirates performed his story infront of the school, he sat in the audience literally glowing! The audience was entranced by the

performance of his story. What a terrific way to celebrate and encourage writing and to jump-start a child’s success!

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James learns that the story he wrote was selected by the Geffen Playhouse Story Pirates to be performed in

front of the whole school.

James lifts his head to watch his story come to life.

Professional actors (AKA Story Pirates) delight the whole audience with James’ story.

James celebrates with his teacher and his classmates an experience he will never forget.

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The Geffen Playhouse’s Story Pirates start off with giving the children ‘permission to be weird’ and with ‘every idea is a good idea.’ Those two things are really empowering for the

students. It makes them a lot less intimidated about writing.

For a lot of kids, writing is something they do not want to do at all. But when the Geffen Playhouse Story Pirates come, they WANT to do it.They LOOK FORWARD to doing it!

The students gained immensely from the work the Story Pirates did with them in the

classroom.

IMPACT OF YOUR GENEROSITY ON CHILDREN

AS IDENTIFIED BY THEIR TEACHERS:

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Our students are now completely inspired by the joy and excitement of writing and live theater. “

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Can you find one child who is not full of joy

in this picture?

The Geffen’s work with our students has given them permission to feel free and to

think outside the box.

Students now see themselves as thinkers, writers, and creators.

What a priceless gift your donors have given these children.

IMPACT OF YOUR GENEROSITY ON CHILDREN

AS IDENTIFIED BY THEIR TEACHERS:

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The Geffen Playhouse Story Pirates Residency Program is transcending grade levels,creating connectedness, and teaching students to be analytical thinkers.

Your program aligns beautifully with the new Common Core Standards. Thank you for the

amazing work you do.

Our students found writing to be enjoyable and less of a chore! What they learned from

the Geffen’s Story Pirates stayed with them through the whole year.

My class had perfect attendance when they knew the Story Pirates were coming.

This program really improves attendance and motivation!

IMPACT OF YOUR GENEROSITY ON CHILDREN

AS IDENTIFIED BY THEIR TEACHERS:

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You gave us our favorite part of school this year!

We loved the way they taught us. They made

writing fun.

I will remember the Story Pirates forever.

The Story Pirates’ assignments are the best

we’ve ever done in school.

Thank you for sending the Story Pirates to our

school. We learned so many things that help us

with our writing.

WHAT THE STUDENTS WOULD

LIKE YOU TO KNOW:

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This program has made a strong and forever lasting impact on me as ateacher. I have learned many new ways to help my students with writing and with creativity.

I am very grateful for all of the exciting skills the Geffen Playhouse Story Pirates have taught me.

This program brought me out of my shell. I’ve been more animated as a teacher and

still get things done! Students have come out of their shells, too.

The way this program gives the students an experience of writing as fun and within their reach is

brilliant.

The unwavering enthusiasm these artists use throughout their lessons is something very

valuable I’ve learned from them.

IMPACT OF YOUR GENEROSITY ON THE TEACHERS:

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The Story Pirates havebrought joy to so many children.

Thank you for providing

such an unforgettable and

meaningful educational

and artistic experience for

our children.

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Dear Geffen Playhouse Board and Donors,

This past year thanks to you, we had the Geffen Playhouse Story Pirates Residency

Program at our school working with all three of our third-grade classes.

I cannot begin to tell you how impressed I was with this program and with the individuals who were assigned to work with our students.

This was an exciting opportunity for our students and teachers. The students became

very motivated about writing. Observing their faces throughout the yearwhen the Story Pirates came was priceless.

I cannot thank you enough for this wonderful, incredible program.

Patrizia Puccio, Principal

Pinewood Elementary School, Tujunga

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IMPACT OF YOUR GENEROSITY ON CHILDREN AS IDENTIFIED BY

THEIR PARENTS:

100% of parents reported that their children benefited from having the Geffen Playhouse

Story Pirates Residency Program in their child’s classroom.

87.5% of the parents reported that their child is now more interested in writing because of

the program.

79% of the parents stated that the program helped their child become more interested in

school overall.

100% of the parents who attended the Story Pirates’ Child-Parent Workshops stated they

would recommend them to other parents.

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On behalf of every child who gained

the opportunity to be in this program

and achieve new levels of success

and life-changing skills as writers,

creative thinkers, and participants in

the arts because of your generosity,

our profound gratitude to you.

1,450 children at 5 Title 1 Elementary

Schools in LA County (where 75% or

more of the students are from families

living at or below poverty)

participated in the Geffen Playhouse

Story Pirates Program this past year

because of people like you who cared

about their success and futures.

THE DIFFERENCE YOUR GENEROSITY

MADE TO

youth

YOUTH IN LOS ANGELES’ MOST DISADvANTAGED COMMUNITIES AND

UNDER-RESOURCED PUBLIC HIGH SCHOOLS GAINED THIS:THROUGH YOUR SUPPORT OF OUR

HIGH SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS

PROGRAMImmersive, one-of-a-kind learning and life experiences with artists and live theater,

through programming built around a whole season of Geffen plays, developed and delivered

in collaboration with educators, master teaching artists, and arts-integration experts.

89% of the students felt the plays would have a long-term impact on them.

81% of the youth felt significantly inspired after seeing a play at the Geffen.

80% of the youth felt that seeing a play at the Geffen opened their eyes to a new idea or

point of view that they hadn’t considered.

72% felt motivated to take action or make a change after seeing a play at the Geffen.

69% felt that the performance caused them to reflect on their own opinions and beliefs.

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The play was astonishing and inspiring.

After seeing this play, I felt stronger and more independent!

Impact on youth of seeing RAPTURE, BLISTER,BURN:

This was the first play I have

ever seen. The experience was

beautiful. I loved the play. I

loved watching live actors. The

play was funny but it also had

a serious lesson in it.

The whole experience

really inspired me!

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I loved how they made a toast at the end and said that broken hearts will heal over time

and that made me feel that women don’t need to hurt themselves by being with someone.

This was the best thing I have ever seen.

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Impact on youth of seeing THE PIANIST OF WILLESDEN LANE:

Seeing this play inspired me in many ways. Now I know never to give up on my dreams.

Now I know that whoever raises us are heroes. I even went home and told my mother and

she was fascinated. This performance taught me to never give up and lose hope.

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Mona's playing was beautiful and steady, sound effects were in perfect timing, and the overallstory was a complete inspiration.

The way that she described everything really captivated my attention and made me wantto be more driven and passionate about the things that I do in life.

I felt enlightened on something I knew nothing about, the Kindertransport.

