These are multifaceted, complex times in which we live. In response, since 2020, Colorado State University Theatre has curated and hosted a series of readings of plays addressing the hot topic themes of our times – issues that have pushed our culture to the brink...and reveal worlds of new possibilities. A collaboration of professional theatre artists, faculty members, current students, and CSU alumni, the ON THE BRINK Company explores works representing a variety of underrepresented voices and perspectives.

Led by Professor Saffron Henke, the ON THE BRINK Company is committed to amplifying marginalized voices and offering students the opportunity to explore a diverse array of plays by and about BIPOC, queer, and women artists from around the world. Goals for the OTBC include sharing a professional company creation model with students, encouraging a curiosity for and practice of reading new plays, exposure to new artists and perspectives, and bringing together faculty, professional artists, and students in creative collaboration.

The OTBC is functioning as a company creation class to support transparency and inclusion. All decisions are made by a student board and overseen by a faculty artistic director. Students volunteering for board membership wear many hats. They read and select plays for staged readings and serve as actors, technicians, marketing, and house management support. These actions provide the practical experience of company creation without the pressure of real-world budgeting and financial goals.