On Sept. 18, 2025, Cincinnati Shakespeare Company (CSC) announced a $1 million bequest from Virginia “Jinny” Browning, a longtime friend, patron and supporter. It is the largest bequest ever made to the company, which plans to use it to strengthen programming, operations and endowment.
Browning’s relationship with CSC began in 2012, when she saw Artistic Director Brian Isaac Phillips perform in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice. From that night on, she was not only a faithful audience member but also a dedicated donor. Her generosity touched nearly every aspect of CSC. She provided annual support for operations and invested in the campaign to build the Otto M. Budig Theater.
Phillips said, “Our dear friend Jinny was incredibly generous to CSC in so many ways. Her time, her expertise and her passion helped make CSC a better place. I am humbled that she chose to remember CSC in this meaningful way. She will always be a part of who we are and what we do.”
Browning was more than a patron — she was considered family by the company. Sara Clark, actor and director of development, visited her at her home in Maysville, Kentucky. Together with a colleague, Clark performed the famous Romeo and Juliet balcony scene in Jinny’s living room. “That’s the kind of supporter Jinny was,” Clark recalled. “She welcomed us into her home, celebrated the art we created, and made sure it would thrive long into the future. Her bequest is an act of love as much as generosity.”
This gift also enhances CSC’s Planned Giving program, which invites supporters to make a lasting difference by including the company in their estate plans. Potential donors inspired by Browning’s example can learn more at cincyshakes.com/Legacy or by reaching out directly to Clark at sara.clark@cincyshakes.com for a confidential conversation.
“We hope Jinny’s generosity encourages others to imagine the legacy they can leave,” Clark added. “Her gift ensures that CSC will continue bringing people together for Shakespeare and the classics for years to come.”