I now want to write down the story of my parents and my own story to pass it

down through family generations.

I was truly honored to experience this as my first live play. The experience was

incredible. I will never forget it.

WHAT THE STUDENTS WOULD LIKE YOU TO KNOW:

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It has been a privilege to participate in the telling of Lisa Jura's dramatic

true story, chronicled in THE CHILDREN OF WILLESDEN LANE and the play,

THE PIANIST OF WILLESDEN LANE. What has been doubly rewarding is

taking this story to so many young people, like those that came to see it

at the Geffen. What a fabulous program through the Geffen Playhouse

— bringing theatrical productions to so many young students and

engaging and building future audiences.

We were particularly moved by the students who attended the performance. The positive reactions, the

thoughtful questions, and the conversations we had with students and

teachers that day make us think of the close, personal bond that has

been formed between the 10,000 children and teenagers rescued all

those years ago by the Kindertransport and our children, our students of

today. Sometimes understanding history is a small step. My co-author,

Lee Cohen, and I are proud that our work can be such a bridge.

—Mona Golabek

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Annette Bening was very wonderful. I was grateful to be able to visit the Geffen Playhouse and to have

‘Ruth Draper's Monologues’ as my first live play.

I was so impressed with Ms. Bening's performance on stage. She's a great actress. She made characters

who weren't really onstage come to life. While she performed, I imagined peopleall around her. I also imagined what the other characters would look and sound like.

The Talk Back at the end of the show really inspired me. The advice Ms. Bening gave usstudents had a big impact on me. To do something you would never picture yourself

doing is worth trying — whether you succeed or not.

IMPACT ON YOUTH OF SEEING RUTH DRAPER’S MONOLOGUES:

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I was amazed and in awe, feeling inspired and wanting more.

I'm an aspiring writer. I write short stories, poems and novels. The show really inspired me because

now I feel more empowered to go through with what I love and to work on

my art (writing), and hopefully get others to see my writing too.

I like how we learned some background about Ruth Draper and how she started a career that nobody else

thought was possible. This inspired me to make sure I never give up, even whenwhat I'm doing is not liked or approved of by others.

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IMPACT ON YOUTH OF SEEING RUTH DRAPER’S MONOLOGUES:

IMPACT OF YOUR GENEROSITY ON THE YOUTH

AS IDENTIFIED BY THEIR TEACHERS:

This program is a life-changing experience for these students. Most of them have never at-

tended a professional production. This is an excellent program and so valuable to my students.

How do I know this impacted them? Many times throughout the year, students brought upthe plays in class discussions. They remembered the content and how they felt when they saw them.

One student who is completely not interested in academics and had never seen a live play had a strong emo-

tional response and said that he would like to see more. It awakened a lot in him.

My students had a hugely positive response to the performances they saw at the Geffen.

They felt a lot more confident about expressing themselves after working with GeffenTeaching Artists in our classrooms (before and after seeing a play). This whole experience has really

opened their minds.

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IMPACT OF YOUR GENEROSITY ON THE TEACHERS:

The Geffen Teaching Artists and this program have definitely helped me to step up mygame as a teacher.

This program reinforces curriculum and inspires the students to continue to work hard.

This program has a huge impact. It allows me to use examples of what we see at the Geffen to

illustrate lessons that I am teaching.

It is always interesting and instructive to see other educators (Geffen TeachingArtists) work with your students. It gives you the opportunity to observe and to reflect on

your own teaching practices.

All around very inspiring for our staff and students!

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I just want to personally thank you for the amazing experiences our students participated in

through your High School Partnerships Program and the workshops your teaching artists provided

before and after each Geffen show. Our teachers cannot stop talking about the level of profession-

alism, artistic analysis, and support they feel from the Geffen and how much the students are

experiencing through our partnership. It is easy to see how this program has deeplyhelped light a fire in the students’ learning. Thank you for these wonderful

opportunities for our students and for this extraordinary partnership.

Bruce Bivins

Principal, Roosevelt High School

WITH GRATITUDE FROM A PRINCIPAL WHO SAW HOW MUCH YOUR

GENEROSITY BROUGHT TO HIS TEACHERS AND STUDENTS:

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STUDENTS & SCHOOLS SERvED THROUGH YOUR SUPPORT

OF OUR HIGH SCHOOL PARTNERSHIPS PROGRAM:

Jordan High School, Watts • Mendez High School, Boyle Heights • Roosevelt High School, Boyle Heights •

Santee Education Complex, South Los Angeles • Westchester Enriched Sciences Magnet, Westchester

THE DIFFERENCE YOUR GENEROSITY MADE

TO THE youthSERVED THROUGH OUR LITERACY PROJECT AT MENDEZ HIGH SCHOOL

Thanks to your support,

10th graders living in an area of Los Angeles

where more than 50% of their peers

drop out of high school

where less than 5% of the adults have a college degree

and where over 60% of the adults have less than a high school degree

gained access to a year-long injection of

the arts and state-of-the-art critical thinking & writing challenges

that have put them on a whole new path in life.

Actively participated in discussions about plays.

Responded to questions asking them to offer their ownopinions and/or to provide evidence from a play to supporttheir opinions.

Actively participated in meaningful and reflective discussions with their peers.

Had the ability to concentrate and focus significantly better.

Had new insights about themselves and their abilities.

Students wrote essays that were thoughtful and coherent.

The details, depth and complexity of their writing increased significantly.

Now feel the Geffen (and the arts) are resources that they and their families have in their lives.

Gave few or no responses when asked a question.

Had zero to little confidence in their own thoughts about a play.

Weren’t willing to express their own thoughtsabout a play in front of the whole class.

Had very little ability to focus in the classroom.

Didn’t think they had the capacity to ever learnhow to write.

Student writing was disorganized.

Student writing was simplistic.

Didn’t think they belonged at the Geffen Playhouse.

CIn September: By the end of the year:

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I know I was a train wreck at the start of this. My writing skills were horrible.

But with this program, and the patience and knowledge you brought me, I learned a lot.

Not only have I learned how to write, but my eyes were opened to live theater. I always thought it was

cheesy and boring but now after experiencing it, I am motivated to see a lot more.

And I hope this program stays at our school so that the upcoming 10th graders experience

these great new things. I want their eyes to be opened up too so that they know that

there is much more to the world and to life.

Martin

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“WHAT THE STUDENTS WANT YOU TO KNOW:

I love this program! It has helped me in many ways.

In the beginning of the year I disliked writing a lot. The plays and learning

how to write through them and through the teaching artists and writing coaches have

opened my eyes to a whole new perspective.

