Detroit's Original Classical Theatre

Shakespeare in Detroit (SiD) began in 2012 as a grassroots initiative called Shakespeare Against Cancer, bringing the healing power of classical performance to children and families in hospitals across Detroit. Just one year later, in 2013, SiD made history by producing the city’s first-ever Shakespeare in the park experience, becoming Detroit’s first and only professional theatre company dedicated solely to Shakespeare and classical works.

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Since then, thousands of Detroiters have experienced SiD’s powerful productions—performed in parks, theatres, and nontraditional venues alike. SiD is now known for its bold, high-caliber performances that center community, equity, and excellence.

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In 2019, the company expanded its impact with the launch of Shakespeare STEAM, an in-classroom educational program that fuses science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics through the lens of theatre-making. In 2021, SiD introduced its Summer Conservatory, a five-to-six-week intensive for Detroit teens focused on acting, design, and technical theater. Since its inception, the Conservatory has awarded nearly $100,000 in scholarships to Detroit youth.

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SiD is led by Founder Sam White, a nationally recognized director, entrepreneur, and changemaker. She is a recipient of Crain’s Detroit 40 Under 40, The Michigan Chronicle’s 40 Under 40, The Detroit News Michiganian of the Year, and the Breakthrough Award from the National Association of Women Business Owners. Her work has been featured by the BBC, Forbes, and more. In 2023, White’s production of Wedding Band was praised by New York Times critic Jesse Green, who said it would have been Tony-nominated if it had been on Broadway.

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Shakespeare in Detroit’s work has also been recognized and supported by:

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• Max M. and Marjorie S. Fisher Foundation 

• National Endowment for the Arts

• The Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan

• The Kresge Foundation

• Gilbert Family Foundation

• Walters Family Foundation 

• DTE Energy Foundation, Deloitte and Hollywood Casino at Greektown

• Forbes, HOUR Detroit, The Guardian, The New York Times, and many more

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With a model that emphasizes intentional, responsive productions over rigid seasonal calendars, SiD remains committed to staging theatre that speaks to our time—offering powerful storytelling, professional opportunities for Detroit artists, and meaningful engagement with audiences across the region.