By Globe Correspondent, Updated September 22, 2020, 5:19 p.m.
Merrimack Repertory Theatre and Free Soil Arts Collective, Lowell’s only Black-owned theater company, recently announced a partnership agreement.
After a yearlong collaboration, the two nonprofits have formalized that relationship by establishing Free Soil as MRT’s first official Company in Residence. Under the arrangement, MRT will provide Free Soil with rehearsal, performance, and office space.
Additionally, the two groups will jointly promote their respective programs, and Free Soil founder Christa Brown will join the MRT artistic staff and participate in season planning; casting; equity and antiracist work within MRT; and initiatives for emerging leaders. The Merrimack Repertory Theater performs seven works annually at its 279-seat Nancy L. Donahue Theatre at Liberty Hall in Lowell.