This program has given me a tremendous amount ofconfidence.

Adriana

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This program helps us in ways that are hard to describe. It opens our minds.It shows us that anything is possible with a little help!

Without the people who give to make this program possible, I would not have experienced anyplays. I would not have explored all of the new ideas.

We all appreciate the help and experiences we received from you all. I know I will be moresuccessful in life because of this program.

Ashley

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Before the Geffen came here, I hated writing and reading. But this program made a big

difference. I now see the beautiful thing about writing. I learned how we can do so

much with writing. I now write and read a lot better.

Years from now, we will all remember that this is when welearned how to write.

We will remember how your generosity made a difference.

Wendy “

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You would be amazed at how much this program has benefitted us.

Our teachers, family, friends – they’ve all noticed that we use words in our daily conversations that we

never did before. Our confidence has improved. We don’t just sit and watch anymore.We actually get up and ask to be involved.

I can see how it has helped my fellow classmates. I remember at the beginning of the year the majority

of us would get stuck and not know even how to begin to write an essay. We are now able to write

much more fluently and independently.

The plays left me almost speechless each time. I loved seeing the plays. I loved working with the teach-

ing artists. I loved the writing. Thank you for all of the help you have given us.

Itzel

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You are giving students the opportunity to BE someone, to MAKE something with their life.

This program has inspired many students to search for whatand who they want to be in life.

THANK YOU.

Ruby

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WITH YOUR SUPPORT, WE ARE CREATING COLLECTIvE IMPACT

THROUGH A TEAM OF PARTNERS, PERSPECTIvES & DISCIPLINES:

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Geffen Playhouse led by Jennifer Zakkai, Director of Education & Community Outreach (3rd from right) and her team:

Kristen Smith Eshaya (far right); Teaching Artists (l-r) Corky Dominguez, Jesse Bliss, Denise Iketani and Kristina Leach (not pictured),

and Jessica Brusilow Rollins, Director of Education Partnerships (not pictured). Also critical to the project are the artists associated

with each Geffen production that the students see, study and respond to through their writing and classroom work.

Partnership for Los Angeles Schools led by Joan Sullivan, CEO (not pictured), Ameer Kim El-Mallawany, Director of

Family and Community Engagement, and Claudia Martinez, Manager of Family and Community Engagement (not pictured).

Mendez High School led by Mauro Bautista, Principal (center) and his team: Assistant Principals Alejandro Macias and

Fred Simmons (not pictured) and 10th Grade Teachers Peter Olson and Emily Grijalva.

UCLA Graduate School of Education, Center X led by Shervaughnna Anderson-Demiraz, Director of the

California Reading and Literature Project (not pictured) and her team of UCLA Teacher Leaders & Writing Coaches: (l-r) Johnetta

Fleming (center), Negretta Freeman, Resa Nikol, Lois Clark and Spencer Robins (not pictured).

Vital Research led by Dr. Harold Urman, Partner, and Andrea Nee, Senior Research Associate.

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The Geffen Playhouse answered our call for help. The organization worked with us to

develop a year-long runway of theater experiences and classroom work with teaching artists and literacy

experts from UCLA to gradually build our students’ comfort and success with writing and critical thinking —

skills that will jet propel them for life.

My deepest gratitude to all of the donors to the Geffen who made this outstanding program possible for our students. We have to share

this model and get it out to more schools and students across Los Angeles.

Mauro BautistaPrincipal, Mendez High School

WHAT THE PRINCIPAL WOULD LIKE YOU TO KNOW:

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I am a strong believer that the arts can add a whole layer of literacy development — one that is often lacking due

to budget cuts an emphasis on standardized testing. The Geffen Project brought so muchmore than a theatrical piece for students to analyze. The plays introduced

complex themes that led to rich discussions. In the essay writing that followed, all students wanted to reference the

play as it had been so impactful and timely. But the Geffen Project also brings community building. Teaching artists

transformed my room into a safe space where we could play, laugh, and share. Students were eager to learn about

the different components that go into creating a production. Even shy students participated in creating frozen

scenes and running to form a ‘house’ in theater games. After the play, the teaching artists helped lead meaningful

discussions about the issues of the play and the importance of connection. Connection — that is exactly what the

Geffen Project encourages — connection between theater and school; connection between the stage and the

written word; connection between artists and students; connection between teachers and students; and lastly,

connection amongst the students themselves. Relationships like these inspire studentsto be active learners and participants in school. These lead toimproved academic scores and attending higher education as theyare eager to experience more.

Emily Grijalva

Mendez High School Teacher

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“WHAT THE TEACHERS WANT YOU TO KNOW:

What makes the program unique is the connection between the writing process and the experience

of live theater. The collective experience of seeing the plays at the Geffen and returning to school to

reflect, discuss — and even act —creates a context and purpose for writing.

The small group component of the writing workshops allows me to connect moremeaningfully with my students than would otherwise be possible,and be more focused and thoughtful in the way I provide feedbackand support.

I love seeing students become more expressive and take more risks during the workshops led by the

teaching artists. I have had several students who started the year quiet and reserved, then caught

the acting bug through these workshops and ultimately signed up for classes at our local Casa 0101

Theater. The role of the Geffen Playhouse in connecting teachers and students with arts resources

and institutions in our own neighborhood has been another important aspect of the program.

Peter Olson

Mendez High School Teacher

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This has been an extraordinary year for our students at Mendez High School. Principal Bautista cannot stop raving about

the positive changes he and his team have seen in their 10th grade students who participated in the Geffen Playhouse

Literacy Project. In addition to the significant gains students have made on the writing section of the California High

School Exit Exam, what is perhaps even more critical is the dramatic change in students' confidence and belief in

themselves. Students who couldn’t write more than a few sentences at the beginning of the school year now see

themselves as writers and are confident sharing their thoughts and writing multiple pages by the end of the year.

Our partners at the Geffen have created a one-of-a-kind program, infusing theater and literacy to help these students

learn, grow andelevate their expectations of what they are capable of achieving. It’s hard to imagine the Mendez

campus three years ago, before this partnership with the Geffen Playhouse had materialized. The Geffen’s team of master

Teaching Artists, expert staff and Literacy Coaches from UCLA’s Center X has become fully integrated into the culture of

the school. This kind of intensive collaboration with the leadership and educators at Mendez is a model partnership for

our other high schools throughout Los Angeles. A tremendous thank you to the Geffen ‘sBoard and donors for making a major investment in our students andfor helping us transform the schools in our city that need it most.

Joan Sullivan, CEO

Partnership for Los Angeles Schools

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“WHAT OUR PARTNERSWANT YOU TO KNOW:

We are proud to be partnering with the Geffen Playhouse in developing and implementing “The Mendez Project.”

