Abstract

With the inclusive history and connotation of art programs, many words like inclusivity and diversity are often mentioned by arts organizations, but not often emphasized in ways that are tangible or even visible. This research takes the notion of inclusivity in children’s theatre and further examines how these theaters are attempting to transform the word "inclusivity" into inclusive practices and if this transformation varies by cultural region. This analysis is presented through in-depth content analysis of three theatrical sites across three regions in the United States - The West, The South, and the Northeast - totaling nine sites overall. I found that inclusivity across these regions was emphasized in many ways - most commonly, the inclusion of in-school programming, accessibility measures taken, and vague inclusivity. Rather than varying regionally, the organizations that had the biggest sponsors and most donors were able to provide the most inclusive programming. Based on these findings, theaters with the most funding are able to do the most inclusive work.