2025 State of the Theatre Update

A Look Back at Our 2024–2025 Season

The Company OnStage 2024–2025 season was one to remember — a vibrant mix of bold new productions in both our Evening Series and Young Audience Series. From laugh-out-loud comedies like A Nice Family Christmas to thought-provoking dramas like N by Adrienne Pender, our Evening Series delivered entertainment that was both moving and meaningful, tackling themes such as ethics, family dynamics, and racism.

Our Young Audience Series brought fresh energy with productions never before seen on the COS stage. Audiences were delighted by imaginative retellings like Dorothy Meets Alice and The True Stories of the So-Called Big Bad Wolves — playful, smart takes that captured the hearts of all ages.

This season also marked a wonderful blend of long-time COS actors and volunteers alongside enthusiastic new faces. Two volunteers, in particular, went above and beyond, and we were thrilled to honor them with the Beth Webster Volunteer of the Year Award.

Nicole Zodrow first joined us as an actor in the 2023–2024 season, but this year she became a powerhouse of support behind the scenes. From work calls to marketing to special events — and performing in both of our holiday productions — Nicole consistently stepped up whenever and wherever help was needed.

Andrew Trott came to us through our very first Production Volunteer Open House last June, expressing interest in set design and construction. His passion and skill quickly made him indispensable. By mid-season, it was clear he was already doing the work of a Technical Director, so we made it official — and we’re thrilled he accepted the role.

To round out our production leadership, we welcomed Makaylee “Mak” Secrest as our new Artistic Director at the end of June. Mak brings a thoughtful and inspiring vision that celebrates our legacy while continuing to move us forward. We’re excited for what’s ahead — stay tuned!

On the administrative side, we continued building momentum with a renewed focus on the “business” of theater. At our recent Season Announcement Gala, we proudly introduced four new board members who will help drive our fundraising, strategy, education, and community outreach efforts: Thomas Berkes, Allison Hall, Ashley Shaunte, and Rency Shah. We’re excited to welcome them to the COS family.

A Call to Action

As we celebrate our artistic achievements, we must also be honest: to keep the arts accessible and affordable, we need your support. Ticket prices have remained steady, but production costs continue to rise. While we’re incredibly grateful for the generous backing of our corporate sponsors, we are still only halfway to our annual fundraising goal of $75,000.

We know that everyone has a different capacity to give. Please consider what you might be able to do. Every donation counts — even $10 per month makes a tangible difference. Many of our donor levels include perks like season passes, so we invite you to visit www.companyonstage.org and explore how you can help sustain live, local theater.

Thank You

Above and beyond all, to our patrons, donors, volunteers, actors, and fans — thank you. Your belief in what we do makes it all possible.
We can’t wait to share the 2025–2026 season with you, beginning with Blithe Spirit and Kid Frankenstein. Tickets are already on sale — grab yours today, and we’ll see you at the theater!

Sincerely,

Kathryn Noser

Board President