We are a community of educators working to transform public schooling to create a more just, equitable, and

humane society. Our mission— to dramatically change schooling for the most underserved students of Los Angeles — is aligned perfectly with the Geffen’s belief that theater can be used as a tool for accelerating the learningand achievement of Los Angeles’ most economically and educationally disadvantaged youth. I have worked closely with the Geffen for over two years now to help develop the

writing curriculum, as well as three summer institutes to provide professional development for the teachers and

teaching artists engaged in the Mendez Project. It is inspiring to see how the Geffen has collaborated so successfully

with education experts and has used a full season of plays to weave theater arts and literacy together in such an

innovative way. I’ve never seen an arts education program like this before, nor have I seen a professional theater that is

as committed to literacy as the Geffen Playhouse.

Shervaughnna Anderson-Demiraz

Director, California Reading and Literature Project

UCLA Graduate School of Education, Center X

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“FROM OUR PARTNERS AT UCLA:

My driving passion is creating avenues of success for both students and teachers, no matter the

challenge. Successful students and successful teachers are inextricably bound. But teachers need support. Teaching can be a lonely and frightening

experience without support. I relish the chance to create innovative ways tomotivate and engage students and teachers. I refuse to bedaunted by the challenges.

Helping the children at Mendez has confirmed the truth contained in the words of author, James

Agee: ‘In every child who is born, under no matter what circumstances, of no matter what parents,

the potentiality of the human race is born again.’

Johnetta Fleming, Retired Teacher

Teacher Leader, UCLA Graduate School of Education, Center X

California Reading & Literature Project

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2014 marks a marvelous third-year journey for me to work as a Teacher Leader with an outstanding cadre of

students and educators in the Geffen Playhouse Literacy Project at Mendez High School. As I reflect on my

interactions and experiences with the students, I am overcome by the tremendous opportunities this Project creates for students to develop and extend their understanding of theater and later use this knowledge as a catalyst to critically analyze and respond to classroom writing assignments. As part of these activities, the students begin to look

back at their own work and reflect on both the choices they had made as writers and the effect of those choices

on the pieces written. As a literacy consultant, I have the wonderful opportunity of being part of a significant

experience: Listener, not leader, confidante, not critic. This is one of those opportunities I’d like to savor and

hang on to. These remarkable opportunities will inspire, sharpen, andshape the lives of students well beyond the classroom.

Lois Clark, Teacher Leader,

UCLA’s Graduate School of Education, Center X

California Reading & Literature Project

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The Geffen Playhouse Literacy Project is a wonderful program that empowers students to become better writ-

ers, readers, and critical thinkers. As a literacy coach, it is very inspiring to engage with students as they jour-

ney through the process of writing, revising, editing, and publishing their essays. It is extremelyrewarding to watch a student grow in their capacity to recognizestrengths and challenges in their writing. In carefully designed lessons and

collaborative opportunities with peers, they ardently set out to produce essays that showcase their abilities to

accurately address prompts that span all genres.

Negretta Freeman

UCLA Writing Coach

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Students are able to make big jumps in their writing ability because they have the extra support of writing

coaches to respond to their individual writing. Coaches and English teachers are able to coax students’

thinking by asking guiding questions and offering areas of strength and challenge. This kind oflearning environment is invaluable. It creates a safe place for students to express

themselves and get immediate feedback during writer’s workshops.

I’ve seen students broaden their understanding while sharing with a partner, in a small group, and in writing.

Coaches ask specific questions that stretch students’ thinking about how to connect ideas and provide evi-

dence to make their positions clear. The result is students develop more complexthinking and gain confidence in their writing. Students becomeinvested in sharing their point of view and see that their ideashave value.

Resa Nikol

UCLA Writing Coach

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It all begins when the teaching artists come together to discuss the plays and the strategies for what we will

be teaching in the classroom. I love working with my colleagues. We discuss the play, go over the play’s

educational study guide and attend the production. All of this is taken into account as we plan the objectives,

the areas we want to focus on, and the activities the students will engage in. This preparation process is key to

supporting the theater-going experience for the students. The best part for me is the students’ reaction to

what they saw. I see and hear it in their eyes, face, gestures and the tone in their voices. The powerand strength of the program is also evident when the studentsbegin to articulate in speaking and writing their observations,opinions, and feelings. Being part of a team of professional theater teaching artists, and a

theater director myself, I am simply thrilled to be doing this work with the Geffen Playhouse!

Corky Dominguez,

Teaching Artist

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“WHAT OUR TEACHING ARTISTS WANT YOU TO KNOW:

Many people say that empathy can't be taught. You either have it or you don't. I disagree with that.

Theater is the most effective way to teach empathy. It allows students to explore other roles and

perspectives in a safe environment. During one post-show discussion this past year, numerous students

saw themselves in the bully role. They realized at times, even when they may have been joking, that

they had hurt people with their words and actions.

The opportunity for the students to see and learn about somethingdifferent from their everyday routine is life-changing. They see opportunities

and choices that they may not have realized existed. Opportunities and choices that they might want to

pursue. We talked about the MacArthur Fellowship that Tarell McCraney was awarded. They had no idea

that you could be awarded a grant to continue pursuing something that you loved doing like writing.

Just that knowledge alone is enough to plant a seed in a student’smind of ‘Hey, maybe I could . . . ‘

Denise Iketani

Teaching Artist

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This project opens participants up to their humanity, a strong sense of empathy, and a dramatically increased

understanding of themselves, community, and the world. The lens of theater allows them a transformative

experience. Students often come to the program shy and uneasy to participate or share their voice. After the

workshops with teaching artists, literacy coaching sessions, and the experience of seeing the Geffen’s amazing

plays, students are forever changed . They participate in the workshops with and excitement, thrilled to be in an environment that cultivatestheir highest creativity. They develop the skills to share their thoughts and feelings

— their voice — and it feels extraordinary. They grow a passion for criticalthinking, sharing, and storytelling, becoming self-motivatedlearners with the skills to work collaboratively.

Jesse Bliss

Teaching Artist

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“

Education and outreach at the Geffen are all about having a powerful impact on those we serve. By attending

plays, young people enter the “worlds” created by renowned and emerging playwrights, which are expertly

rendered by directors and designers and brought to life by dynamic actors. Teaching artists help them deepen

their knowledge of how theater is created and presented as well as the key themes and topics of each play.

Through all of these experiences, they encounter provocativeideas and complex situations that can expand and renew theirthinking and inform their lives.

