Manhattan Theatre Mission was founded in January of 2011 by a group of recent college graduates who had somehow made it to the big apple to pursue careers in the arts, or arts related fields. We started our company because we wanted to produce quality theatre in Manhattan, while maintaining the luxuries that all of us secretly love about community theatre. Many of us wanted to be able to audition/direct/choreograph/etc., but had also pursued other careers that kept us occupied during the days. MTM is a "have your cake and eat it too" type of place. But we don't let our artistry suffer because we've chosen a 9-5 (or 10-6 as is more typical of our work habits) type of job.
Founder, Katy Baker moved to NYC in 2009 after graduating with a B.F.A. in Acting from Texas Tech University. She did not move to New York with the intention of becoming a producer. In fact, she always knew she wanted to be a theatre teacher of some sort. But she wanted to gain more experience in the field and train with the absolute best before becoming an influence in the lives of young aspiring artists. She did just that. After performing around the city, studying improv at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre and networking with other young producers, she decided she'd like to try it herself. Over the last few years, the administrative board has evolved and each of its members have gained a wealth of knowledge and experience which has only made our programming better.
MTM spent a lot of time deciding exactly what their angle would be, but when it came down to it, the original idea - to create a hub where artists could be nurtured, network, and grow in whatever way they need to - became the overall expectation for the organization's endeavors.
Members of Manhattan Theatre Mission's board as well as the actors who have performed in our previous productions have all been able to utilize MTM as a spring board to propel themselves in the direction of their own career goals. MTM hosts actors and board members who are secure and happy in their own professions and participate as a hobby, but we have also worked with actors who have gone on to perform on Broadway, national tours and international tours. Additionally, our administrative board members are all working professionally at organizations which benefit the arts and arts education nationwide.
Our previous projects have included multiple cabarets to benefit charities as well as youth programs, contributions to the Broadway production of Godspell, producing original new works, and participating in the New York International Fringe Festival. One of our most rewarding projects has been our New Musicals Festival. This will be our second year to host this festival and we were truly blown away with the submissions this year! This year's festival will take place on Saturday, December 7th at the Times Square Arts Center. There will be 20 minute excerpts from each of the four finalists presented in a staged reading format. The event begins at 4pm with an awards ceremony at 6pm AND an exciting cocktail party to follow! The winning show of the Festival of New Musicals will be produced by MTM during our 2014-2015 season.
We are making big plans for Manhattan Theatre Mission and we hope that you'll be along for the ride!
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