Truth comes from the collision of different ideas, and theater plays an essential role in showing us that truth, says legendary artistic director Oskar Eustis. In this powerful talk, Eustis outlines his plan to reach (and listen to) people in places across the US where the theater, like many other institutions, has turned its back -- like the deindustrialized Rust Belt. "Our job is to try to hold up a vision to America that shows not only who all of us are individually, but that welds us back into the commonality that we need to be," Eustis says. "That's what the theater is supposed to do."

Oskar Eustis: Why theater is essential to democracy

Why theater is essential to democracy

Dialogue's inception in ancient Athens, paralleling democracy's birth, underscores theater's role in fostering societal discourse.

The Public Theater’s initiative, Free Shakespeare in the Park, exemplifies theater's democratic ethos, offering top-tier art for all.

The outreach of 'Sweat' across the U.S. Rust Belt reiterates theater's mission: to mirror society, sparking a dialogue for change.