Wherever possible, we seek to help program participants ‘raise their voices’ by enhancing their skills as speak-

ers and writers. Learning experiences range from conducting discussions in which they share their responses to

the plays, to providing individualized support to high school students as they write essays centered on themes

from the plays, to engaging children and community group members in writing activities that connect them to

the power of telling their own stories.

Jennifer Zakkai, Director of Education & Community Outreach

Geffen Playhouse

“

“FROM THE GEFFEN’S DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION &COMMUNITY OUTREACH:

THE DIFFERENCE YOUR GENEROSITY

MADE TO

adults

On behalf of every young person who gained the opportunity to be in this

program and achieve new levels of success and life-changing skills as writers,

critical thinkers, and participants in the arts because of your generosity,

our profound gratitude

Young adults, Adults, and senior citizens gained this:

We believe that all people of all ages are entitled to experience the arts, to engage their imaginative powers, and to learn

through the arts. We also realize that thousands in our community are completely left out of art experiences, not only

because they cannot afford them but also because they are not aware of how to access them or even what is available.

We developed LIGHTS UP to address this gap in access to the arts and the unmet need for arts programs that serve adults,

not just youth. But instead of simply opening our doors and offering free theater tickets on a first-come, first-served

basis, we directed our outreach through L.A. social service organizations that serve disadvantaged and socially isolated

young adults, adults and senior citizens. This past season, 44 nonprofits partnered with us to send group leaders to

support the participation of constituents who have the least access to the arts and who could benefit the most from such

immersive, year-round opportunities to see plays, receive and read our Study Guides, attend workshops with our

teaching artists, and meet and interact with Geffen playwrights, directors, designers and more.

Target Audience: The most underserved and disadvantaged adult populations of Los Angeles County including:

• Veterans who are recovering from PTSD and other major physical and emotional challenges as a result of their service,

• Seniors who are socially isolated and economically disadvantaged,

• Young adults who have recently transitioned out of foster care and who are without a support system,

• Adults who are transitioning out of homelessness,

• Adults who are challenged by serious health or physical issues, including those living with HIV/AIDS and those who

are recent amputees.

Through your support of our Lights Up Program

We are a nonprofit serving amputees in the Los Angeles area.

People come to us for support when they are in a very dark time

in their lives.

Having the ability to give newly-injured people the opportunity

to know that they have been invited to the Geffen Playhouse to attend the play and

that the theater wants their feedback is very empowering to them.

I cannot tell you how much having this opportunity means to our community.

Katy Sullivan, Board Member

Mutual Amputee Aid Foundation

I attended WAIT UNTIL DARK without knowing

much about the play, other than it was a thriller.

I did not know that the lead actress was

portraying a woman with a disability, just like

me. Not only was the acting beautiful, it was

such a personally inspiring and motivating show

for me. The way she took her ‘disability’ and

turned it into an advantage to overcome the

men who were after her was just AMAZING!

I walked out of the theater so empowered!

I just want to say thank you for producing shows

that accurately portray disability. And for

having programs like LIGHTS UP so that

the people of our community can benefit from

seeing them.

Katy Sullivan,

MAAF Board Member

“

“

“

“

Our mission is to reward positive behavior from at-risk youth through educational, cultural, and recreational

programs. Rarely have any of the kids we serve ever attended a play; many have never even been outside their

neighborhoods. Although we take youth to Lakers and Clippers games, horseback

riding, and more, it is always the plays they talk about most.

When I walk through their school, the kids call out, “Miss, when is the next play at the Geffen?” Often a young

man will say to me after being at the Geffen, ‘The woman next to me asked me how I liked the play!’ — in

complete surprise. Then I say, ‘Of course she did. She wants to know. Did you tell her?’ And then the young man

will give me a detailed account of what he told the Geffen patron, elated that he or she wanted his opinion.

This would never happen without the generosity of the Geffen Playhouse

and its donors. These kids would never know about theater and how much it would bring to their lives.

Thank you.

Kendall Wolf, Executive Director

It’s Time for Kids

“

“

It is my sincere pleasure to express appreciation to your Board and donors on behalf of those served through your

LIGHTS UP Program. Our constituents are typically lower-middle class seniors with all of the challenges that aging brings,

especially in this difficult economy, which means diminishing opportunities for furthering our cultural education

and affordable socializing. The LIGHTS UP Program graciously offers both.

The Geffen offers respite in other ways, too. One woman, generally bound at home with the care of her extremely elderly

mother looks forward to the plays at the Geffen as her one escape from the onus of responsibility. She especially enjoyed

Ruth Draper’s Monologues as a great diversion. Another constituent told me, ‘It is always good to get out of your

comfort zone and visit another world, to be transported to another reality.’ She cited the excellent production of The Country House as being particularly impactful and completely transformative.

We are grateful to the donors who allow us to continually expand our horizons through the magic of

high-quality theater. We look forward to what the next season has in store!

Pat Box

Claude Pepper Senior Club

“

“

I represent the adult immigrant students of the West Valley Occupational Center, a vocational training school in

Woodland Hills. My students are from Africa, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the

Middle East and range in age from 18 to 80. I thank the Geffen, its Board, and donors for

providing such a unique and invaluable opportunity for my students and all of the other

deserving groups served through this program — a wide range of Angelenos who do not have access to theater.

The Geffen’s vision of community outreach has helped the LIGHTS UP Program grow into an in-depth, highly

impactful theater experience. Through pre-show discussions, comprehensive study guides, attending the plays,

completing surveys, and participating in post-show discussions, our students are gaining entrance into an

exciting and inspiring place: the world of theater. They are very grateful new theater lovers who become

ambassadors for the Geffen and who understand the important role they play in evaluating and strengthening

the Geffen’s connections to the diverse communities of Los Angeles.

James Palumbo, ESL Instructor

West Valley Occupational Center

“

“

At Urban Possibilities our governing truth is — what you believe about yourself is absolutely

everything. It determines your experience of life, your choices, and your trajectory. And

when you’ve faced traumas like severe abuse, incarceration, life-long poverty, sudden job

loss, military scars, and homelessness like our students, your belief in what’s possible is

often trampled under the weight of overwhelming circumstances, and all you see are the

scars. That’s why empowerment is key to our mission to serve inner-city job seekers and

our partnership with the Geffen Playhouse is a lifeline.

Participating in Geffen Playhouse programs and walking through those doors immediately

expands our students’ views of what’s possible and brings light to internal dark places.

This program continues to help folks recover from drowning in hopelessness. Thank you for

helping us invigorate the imaginations of inner-city jobs seekers. Investing in their creativity

and self-efficacy is key not only to job success, but to building communities that thrive.

