Recognized as a national leader in the Theater for Young Audiences (TYA) field, First Stage is a driving force behind the creation of the best and most innovative plays for family audiences, theater training programs for young people, and education initiatives for our schools and our community. Since 1987, First Stage has presented more than 200 professional theater productions chosen for their artistic excellence, social significance, educational content, and the potential to spark conversations at home and in the classroom. As one of the few TYA theaters in the nation committed to age-appropriate casting, First Stage creates and commissions new works that demonstrate an inherent respect for the thoughts and ideas of young people. Throughout our history, First Stage has presented more than 60 world premiere productions that address important subject matters relevant to today’s youth, utilize celebrated literary works, and feature local themes and stories as inspiration.

First Stage’s achievements onstage are paralleled by our nationally acclaimed Theater Academy classes and in-school Theater in Education programs. Through our commitment to the education and personal development of youth, First Stage teaches literacy skills, improves Emotional Intelligence, and instills 21st century workforce skills while nurturing each young person’s unique creativity and self-expression. By participating in our programs, today’s students are prepared with the personal and professional skills necessary to achieve success in school, establish fulfilling careers as adults, and help our community continue to grow as a dynamic business and cultural center.  


Performing Arts

First Stage

Daniel Grambow

Jeff Frank

Zoe Osk

Thomas Bastardo

Steve Siegel

Silver Anderson

Shea Hittman

Samantha Montgomery

Rafael Vasquez

Rachael Sieminski

Olivia Bastien

Nikki Kulas

Natasha Cox

Michelle Verbos

Matt Whitmore

Matt Daniels

Marion Frank

Maddy Corson

Lyndsey Kuhlmann

Louisa Schmidt

Leann Vance

Leah Dueno

Lead Carpenter

Lavanyaa Surendar

Krista Laszewski

Kerri Warner

Kelly L. Schwartz

Kelly Gerlach

Kathy Doroteo - Tadych

Kathryn Mooers

Kate Schmitt

J.t. Backes

Josie Van Slyke

Josh Schmidt

Jim Wnuczek

Jenny Thurnau

Jennifer Martin - Nash

Elizabeth Anderson

Deck Carpenter

Cynthia Nord

Clare Kuhnen

Christopher Orth

Caitlyn Nettesheim

Brinn Hill

Brian Heggeland

Ash Friedenberg

Anna Janicek

Annabelle Leibering

Andrea Lara

Andrea Klohn

Alexander Hamilton

Aidan Black

Abi Michalski

The Creative Team at First Stage is responsible for conceptualizing and bringing to life the artistic vision of the theater's productions. Led by Artistic Director Jeff Frank, this team includes Sound Designers, Playwrights, Directors, Choreographers, and Teaching Artists who collaborate to create innovative and educational theater experiences for young audiences. They develop new works, design soundscapes, coordinate choreography, and provide theater training, ensuring that each production and program resonates with both its young participants and family audiences.

Creative Team

Production Team

Creative Team

About

Team members

Other teams at First Stage

Production Team