An endowment, managed by the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, was initially created by a donation from The New Theatre Restaurant, Mr. Carrothers and Mr. Hennessy (made in memory of Dr. Patricia McIlrath, founder of the Kansas City Repertory Theater). Three additional funds were established: the McDowell Family Fund, the Don Knotts Fund and the Dodie Brown Scholarship Fund. Other gifts include The New Theatre Guild Virginia Kelley Scholarship, and a scholarship awarded by Julia Boutress to UMKC. The New Theatre Guild has the only theatre arts scholarship fund at the university level that is managed by the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation.

Prior to the opening night of each New Theatre Restaurant production, the 365 guild members and their guests are invited to meet with the director and cast members, who give the history, dramaturgy and directing footnotes of the play. They may also attend dress rehearsals. These “behind the scenes” experiences help build audiences not only at the New Theater, but at theatre arts performances in other venues.

Through its scholarship programs, the Guild helps insure the long-term growth of quality theatre in the community.

Photo History Timeline