Eyvette Jones Johnson, Founder & Executive Director

Urban Possibilities

“

“

I have been part of the Geffen’s wonderful outreach program through Urban Possibilities @ Chrysalis for the last two seasons.

I wanted to take this time out to express my deep, heartfelt gratitude for your construction of this program and tell you a little bit

about myself and how the Geffen Playhouse has assisted in jump-starting not only my career in acting and theater but has also

given me newfound confidence and ideas that I can use to help others in need. I came here from New York after studying film and

acting. I obtained my union card and was cast in a network sitcom with my idol Danny Glover and also became the voice of

Macy’s, the national department store chain. But the sitcom was cancelled before it started and the voice-over work dried up.

Struggling to maintain and not having any family in California, I found myself homeless. While searching for work, I found

Chrysalis and joined the Urban Possibilities program held at their downtown facility. When I found out that the Geffen Playhouse

was partnering with Urban Possibilities, it felt like a lifeguard threw me a raft after I'd been wrestling in twenty feet of water for

hours. The program is fantastic. It takes people who’ve never had a ‘theater experience’ and gives them a new world where they

can go home and use those lessons to help create a ‘new life.’ With the pre-show sessions, the study guides and the post-show

discussions, we feel comfortable and eager to see a play and to discuss what we saw, what we learned and how it made us feel.

For me it’s a reminder that theater and ‘real life’ are often one and the same. Thank you for the resuscitation.

David Lee Thomason

PROOF THAT YOUR GENEROSITY IS A LIFELINE

“

“

The Geffen’s LIGHTS UP Program is a priceless gift to the seniors who are living in

our Salvation Army Silvercrest non-profit residence home. Participating in a program of this

caliber is an extraordinary experience for our residents and contributes tremendously to their quality of life and

sense of well-being. It gives our residents a chance to get out and feel like they are

culturally and intellectually alive! Not only are they attending first-rate theater in one of the most well-

regarded theaters in America, but also they have the added benefit of pre- and post-show workshops with the

Geffen’s Teaching Artist, Connor White, who is wildly popular at Silvercrest. Our residents read the Geffen’s

study guides from cover to cover. All of this stimulates their minds, provokes lively discussions, and gives them

something to look forward to! The commitment and generosity of the Geffen and its donors in offering this

program sets the highest standard for educational and community outreach in the city of Los Angeles.

Of all the programs we offer our seniors, none is more appreciated that our partnership

with the Geffen Playhouse. We are forever grateful.

Amy Malina, Program Coordinator

Silvercrest Senior Residence

“

“

I am writing you on behalf of all the residents of West Hollywood Community Housing Corporation who benefit from the Geffen’s

LIGHTS UP Program. We are deeply grateful and see how each play deeply affects the hearts, minds, and views of our

affordable housing project residents, who would have no access to theater without this program. As an older citizen living on a

fixed income and trying to make ends meet on a daily basis, it's tough to come up with the money for entertainment. Theater

tickets are way beyond the budget of low-income persons. Due to your donors’ generous donations, we now have access to great

possibilities and cultural experiences at the Geffen!

As an immigrant from the former Soviet Union, I am always looking for cultural education. Every play I see at the Geffen makes a

big impact on my knowledge of American life and helps my immersion into and understanding of the American culture, as well

as improves my English skills. For example, after I saw Reasons to Be Pretty, I had long discussions with my friends about the play.

Until my visit to the Geffen, I was not familiar with the work of Neil LaBute, but seeing Reasons to Be Pretty struck achord with me and I am determined to read more of his plays.

Being able to attend the plays is like a breath of fresh air to me and has taken my thoughts out of my

sometimes depressive state. When I am at the theater, watching wonderful actors live on stage greatly enhances my life and

changes my perspective. It makes me think about other people and their problems, relationships and life experiences. I can

assure you that the Geffen’s Lights Up program is definitely a most powerful tool that helps transform lives! Thank you!

Maya Genova

“

“

THE DIFFERENCE YOUR GENEROSITY MADE TO

VETERANS

On behalf of every person who gained the opportunity to participate in

our LIGHTS UP Program because of your generosity,

our profound gratitude to you.

veterans gained this through your support:

veterans’ Nights at the Geffen: Year-round access to Geffen plays for veterans who are struggling with re-entry, feeling

isolated and disconnected from society, and/or who are living with significant challenges as a result of their service (physical,

economic, psychosocial). Veterans are invited to attend the final dress rehearsal of Gil Cates Theater shows and to enjoy an

elegant pre-show dinner at which they are formally thanked for their service to our country and have the opportunity to meet

veterans from all over Los Angeles. The Gary Sinise Foundation covers the cost of the dinners, while donors like you fund all of

the other costs, including the time of the casts and stage crew, and those who help us welcome the Veterans. The artists and

production staff stay after each performance to meet and greet the veterans and to participate in a formal “Talk Back” to

answer questions and give these special guests an inside look at the artistic process.

As an inaugural member of the Blue Star Theatres Program, the Geffen Playhouse now offers four complimentary tickets to

any main stage show for anyone who presents a military service card. While most every other theater in California

offers tickets at discount, the Geffen Playhouse is the only theater that offers completely free tickets to Veterans, thanks to

donors like you, who are passionate about the Geffen reaching out to and removing all barriers for veterans to feel

welcomed, honored, and wholeheartedly connected to the cultural assets of Los Angeles.

There are many inspiring, life-changing activities that occasionally present themselves to our veterans; none more exciting than the veterans' Night at the Geffen Playhouse.Since the program's inception, we have shared this magnificent evening with many of our more than

200 full-time residents here at the Veterans Home of California in West Los Angeles.

Discussing these plays before attending, bringing our WWII, Korean, and Vietnam War Veterans to the

Geffen and sharing their responses following the performances, has added immeasurably to the dynamics

and vitality of these honorably discharged vets. We truly appreciate the generosity of the Geffen’s donors

and the impact this program has on those fortunate enough to attend. Please continue to welcome our

veterans to these outstanding experiences.

Chaplain DOV Cohen, Veterans Home of West LA

United States Air Force 1962-1966

“

“

We really enjoy the opportunity to come to the theater, have a nice dinner and see such extraordinary,

professional productions. We are especially touched that people are sokind to sponsor so many vets and make this opportunity possible for those who are often so isolated and in need ofthis kind of culture and connection to others. I’m looking forward to at-

tending more Veterans’ Nights at the Geffen in the future!

