What's Happening?
Scott Ross and Eileen Land have revived their theater company, Down Right Theatre, in Georgia, with their children Spencer and Madeleine now actively involved. The company, originally founded by Scott, his brother Sam, and their father Ray in 1993, had
periods of dormancy. After an 11-year hiatus and a brief revival in 2007, Down Right Theatre resurfaced in January with a new generation of the Ross family. For its inaugural show, the family staged 'Doubt: A Parable' at Merely Players Theatre in Doraville, with Madeleine Ross playing Sister James, Spencer Ross as Father Flynn, and Eileen Land as Sister Aloysius Beauvier, while Scott directed. Following the success, they staged two more plays, 'It Had to Be You' and 'Italian American Reconciliation,' both rooted in the company's history.
Why It's Important?
The revival of Down Right Theatre with multi-generational family involvement signifies a significant cultural development in the local Georgia arts scene. It demonstrates the enduring passion for theater and the potential for family legacies to sustain artistic endeavors. The re-establishment of the theater company provides new opportunities for local actors, directors, and technical staff, contributing to the economic and cultural vitality of the community. Furthermore, by staging plays with historical significance to the company, Ross and Land are not only entertaining audiences but also preserving and evolving a local artistic heritage. This initiative can inspire other community-based arts organizations and foster a deeper appreciation for live theater.
What's Next?
Scott Ross and Eileen Land plan to continue Down Right Theatre's productions, with an upcoming goal to bring back 'Agnes of God,' a play previously staged by the company in 1994. This time, Land intends to take on the role of the psychiatrist, while her daughter, Madeleine, would star as Agnes, symbolizing a generational passing of the torch. The long-term vision for Down Right Theatre includes establishing a permanent home in Braselton, Georgia, mirroring the original founding where the Ross men converted a defunct hardware store into a theater. This move would further solidify the company's presence and expand its reach within the state's arts landscape.
Beyond the Headlines
The story of Down Right Theatre extends beyond mere theatrical productions; it embodies themes of family legacy, artistic resilience, and community building. The involvement of multiple generations of the Ross family highlights how shared passions can bridge generational gaps and create lasting cultural institutions. The aspiration to build a new theater in Braselton reflects a commitment to fostering arts in underserved areas, potentially transforming local cultural landscapes. This endeavor also speaks to the broader challenge and reward of sustaining independent arts organizations, often relying on deep personal commitment and community support to thrive against economic and logistical hurdles. It underscores the intrinsic value of local arts in enriching lives and strengthening community identity.
