2010 Theatre Recipient

Bill Talen

Performer, Writer, Activist

I was arrested reciting the First Amendment in Union Square Park and understood I had no choice about my work anymore, that being an artist meant rising to the radical promise of the First Amendment itself. The Freedom there is our great Commons - and now I spend my time defending it, expanding it.

As "Reverend Billy," performer, writer and activist, Bill Talen creates guerilla theatre for the 21st century. Using the city as his stage, and a gospel choir as his chorus, the creator of The Church of Life After Shopping champions post-consumerism, environmental engagement and the individual voice within community. Employing radio broadcast, film, books, and social media, Talen cultivates wildness wherever he can.