Celebrating a decade of daring, diverse, and delightful performing arts

In 2011, The Sprout Fund reached its 10th anniversary, marking a milestone in the organization’s life. This provided a moment to reflect on a decade of accomplishments and The Sprout Fund’s role in enriching Pittsburgh’s cultural landscape. Since 2001, Sprout had been seeding new and emerging artists, cultivating regional talent, and helping to make Pittsburgh a viable environment for a thriving arts community.

To celebrate this milestone, Sprout presented TENACITY, a one-night-only retrospective event. The event, which benefited The Sprout Fund, was held on Friday, December 9, 2011, at the August Wilson Center for African American Culture. It was designed as a showcase of the “best Sprout-supported performing arts groups and individuals” from the organization’s first decade, brought together on one stage.

The evening was more than just a performance; it was a high-quality production designed to elevate the showcase experience. Under the artistic direction of Mac Howison and with production management by Clear Story, the event featured world-class stage settings, sound, and light. The evening included a pre-show reception and a post-show party with live music, complimentary food and drink catered by Parkhurst, and a Sprout goodie bag with an original print poster by Brian Holderman.

TENACITY successfully brought together a wide array of performers—from poetry and opera to puppet theater and radio drama. It showcased artists who defined the “daring, the diverse, and the delightful” in Pittsburgh’s arts scene. The event served as a powerful demonstration of Sprout’s decade-long impact and a celebration made possible by the community’s support.

Program In Brief