Erasing the Distance Employee Directory
Performing ArtsIllinois, United States2-10 Employees
Erasing the Distance is a nonprofit performing arts organization based in Chicago, Illinois, that uses live performance to address mental health by reducing stigma, fostering dialogue, and supporting healing. Founded in 2005 by Brighid O’Shaughnessy, ETD produces work developed by professional theatre artists, with three program areas shaping its activities: Public Productions, staged for the general public at venues around Chicago (many world premieres, based on true stories); Custom Programs, which deliver tailored performances to varied audiences in the Chicago area and beyond with post-show talkbacks to facilitate discussion. ETD’s Education and Training offerings provide workshops and sessions for artists, students, mental health advocates, and health professionals to learn the organization’s process of gathering, transcribing, and staging true stories of people affected by mental health issues. It has reached more than 60,000 audience members. The work is grounded in core values including Compassion, Courageous Communication, Collaboration, Artistic and Operational Excellence, Financial Sustainability, and Responsible Impact. Based in Chicago, ETD remains a small nonprofit within the performing arts sector.