Meaning: The quote "The primary function of a theater is not to please itself, or even to please its audience. It is to serve talent." by Robert Brustein, an American educator, critic, and producer, reflects a fundamental principle of the performing arts. This statement emphasizes the importance of nurturing and showcasing artistic talent as the central purpose of theater, rather than prioritizing the satisfaction of the theater itself or its audience.

In essence, Brustein's quote underscores the notion that the core mission of a theater should be to provide a platform for artistic expression and creativity. Rather than solely existing for entertainment or commercial purposes, a theater should be dedicated to supporting and facilitating the work of talented individuals within the performing arts community.

At the heart of Brustein's statement is the recognition of the essential role that talent plays in the vitality and integrity of the theater. By prioritizing the service of talent, the theater can fulfill its potential as a space for artistic innovation, cultural enrichment, and the exploration of diverse perspectives.

From a historical perspective, this philosophy aligns with the traditional functions of theaters in ancient civilizations, where they served as platforms for storytelling, communal rituals, and the celebration of creative expression. In this context, the theater was deeply intertwined with the cultivation of talent and the preservation of cultural heritage.

In contemporary society, the quote also resonates with the ongoing debates and discussions within the performing arts community regarding the purpose and direction of theatrical institutions. As commercial pressures and audience preferences continue to influence programming decisions, Brustein's perspective serves as a reminder of the intrinsic value of supporting and nurturing artistic talent.

Furthermore, Brustein's emphasis on serving talent challenges the notion of theater as a purely consumer-driven industry, highlighting the importance of maintaining a commitment to artistic excellence and creative risk-taking. This perspective encourages theaters to prioritize the development of emerging artists, the commissioning of new works, and the exploration of unconventional narratives and theatrical forms.

In practical terms, the quote prompts theaters to consider how they can best support talent within their programming, production processes, and organizational structures. This may involve establishing artist residencies, providing resources for skills development, fostering mentorship opportunities, and creating platforms for marginalized voices and underrepresented communities.

Moreover, Brustein's quote invites reflection on the relationship between theaters and their audiences. While the quote suggests that the primary function of a theater is not to please its audience, it does not dismiss the importance of engaging and challenging spectators. Instead, it encourages theaters to adopt a more nuanced approach to audience engagement, one that seeks to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and stimulate dialogue through the presentation of compelling, artistically-driven work.

Ultimately, Robert Brustein's quote encapsulates a vision of the theater as a dynamic and inclusive space that is dedicated to advancing the art form, nurturing creative talent, and engaging with the broader cultural and social landscape. By embracing this perspective, theaters can aspire to fulfill their potential as vibrant, relevant, and transformative institutions within their communities.