History

1996

Prime Stage was incorporated as a non-profit 501c3 organization to provide theatrical and educational experiences for families, students, and educators. "A Woman Called Truth" was produced at the former Station Square Playhouse.

Prime Stage moved to LaRoche College in the North Hills where we produced two seasons of literary adaptations and new plays, including the world premiere of "The Music Lesson" by Tammy Ryan which has won national awards and is produced around the country.

1998/1999

Prime Stage moved to Civic Light Opera Academy and produced several regional premieres. Eva Schloss, best friend of Anne Frank, joined us for the performances.

We developed a partnership with the Holocaust Center of Greater Pittsburgh which lasted for several seasons. Prime Stage received recognition as “The best educational program” by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.

At the George White Theatre of Point Park University, Prime Stage produced the world premiere of "Clemente: The Measure of a Man". For this production, we worked with members of Roberto Clemente’s family and continued our relationship with the Pittsburgh Pirates. Prime Stage initiated its "Adopt-a-School Program" for students in Wilkinsburg.

2000

Prime Stage moved to the Hazlett Theater to produce three seasons of literature, including the world premieres "Wade in the Water", "The Josh Gibson Story" and "We Will Remember: A Tribute to Veterans", which is puublished and presented nationally.

Prime Stage adopted “Bringing Literature to Life” to target adolescent literacy, particularly reluctant and struggling readers and their teachers. The GiverPrime Stage received national recognition as the "Outstanding Children’s Theatre Company in the United States" from the American Alliance for Theatre and Education.

Prime Stage initiated its Teen Advisory Board. Teens learn leadership skills as they have a vital voice in the in the selection of projects and productions. They also do community outreach projects.

The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust invited Prime Stage to inaugurate a new theatre facility at 937 Liberty Avenue in the Cultural District and continue "Bringing literature to life".

2005

Prime Stage began its Act 48 Teacher Workshops. We featured Newbery Award Author Lois Lowry at a workshop and reception for the premiere of "The Giver".

The Annual Celebration of Reading" produced in partnership with Tickets for Kids Charities began.

To Kill a Mockingbird2006 - For its 10th anniversary season, Prime Stage returned to the New Hazlett Theater. Mary Badham, Academy Award nominee actress who played Scout in the film of "To Kill a Mockingbird", attended performances and teacher workshops during the production.

2007

Prime Stage Co-Founder and Finance Director, Connie Brinda, was recognized for her contributions to the arts in Western Pennsylvania at the Woman in the Arts Celebration.

Prime Stage recognized Holocaust hidden children survivors with "The Diary of Anne Frank".

2008

Prime Stage produced the world premiere adaptation of "The Westing Game", based on the book by Ellen Raskin. We also held a special event honoring Amy Kellman of the Carnegie Library.

2009

Prime Stage produced the world premiere of The Westing Game, based on the book by Ellen Raskin. We held a special event honoring Amy Kellman of the Carnegie Library.

2010

Prime Stage, with support of local foundations, installed School/Community Reading Centers in two Pittsburgh Public middle schools.

Prime Stage initiated its “Annual Inspiring -Teacher-Inspiring Student” Recognition award and event.

Prime Stage Teen Advisory Board is invited to Harrisburg to present their program that raises awareness of Teen Dating Violence.

2011

Our script of The Westing Game is published by Dramatic Publishing Company.

Prime Stage Teen Advisory Board is invited to present their new play and program that raises awareness of Teen Dating Violence with the YWCA Violence Awareness Week and several communities and organizations for youth.

2013

Produced the second production and regional premiere of "Walk Two Moons" - adapted by Tom Arvetis based on the Newbery Award book by Sharon Creech. Ms. Creech attended opening night and said "I was a thrill to see such an inspired performance by talented and dedicated director, actors and crew. They were so close to what I see in my head. Huzza, huzza."

Prime Stage and its Teen Board receives the Peace Partner Award for its program on Teen Dating Awareness.

2014

Recognized as the Pittsburgh’s “A-List's Best Theatre Group” in 2014.

2017

Awarded as a “Champion of Learning in the Arts” by Consortium for Public Education in 2017.

The world premiere adaptation of "The Perks of being a Wallflower" received the honor of being the Best Production in 2017 by the CityPaper.