Our Mission
Building Company Theater engages local communities in theatrical processes, workshops, residencies, and performances to enhance the quality of life and appreciation for the art form. The company researches and develops new ways of making theater and presents original works of theater, with a critical eye towards accepted social mores.
Artistic Director,
Stephen Cross
The founding Artistic Director of Building Company Theater, Stephen Cross, came to the Syracuse Community in 2007 to teach at the Syracuse University Drama Department. Originally from Nova Scotia, Canada he was the Founding Artistic Director of the Irondale Ensemble Project Canada, Association from 1990 - 2004. Prior to that he was a member of the Irondale Ensemble Project in New York City.
General Manager,
Katharine Dinneen
Katharine Dinneen serves as the General Manager of Building Company Theater. Prior to her current role, she worked with Building Company as a Production Assistant, Stage Manager, and Intern with a concentration in Marketing and Advertising, as well as General Management.
Company Member,
Laura Bernas
Theater maker, devisor, and actor with over 7 years of professional experience and 22 years of training. A creative goofball with a penchant for magically realistic plays, movement-oriented, devised theater, and fearless acting. Recognized consistently for performance excellence and contributions to success in collaborating with fellow artists.
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Company Member,
Derek Powell
Best known for his work in independent film, live theatre, and voiceover in Central and Upstate NY. He has acted in a number of films with No Evil Entertainment, Red Scream Film Studio, Rebel Echo, and Amanda Entertainment. Professional theatre credits include appearances with Red House Arts Center, The Cherry Arts, Breadcrumbs Productions, and Building Company Theater. His voice can be heard in the audio drama podcasts Forgive Me and Windfall, both distributed over Apple Podcasts and Spotify by Rouge Dialogue Productions.
Company Member
Carolyn chave
An actor and theatre artist with a passion for creation through collaboration, contemporary plays, and reimagined classics. Carolyn began working with Building Company Theater in 2019, following her graduation from University at Buffalo's Theatre Department. Some of her favorite credits include This Is Our Youth (Jessica), The Skriker (Fair Fairy), and The Cherry Orchard (Dunyasha).