Boston, Mass. – SpeakEasy Stage Company published its Community Expectations, a public page on facilitating respectful conversations for artists, patrons, board members and staff, on its website the afternoon of October 30, 2019.

This list of expectations is a continuation of SpeakEasy’s work towards an inclusive, brave and accessible environment, said the SpeakEasy website. “The only way we can facilitate effective and constructive conversations created by this work is by treating all people with respect,” said the website.

In an email, Community Programs Manager Alex Lonati said, “So much of the SpeakEasy community already feels like a family, and our hope with this Community Expectations statement is that we will continue to create a space where everyone feels welcome and safe to participate and enjoy.”

The theatre company expects artists, patrons, board members and staff to comply with the tenets of the Community Expectations. The conduct includes, but is not limited to:

• Respecting all cultural backgrounds and identities.
• Understanding each individual’s right to be at the theater and enjoy it in their own way while being mindful of those around them.
• Showing appreciation for the facility and those working within it.

“In this rather tumultuous time, we believe that our community can only benefit from a reminder of the respectful ways to act at the theater, and the fact that everyone is welcome to attend and enjoy art in their own way. If nothing else, we believe this statement will start a conversation and encourage people to really think about how they are impacting the experience of others,” said Lonati.

The website says that anyone who has experienced behavior that has negatively impacted their ability to fully participate the art SpeakEasy creates should reach out to Community Programs Manager Alex Lonati. Community members are also encouraged to contact SpeakEasy staff or the Board of Directors.

“We are here to listen,” says the website.