Audience Learning

LEARN WITH US

Enhance your enjoyment of live theatre by attending one of our many lecture offerings throughout the season.

The artistic appetizer.

Hosted by The Phoenix Theatre Company’s Resident Dramaturge, Michelle Chin, The Artistic Appetizer is a captivating pre-show experience that peels back the curtain on a play’s origins. Like a tantalizing amuse-bouche, this event whets the appetite for a dramatic main course, offering a delectable preview of the theatrical feast that awaits. Guests are invited to savor the creative process, sampling the rich flavors of the playwright’s vision, the director’s interpretation, and the artists’ collective ingenuity. Complete with a complimentary glass of house wine, Artistic Appetizer is perfect for anyone eager to transform their understanding of theatre and appreciate the artistry before the presented show starts. Guests are also invited to indulge in the culinary delights of our ArtBar+Bistro, where you can order a variety of bites and beverages to accompany this theatrical aperitif. Immerse yourself in backstage delicacies, taste the spices of theatrical craftsmanship, and let The Artistic Appetizer prime your senses for an artistic banquet of the soul.

Waitress Artistic Appetizer

October 11, 2024 | 6 pm – 6:45 pm

Hardes Theatre 

Jersey Boys Artistic Appetizer 

March 28, 2025 | 6 pm – 6:45 pm

Hardes Theatre

Into the Woods Artistic Appetizer 

May 30, 2025 | 6 pm – 6:45 pm

Hardes Theatre

Note: Times and dates subject to change.

Artistic Director’s Series. 

Exclusively for season ticket holders and donors who contribute $250+ annually, the Artistic Director’s Series is a Saturday morning program offering demonstrations and lectures on various behind-the-scenes topics such as directing, costuming, scenic design, dialects, and dance.

We Ain’t Ever Gonna Break Up: The Hymon and Parfunkel Musical Artistic Director’s Series

September 7, 2024 | 11 am – 12 pm

Hardes Theatre

Churchill Artistic Director’s Series 

February 22, 2025 | 11am – 12 pm

Location: TBD

Let the Good Times Roll: A New Orleans Gumbo Artistic Director’s Series 

August 9, 2025 | 11 am – 12 pm

Location: TBD

Note: Times and dates subject to change.

Meet Your Theatre.

Get ready for Meet Your Theatre, an exclusive series about the inner workings of The Phoenix Theatre Company. This behind-the-scenes journey offers a glimpse into the magic and mechanics of our theatre—from the intricacies of production to the essentials of administration and business. Launching in our 2024/2025 Season, this series will uncover how our shows are crafted and offer insights into the many ways you can make a lasting impact through sponsorship and donating. Keep an eye out for your invitation to join meaningful discussions with key team members and explore unique engagement opportunities. Meet Your Theatre isn’t just an introduction—it’s an invitation to build the future of The Phoenix Theatre Company together.

Meet Your Theatre: New Theatre Q&A

January 11, 2025

Hormel Theatre | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm 

Meet Your Theatre: Season Kick-Off Event

March 3, 2025

Details TBA

Subscriber Tours. 

Led by our Patron Concierge Managers throughout the season, this special offering gives subscribers an inside look at all backstage areas of The Phoenix Theatre Company, including the scene, paint, and costume shops that bring our spectacular shows to life. As a Season Ticket Holder, you will receive an invitation to sign up for a space on our upcoming tours via email.