What is NET?

Why NET Exists: Power in Collaboration

Ensemble and collaborative artists know that this work isn’t meant to be done alone. While institutions often prioritize individual achievement, ensemble practice thrives on shared leadership, deep trust, and collective creativity. But the reality? Funding models, national arts policies, and industry structures aren’t built for this way of working.

That’s where NET comes in.

We exist because ensemble and collaborative practitioners deserve the same access to resources, advocacy, and sustainability as institutional models of theater. We exist because no single artist or ensemble should have to navigate these challenges in isolation.

Through NET, artists and ensembles connect not just to each other, but to the knowledge, networks, and advocacy needed to sustain and grow their work. Whether it’s developing new funding pathways, documenting the impact of ensemble practice, or advocating for systemic change, NET ensures that ensemble makers have the infrastructure, visibility, and collective power they need.

Explore our website to learn more about NET’s programs, our member-only resource hub, and how we’re shaping a future where ensemble practice isn’t just possible—it’s prioritized.

Mission Statement

A national community of artists and arts organizations dedicated to collaborative creation, the Network of Ensemble Theaters (NET) exists to propel ensemble theater practice to the forefront of culture and society. NET links a diverse array of ensembles and practitioners to one another and the performing arts field, encouraging collaborations and knowledge building/dissemination. NET is committed to the advancement of the ensemble form and strives to bring about change in the world beyond ourselves through the transformative power of collaborative theater and ensemble practice. We support bold artistic and civic experiments and aim to heighten the impact and excellence of ensemble theater.

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of the Network of Ensemble Theaters (NET) is to:

Advocate. NET organizes and promotes ensemble theater making as a distinct element of theater and performance, amplifying our collective voice for local and national impact. NET advocates in cultural policy discussions for ensembles and ensemble practice, and serves as a resource to private foundations, government funders, educational institutions, and others in the field and beyond.

Build Knowledge. A tremendous amount of knowledge exists within individuals and companies. NET collects, organizes, and distributes this community learning to deepen artistic investigations and organizational innovations. NET convenes our members and offers professional development opportunities to enhance and share field knowledge.

Sustain Ensembles. Through our programs and initiatives, NET strives to secure the future of ensemble theatermaking and ensemble practice by supporting the growth, health, and vibrancy of  ensemble companies, artists, and practitioners. NET provides opportunities for collaboration, exchange, peer knowledge sharing, and mentorship to improve ensembles’  organizational and artistic capacity building.