The Public Theater

The Public Theater continues the work of its visionary founder Joe Papp as a civic institution engaging with some of the most important ideas and social issues of today. Conceived over 60 years ago as one of the nation’s first nonprofit theaters, The Public has long operated on the principle that theater is an essential cultural force for all. Under Artistic Director Oskar Eustis and Executive Director Patrick Willingham, The Public’s programming includes an annual season of new works, Free Shakespeare in Central Park, free Mobile Unit, Public Works, and Joe’s Pub. Since premiering HAIR in 1967, The Public continues to create the canon of American Theater.