Veterans’ Night Attendee

“

“

I hear over and over again about how thoughtful it is to include the Veterans in this. They feel it gives

them insight and inspiration into the industry that no one else is willing to give them.

Please keep doing it.

Dana Commandatore

Veterans in Film & Television

““

I am so proud that the Gary Sinise Foundation is partnering with the Geffen Playhouse.

The Geffen’s plays are a cornerstone of our Arts & Entertainment outreach here in

Los Angeles. We’re honoring our defenders, veterans, first responders, and their families,

by providing them with inspiring cultural experiences throughout the year.

My deepest appreciation to Geffen supporters who make our Veterans’ Nights possible.

Thanks to you, our nation’s veterans may experience the joy of live theater absolutely free of charge.

Gary Sinise, Founder

The Gary Sinise Foundation

“

“

An evening at the Geffen Playhouse with Veterans can be described inone word: Magical.

I look forward to every opportunity to go.

Pamela L. Scott

Veterans’ Night Attendee

““

I can assure you that these special Sunday nights for Veterans are very much appreciated

by all the active duty servicemen and women and so many Veteran groups that we have

connected to this wonderful support program by the Geffen Playhouse. This programensures that ‘no soldier, young or old, will be forgotten’ and

complements our non-profit’s mission and objectives.

We look forward to inviting many more of our troops to enjoy this wonderful Geffen support

night with their colleagues and brothers-in-arms in the future.

Tom Fick, Founder/Executive Director

Project: Hollywood Cares

Navy Veteran

“

“

On behalf of every veteran who gained

the opportunity to enjoy live theater

because of your generosity,

our profound gratitude to you. THE IMPACT OF YOUR SUPPORTON UCLA STUDENTS

you helped make this possible: A PARTNERSHIP WITH UCLA THAT IS HELPING TO BUILD & INSPIRETHE NEXT GENERATION OF THEATER ARTS LEADERSThrough opportunities for UCLA graduate and undergraduate students to:

Benefit from master classes with world-class actors, playwrights and directors who are part of

Geffen Playhouse productions during the year.

Gain real world experience through professional internships in directing, playwriting,

dramaturgy, acting, stage management, production management, lighting, sound, public relations, arts

education, development, marketing and more. (To date, 130 UCLA students have interned at the Geffen)

Employment. At least 25 students a year are employed by the Geffen in positions that give them paid,

resume-building experiences as members of our Production, Front of House, Box Office and other teams.

Special access to the art on stage. Complimentary tickets to dress rehearsals and preview nights,

low-cost tickets to all other regular Gil Cates main stage shows, invitations to special readings and workshops

of new plays, and performance space for showcases. (Annually, more than 1,000 UCLA students attend per-

formances at the Geffen, thanks to your generosity).

NEW: A Professional Theater Practicum — a 10-week course giving students a detailed

understanding of what it takes to run a LORT B Regional Theater.

MASTER CLASSES FOR UCLA STUDENTS WITH ANNETTE BENING & RANDALL ARNEY QUALITY TIME WITH GEFFEN ARTISTS

JOBS AND INTERNSHIPS FOR UCLA STUDENTS

The Geffen course helped me realize that my interest in theater can go further than college, that there are ways

to work within an industry that I love, and that I can contribute to keeping an art form going that I have a great

interest in. Whether that be in other various roles of running a theater (development, education, or marketing),

there is ample opportunity to be a part of the theater community. It also let me gain more appreciation

for the Geffen and strive to work with the Geffen leaders whom I got to learn about on a personal level.

The Geffen allowed this class to be a gateway to exploring other careersthat I would have otherwise never of thought about. I hope that the class continues

and that other college students will have the same eye-opening experience as I did. I am hoping to be able to

continue to work for this amazing theater that I call my second home.

Taylor Cerny

UCLA Student

“

“A PROFESSIONAL THEATER PRACTICUM (10-WEEK COURSE) FOR UCLA STUDENTS ON ALL ASPECTS OF RUNNING A THEATER

I greatly enjoyed getting insider perspectives on parts of the theater I do not normally consider or think about. My eyes were opened to the intricacy of all of the various

departments, not just the usual parts we learn about or experience in our usual classes.

I enjoyed how we got so much one-on-one time with all of the heads of the Geffen departments.

I loved being able to hear directly from theater professionals and their journey to their position. I also like that we could

better understand the workings of a theater from all perspectives.

This was the best class I have taken in a while!

I have taken away so much more from this class than I had expected, and I love the Geffen more so now than ever!

WHAT THE UCLA STUDENTS WOULD LIKE YOU TO KNOW:

““

““

““““““

We dedicate this report to joan rivers

in recognition of all she gave to the geffen playhouse

and the people we serve — through her time here on our stage

and through everything she did, without hesitation,

to raise funds for our education programs.

a legend in every way

On behalf of UCLA students who gained the opportunity to

advance their love for and knowledge of theater arts,

our profound gratitude to you.

San Fernando valley

Burbank

Glendale

Eagle Rock

Pasadena

Lincoln Heights

Downtown Los Angeles

Huntington Park

East Los Angeles

Santa Monica

Watts

Long Beach

Redondo Beach

South Los Angeles

Westchester

venice

Culver City

West Hollywood

North Hollywood

Winnetka

Boyle Heights

Toluca Lake

Inglewood

Elementary Schools Served through ourStory Pirates Residency ProgramBeachy Avenue Elementary, San Fernando ValleyLorena Street Elementary, Boyle HeightsNora Sterry Elementary, West Los AngelesRockdale Elementary, Eagle RockToluca Lake Elementary, North Hollywood

High Schools Served through our Geffen Playhouse Literacy ProjectMendez High School for College and Career Preparation, Boyle Heights

High Schools & Organizations Served through Student Matinees of Geffen ProductionsJordan High School, WattsMendez High School – College and Career Preparatory, Boyle HeightsRoosevelt High School, Boyle HeightsSantee Education Complex, South Los AngelesWestchester Enriched Sciences Magnet, Westchester

veterans served through our veterans Initiatives New DirectionsPATH Homeless OrganizationProject Hollywood CaresServe the WarriorTeam RubiconUCLA Operation MendUnited States Veterans Artists AllianceVeterans Home of West LAVeterans in Film & TelevisionVeterans of West LA

Schools & Organizations Served through our Saturday Family ProgrammingBeverly Vista Elementary SchoolCoachArtThe Growing PlaceKehillat IsraelPalisades ElementaryWest Hollywood Elementary

