The Forward Fund.

The Forward Fund combines Roundabout’s efforts to create a vibrant theatre company that reflects the communities we serve. In addition to our five-year strategic plan centered on culture and engagement this work includes our community partnerships, access, career development, and our initiatives to engage an array of artists that represent the future of the American theatre. Your support is an investment in our work onstage, behind the scenes, and across New York City to build community and broaden access to the performing arts.

The Refocus Project

Transforming the American theatre canon.

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Building a Better Roundabout

Transforming our culture.

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Community Partnerships

Building relationships across New York City.

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Career Development

Fostering the next generation of dynamic theatre professionals.

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Want to get Involved?


The annual budget for Forward Fund initiatives is over $2 million each year. Our Forward Fund Champions are crucial to this important work. Membership starts at $25,000 and includes special recognition and behind-the-scenes access to Forward Fund programs. All donations are integral to our ability to make Roundabout and the theatre industry more accessible to all.

Forward Fund Champions

Elizabeth Armstrong

Kevin Brown

Barbara and Peter Bye

Gina Maria Leonetti

Beryl Snyder

Denise Littlefield Sobel

Liz and Ken Whitney

To learn more about becoming a Forward Fund Champion, please contact Kristen Robinson, Development Director, at [email protected] or 212-719-9393 ext. 318.

The Refocus Project

A production photo from HOME. A man sits in a rocking chair while two women stand in a field of crops behind him with hands over their hearts.
Home at the Todd Haimes Theatre

In the spring of 2021, we launched The Refocus Project to shine a spotlight on underproduced 20th century playwrights from underrepresented voices. In its first few years, Refocus has brought new attention to dozens of playwrights including Alice Childress, Samm-Art Williams, René Marqués, Velina Hasu Houston, William S. Yellow Robe Jr., and Migdalia Cruz.

Learn More about The Refocus Project

Building a Better Roundabout

Primary Trust Talkback at the Laura Pels Theatre

We believe in theatre and its powers to reflect and impact the world. Building a Better Roundabout is our strategic plan to evaluate and evolve how we address belonging in our work, our workplaces, and our community. 

Learn More about Building a Better Roundabout

Community Partnerships

A group of participants huddle together for a photo at a community garden workshop.
A Community Garden workshop

Roundabout fosters mutual connection with the communities we serve through free multi-week creative workshops around the city, through which we also distribute Pay-What-You-Wish tickets. We collaborate with libraries, community spaces, and local nonprofits to break down physical, financial, and cultural barriers to theatre.

Learn More about Community Partnerships

Career Development

Two students dressed in black stand behind spotlights and smile.

Through innovative programs like the Theatrical Workforce Development Program, Hidden Career Path Days, and the Roundabout Directors Group, Roundabout launches the rising generation of theatre technicians and artists. These programs offer new entry points to the industry for talented young people from all walks of life.

Learn More about Career Development

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