Mission
Zeiders American Dream Theater is a professional, non-profit theater that introduces new works and emerging artists, presents unique artistic experiences, and inspires creative growth in the Hampton Roads Community.
The Z’s founding principles are that creativity drives the growth of individuals and communities; and that the imagination, passion, and discipline of creation are universal requirements for all successful endeavors, artistic and otherwise.
Our mission is accomplished through programming balanced between developing projects and artists, presenting regional, national and international artists, and community-driven events.
What The Z is about:
The Z is about ARTISTIC EXPERIENCES.
Unique entertainment. Distinctive venues. Creative conversations. The Z’s 300-seat theater and studio theater will offer an intimate, interactive complement to existing larger venues in the area, thereby broadening and enriching arts entertainment opportunities as a whole. For Hampton Roads audiences that means entertainment that they won’t get to experience anywhere else.
The Z is about ARTISTIC OPPORTUNITY.
Hampton Roads has got talent. Our region is brimming with exceptionally gifted creative people and performers—musicians, writers, playwrights and much more. The Z provides a unique professional venue in which these artists can showcase and develop their crafts in real time.
The Z is about CREATIVE EXPLORATION.
The arts are perhaps most alive in the creation of new work. The Z serves as a “creative kitchen” in which artists can introduce new songs, writing, plays and more. The Z’s support allows them to explore, take risks and immerse themselves in the creative process.
The Z is about DYNAMIC COLLABORATION.
We’re all in this together. By partnering with established area arts organizations like the Virginia Symphony and Virginia Musical Theatre, The Z complements and enhances their programming, community reach and impact. The Z understands that when the arts as a whole thrive, we all benefit—artists, patrons and the broader community.
The Z is about COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT.
Our passion for the arts reflects a “big picture” passion for our community. Whether we are guiding a talented musician in taking their music to the next level, or working with local leaders on a new event in town, or partnering with a non-profit organization to create their next support activity, The Z is dedicated to helping our community achieve its full creative potential.