Schools and Organizations Served through our LIGHTS UP ProgramAffordable Living for the AgingBeing Alive Beverly Hills Adult SchoolCalifornia Lawyers for the ArtsChallengers Boys and Girls ClubChoreographer’s Theater EnsembleClaude Pepper Senior Community CenterCountry Villa TerraceCreate NOWCultural Education ProjectEast Los Angeles CollegeFelicia Mahood Senior CenterFifty-Fifty LeadershipGet Lit - Words IgniteHeal the BayHollywood ArtsHolman United Methodist Church Arts CouncilInside Out Community ArtsIsrael Levin Senior CenterIt’s Time for KidsLong Beach Central Area AssociationMar Vista Gardens Recreational CenterMath/Science Upward BoundMutual Amputee Aid FoundationOasis West LAPhoenix HouseReading is Fundamental of Southern CaliforniaRussian American ChoirSanta Monica Emeritus CollegeSelf-Realization FellowshipSheenway School and Cultural CenterSilvercrest Senior CenterSRO HousingSt. Monica Senior MinistriesStep Up on SecondSunset HallThomas Safran and AssociatesUrban PossibilitiesVenice Service CenterWest Hollywood Community Housing CorporationWest Valley Occupational Center – AEWC West Valley Occupational Center - ESLZeta Rho

THANK YOU FOR HELPING US SERVE SO MANY SCHOOLS & COMMUNITIES OF LOS ANGELES

Blythe Danner

Scott Foley

Eric Lange David Rasche

Daniel Sullivan

Donald Margulies

Emily SwallowSarah Steele

Orson Bean

Austin Butler

David Clayton Rogers Lyndon Smith

Bart DeLorenzo

Steven Drukman

Nick Gehlfuss

Shawn Hatosy

Amber Tamblyn Alicia Witt

Randall Arney

Neil LaBute Greg PierceRae GrayWilliam Petersen

Patrick Richwood

Dixie Longate Kris Andersson

WHO SUPPORTED OUR EDUCATION & OUTREACH PROGRAMSWITH LOVE AND GRATITUDE TO ALL OF THE ARTISTS

Amy Brenneman

Beth Dixon

virginia Kull Kellie Overbey

Peter DuBois

Gina Gionfriddo

Lee Tergesen

Brighid Fleming

Rod McLachlan

Matt McTighe Alison Pill

Matt Shakman

Jeffrey Hatcher

Mather ZickelAdam Stein

Annette Bening

Hershey Felder Trevor Hay Mona Golabek Hershey Felder

Bette Midler John Logan

Teller

Todd Robbins

Joe Mantello

Martha HendersonCo-Chair

Pamela RobinsonHollanderCo-Chair

Gil Cates, Jr.Vice Chair

Cynthia P. Stafford Howard Tenenbaum

Patricia Kiernan Applegate

Beth Behrs Dr. Gene D. Block Harold A. Brown Michael Centeno Mary Ann Cloyd

Robert A. Daly Dennis Doty Mark Fleischer David Geffen Herbert M. Gelfand Patricia L. Glaser Adi GreenbergDr. Brad Edgerton

Ginny Mancini

Arthur Greenberg Quincy Jones Joan Kaloustian Jeffrey Katzenberg Glorya Kaufman Loretta Everett Kaufman

Dr. Gerald S. Levey Carla Malden Susan Mallory

Victoria Mann Simms Barry Meyer Ron Meyer Scott Minerd Leslie Moonves Jerry Moss Steven A. Olsen

Jerry Perenchio Bruce Ramer Holly Rice Loren Rothschild Teri Schwartz Andy Spahn Fred Specktor

Steven Spielberg Lorraine Spurge DeeAnna Staats

Linda Bernstein Rubin

Kirsten Combs

Frank G. Mancuso

Richard Sherman

Dr. Charles E. YoungSteve Tisch

WITH APPRECIATION TO YOU FROM THE BOARD OF THE GEFFEN AND FROM OUR ADVISORY BOARD

Miranda TollmanChair

Annette Blum Stephanie Carson Lori Collins

Valarie de la Garza Colin Egglesfield

Wendy Kurtzman Jason Lee

John McCrite Rollin Ransom Allen Shay John Sonego Laurie Ziegler

Hannah Linkenhoker

Debra Davis

Lanre Idewu Yvonne Lee

Regina MillerChief Development

Officer

Randall ArneyArtistic Director

Ken NoviceManaging Director

AND OUR EXECUTIVE TEAM

Priscila Giraldo Kirsten Hansen Eric Heer

Our founder, Gil Cates, was often asked why one should support arts organizations

when there is so much need to help families who are struggling to pay for food,

who are losing their homes (or have already lost them), or who are in need of

health care and other basics. He would respond with deep conviction that we

should all give generously to organizations that help provide such urgent human

needs. He would also remind us that, in addition to the need for food, housing,

jobs, and health care, there are also intangible basic human needs — including

the fundamental need to feel connected to others, to feed the soul, to be

stimulated by stories about who we are and who we can be, as well as the basic

and recurring need for catharsis and hope. From day one, Gil’s vision for this

theater included making sure that programs were in place to welcome with open

arms the most disenfranchised, disconnected and disadvantaged children and

adults of Los Angeles. No matter how pressing the financial pressures are to sell

every seat in the house each night, we believe that the theater is to be shared with

children and adults who could use some uplifting, catharsis and meaningful

connection to the world. Thank you for helping us share this theater with so many,

and for helping us continue the vision and legacy of Gil Cates, pictured above with

his son, Gil Cates, Jr., who just like his father, is a complete inspiration in his

commitment, compassion, and leadership. Thanks to your generosity,

more than 15,000 children and adults experienced and

benefitted from the one-of-a-kind power, joy, and

inspiration of live theater this past year.

WITH PROFOUND GRATITUDE TO YOU

FROM YOUR FAMILY AND FANS AT THE GEFFEN PLAYHOUSE

Please contact any of us if you have any questions

about our programs or about your report or any ideas

or feedback to share.

Pictured left to right:

Connor White, Resident Teaching Artist & Education Associate

Jessica Brusilow Rollins, Director of Education Partnerships

Jennifer Zakkai, Director of Education & Community Outreach

Kristen Smith Eshaya, Education Programs Coordinator and More!

Phone: 310.208.6500

10886 Le Conte Avenue

Los Angeles, CA 90024

Special thanks to Jeff Lorch for his beautiful photographythroughout the year and throughout this report.

Education & Outreach Team

a non-profit organization

dedicated to enriching the cultural

life of Greater Los Angeles through

plays and educational programs that

inform, entertain and inspire.

this report to you was funded throughthe generosity of

the Marilyn & Jeffrey Katzenberg Fund for Arts Education

at the Geffen Playhouse