SUPPORT CHARLESTON’S ORIGINAL THEATRE!
93 years and counting of live quality
theatre in Charleston, SC
Voted #1 theatre in Charleston, SC (Post & Courier’s Charleston Choice Awards) and hailed as Charleston’s original Theatre Company, The Footlight Players and Queen Street Playhouse have continued the legacy of this historic theatre since 1931. As a non-profit 501(c)(3), The Footlight Players is grateful for the tremendous support of donors and patrons alike, and thrives on grant funding, donations and gifts-in-kind. Maintaining a historic building, converted from an antebellum cotton warehouse in the 1930’s is a great challenge. As Executive Director Brian Porter notes, “Owning our own building is both a blessing and a burden. The generosity of our community helps us make the experience of live theatre accessible and affordable for patrons of all ages.”
In 2018 Brian Porter became the Executive Director of the Footlight Players after serving ten years as the Director of Administration for Charleston Stage. Through Brian’s extensive background in production and performance, he launched many initiatives at the Queen Street Playhouse, expanding the audience reach exponentially through new programming and a successful partnership with Spoleto Festival USA.
Kyle Barnette took on the role of Artistic Director at Footlight in 2022, after directing and performing nationally in regional theatres throughout the US and serving as the co-founder and Artistic Director of What If? Productions. Under Kyle’s direction, Footlight has become a creative artistic community for professional performers in the Lowcountry and artists throughout the country. From great American classics such as Death of a Salesman and Jekyll & Hyde, to innovative, straight from Broadway premieres such as Head Over Heels and POTUS, Footlight is always striving to be on the cutting edge of the current theatre scene, while paying homage to the art form’s deep-seated roots. “As you know, theatre can leave a lasting impact on the lives of those lucky enough to be exposed to performing arts, and we want you to a part of our generous impact,” says Kyle, upon the launch of Season 93.
Each season, Footlight provides a wide range of opportunities for patrons to enjoy live theatre. Executive Director Brian Porter and Artistic Director Kyle Barnette have elevated the selection of works and attracted a broader spectrum of performers to auditions, featuring a Main Stage Season of musicals and plays, the popular Act Two show series created to welcome theatre newcomers, as well as a Speakeasy Series of cabaret performances, which are usually sold out. Additionally, the theatre offers School Matinee tickets to select shows, introducing young people to the magic of live theatre.
In 2024, the Footlight Players and Queen Playhouse produced the multi-award-winning regional premiere of the one-man show, Einstein, featuring Los Angeles actor and playwright Jack Fry. This artistic scope and reach of Einstein was an impactful milestone as well as a major highlight for audiences.
The ongoing relationship with Spoleto Festival USA, provides significant support to the Queen Street Playhouse, while also bringing the historic French Quarter venue into the limelight for patrons around the globe.
Founded in 1931, Footlight Players and the Queen Street Playhouse play an influential role in the cultural life of the Holy City. We ask that you consider guiding your support toward a tax-deductible contribution to Footlight. Your thoughtful contribution will allow Footlight Players to continue to strive to the next level of artistic excellence while helping to maintain one of Charleston's most iconic performance venues.
To make your tax-deductible donation today, click the button below or call us at 843.722.4487
Thank you in advance for your support!