Purple Crayon Productions is a student-run theatre company based in Silver Spring, Maryland. Our organization began in 2016 with a production of Tom Stoppard’s Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead. After performing at the Highwood Theatre, we went on to produce Caryl Churchill’s Love and Information at the DC Arts Center in Washington DC; co-founder Raina Greifer’s original play Mesa, AZ or Something Like It in the Capital Fringe Festival; and a performance of Macbeth at the Silver Spring Stage.

 

One of Purple Crayon’s core values is collaboration. Across the different projects we have done, our members have taken on a variety of roles: directing one, performing in another, stage managing the next. However, the five board members (Catherine Horowitz, Raina Greifer, Sophie Falvey, Emma Creekmore, and Sophia Varnai) are all consistently involved in co-producing the shows. Purple Crayon has also explored devised and original works in which we have together re-interpreted text or worked as an ensemble on original pieces. 

 

This organization was also founded with the goal of creating opportunities for young people in a field that favors more established professionals. It was started by a group of four high school juniors, but has continued to expand its reach with every new project, bringing in young performers, musicians, designers, and more. Rather than waiting to be given opportunities, Purple Crayon has focused on creating them.

 

As we move forward, we hope to continue exploring different methods of storytelling, theatrical and digital; reviving classics; and developing original work. Whatever the story, Purple Crayon is always looking for the thing that is exciting, the opportunity for growth, and the medium to be explored.