Second Stage Theater

== Second Stage Theater == '''Second Stage Theater''' is an American theater company founded in 1979 with a mission to produce and promote contemporary American plays and musicals. It is notable for its dedication to staging works solely from living American writers, making it the only Broadway company with such an exclusive focus. Over the past 45 years, Second Stage has developed and presented over 200 productions, earning a reputation for daring and provocative theatrical experiences. === History === Second Stage Theater began with the goal of giving contemporary American plays a second staging, allowing them to reach a broader audience. The company quickly expanded its mission to include the production of new plays from a growing body of writers. Over the years, Second Stage has embraced a variety of formats including genre-bending solo performances, cutting-edge events, explosive new musicals, and premieres by some of America's most respected playwrights. The theater has been instrumental in supporting both established and emerging artists through commissions, artist residencies, and programs like 2ST UPTOWN and the Van Lier Fellowship, which foster the development of young talents and directors. Second Stage also invests in building future audiences by educating young people about contemporary theater and encouraging their engagement with New York City's cultural life. Under the artistic direction of co-founder Carole Rothman, Second Stage has produced a diverse array of premieres and new interpretations of contemporary American theater. Its productions have been recognized with numerous awards, including multiple Tony Awards for works such as "Dear Evan Hansen," "Next to Normal," and "Take Me Out." === Venues === In 1999, Second Stage opened a 296-seat theater at 43rd Street, designed by Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas. This venue was named The Tony Kiser Theater in 2011, after the company's long-time Chairman of the Board, Anthony C.M. Kiser. The Second Stage Theater Uptown series, launched in 2002, showcases the work of emerging artists at the McGinn/Cazale Theater on 76th Street. In a significant expansion, Second Stage purchased the historic Helen Hayes Theater on Broadway in 2015, becoming the only theater company on Broadway dedicated exclusively to the development and production of works by living American playwrights. === Recognition === Second Stage Theater's contributions to the arts have been widely recognized with more than 170 citations, including Tony Awards, Obie Awards, Outer Critics Circle Awards, Drama Desk Awards, Theatre World Awards, Lucille Lortel Awards, and AUDELCO Awards. These accolades reflect the theater's impact on American theater and its success in launching the careers of numerous artists who continue to shape the industry.