Acme is a youth development organization that produces theatre. Each year we produce a drama in January, a free Comedy-in-the-Park in the spring, and a large summer production in which everyone who wants to participate is cast. We also produce a summer theatre program for youth in grades K-8 and a variety of small workshops and performances. Education, community engagement, personal growth, and skill development are key aspects of the Acme experience.

Acme is led by a team of youth – the Acme Council of Executives (ACE) – who are elected by fellow members each year to manage our company’s theatrical operations, including creating the sets, costumes, props, sound, lights, publicity, and website. All company members are encouraged to participate in both acting and technical production. The split is often equal between participants interested in technical production and performance.

Adults direct Acme’s shows and serve on our non-profit board – the Invisible Council of Elders. The board is composed of alumni, parents, community members, and current company members. The board sets policy and assumes legal and financial responsibility for the company. Acme employs one part-time staff member as Artistic Director who sometimes directs Acme productions and is responsible for mentoring all technical, artistic, and financial components of Acme productions. Acme also hires additional directors and artists to bring their special talents and expertise to the company.

During the pandemic, Acme pivoted to virtual theatre programming, continuing its core mission of youth development and community engagement, while adapting and innovating new technology to theatre-making. Since that time, Acme has returned to producing live plays, staged readings and workshops.