The Studio Theatre began in 1978 as a collaboration between Artistic Director Joy Zinoman and Designer Russell Metheny with support of arts advocate Virginia Crawford. Prior to the beginning of TST, Metheny and Zinoman had worked together on successful productions for Washingtons West End Theatre. The Studio Theatre strives to produce plays that focus on interaction between actor and audience and thus has used intimate performance spaces since its founding. In the late 1980s two more production divisions were introduced: The Studio 2ndStage and Special Events. As additions to The Studio Theatres subscription season, Special Events showcases works by performing artists without other performance opportunities in D.C. while The Studio 2ndStage produces plays which often push the boundaries of more conservative theater. In 1992, the Studio launched its Campaign to Secure the Future, an ambitious 3.5 million dollar undertaking to expand the physical space of the theatre and contribute to the revitalization of the 14th Street corridor. This successful project added two stages, numerous classrooms, and confirmed the ongoing expansion of the Studio Theatres impact. Further renovations were completed between 2002 and 2006 to update the building and improve accessibility and technological aspects of the building. Today, the Studio Theatre maintains an active relationship with the 14th street community and offers many free and affordable options for low income residents as well as partnerships with various community and youth organizations.
From the guide to the Studio Theatre Archives, The, 1975-2010, 1975-2010, (Special Collections in Performing Arts)
