The Willmar Project – The Neighborhood Theatre Project

Purpose Artisans played a central role in bringing The Willmar Project to its final stage. As the project’s fiscal sponsor and local community partner, Purpose Artisans supported New York–based Neighborhood Theatre Project and helped connect its work with Willmar residents, artists, community leaders, organizations, and businesses. This included supporting local relationships, cultural performances, outreach, and event coordination.

The original play, Willmar, was developed from more than 150 hours of interviews with over 100 residents. It shares real stories about belonging, racism, faith, immigration, friendship across differences, and the changing community.

After nine years of interviews, workshops, readings, and community input, the project culminated in May 2026 with four gatherings combining local cultural performances, staged readings, shared meals, and facilitated dialogue. Through this partnership, Purpose Artisans helped create opportunities for Willmar residents to hear one another’s stories, build understanding, and imagine a shared future.

Learn more about the The Willmar Project – The Neighborhood Theatre Project