Our Mission & History
We believe engagement in live theatre can change the world and provide opportunities for early-career actors
Our core values are: Understanding, Opportunity, Passion & Engagement
Understanding
Contribute to inclusive change through understanding and learning about others by living in someone else’s shoes via live theatre.
Opportunity
Change the world through shared audience experiences.
Provide opportunity for early-career actors in what may be their first paid acting role.
Passion & Engagement
Engaging diverse audiences and creating a passion for live theatre and social change.
The goals of Cyclopedic Ensemble are
to bring theatre to new audiences and create a learning experience built around those productions,
to hire a diverse group of early-career actors and theatre technicians to gain additional professional experience and build their resumes.
History
When Cyclopedic Ensemble was first created, the entire mission was to build upon Eric Yazell’s accomplished work, in bringing Children’s Theatre to as many new audiences as possible. At State Fair Community College (SFCC) he was able to direct, and present children’s shows every year that brought thousands of elementary school students joy. Because SFCC was located in a rural region of Missouri, this was often the first time many children had ever seen a live, quality theatrical production.
After retiring from teaching, Eric decided to create a group that would continue the tradition he had built for many years. Several of his former students and his wife created “Cyclopedic Ensemble”, a non-profit organization.
Cyclopedic Ensemble’s first production was in July, 2022. As part of the KC Fringe Fest, we produced The Stinky Cheese Man and other Fair(ly) (stoopid) Tales on City Stage in Kansas City’s Union Station. Our production, directed by Eric Yazell, won KC Fringe Best of City Stage”. Our second production, Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience was produced in the 2023 KC Fringe Fest.
New partnerships will allow us to produce in both the KC Fringe Festival and at The Arts Asylum. We’re excited about our new opportunities.