Business Details
10 Years
experience
Community Theater & Arts Programs in Ambridge PA
Iron Horse Theatre Company is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching cultural life in southwestern Pennsylvania's 'rust belt' region. Founded in 2016, we provide accessible theater experiences through professional productions, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives. Our board of directors brings decades of combined experience in theater arts, education, and nonprofit management to create impactful programming. We specialize in producing thought-provoking plays, musicals, and workshops that celebrate local history while addressing contemporary social issues. With a commitment to artistic excellence and community service, we operate a 62-seat theater space that also serves as a venue for art exhibitions, music performances, and educational workshops.Our productions have included award-winning works like 'Rent' and original productions such as '12:52, The Mike Webster Story,' which premiered in 2021. Through after-school drama programs and writing workshops, we nurture emerging talent while maintaining rigorous safety standards and ethical practices. Our transparent operations and community-focused approach have earned support from local sponsors and cultural organizations.
Services
Theatrical Productions
After School Drama Club
Writing Workshops
Audition Opportunities
Community Events
Details
- Year established: 2016
Highlights and features
- 25+ years of theater experience from founding artistic director
- Community-focused productions addressing contemporary social issues
- Accessible theater space with educational programming for all ages
- Award-winning productions including 'Rent' and original works
- Transparent operations with documented community impact
Associations and certifications
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
Services
Theatrical Productions
Professional theater productions featuring local talent in a 62-seat intimate venue. Our season includes contemporary musicals, classic plays, and original works addressing social issues. Audiences experience high-quality performances while engaging with relevant community themes.
After School Drama Club
Free educational program for grades 5-8 teaching acting, singing, and dance skills through musical theater production. Students rehearse weekly and perform three weekend shows, learning technical theater aspects and performance techniques in a supportive environment.
Writing Workshops
Six-week writing and storytelling courses led by professional instructors. Participants develop writing habits, learn editing techniques, and present original work at live storytelling events. Limited to 10 participants for personalized instruction.
Community Theater Space
Multi-use theater space available for performances, art exhibitions, and community events. Features include stage lighting, sound system, concessions area, and flexible seating. Hosts cultural programs, educational workshops, and special events throughout the year.
Volunteer Opportunities
Various volunteer positions supporting theater operations, production crews, and event staffing. Opportunities available for technical theater, front-of-house operations, and educational program assistance. Training provided for all volunteer roles.
People
London Cain
President and Artistic Director
Founder with 25+ years theater experience, having written, produced, or directed over 20 productions including '12:52 The Mike Webster Story' and 'The Golden Rose'. Leads artistic vision and production planning.
Catherine Hayashi
Vice President
Theater professional with experience from age 8, holding theater arts degree. Focuses on community engagement and artistic development. Former Ole Miss scholarship recipient brings professional expertise to board leadership.
Amy Bashnagel
Treasurer
Environmental science educator with theater background, combining organizational skills with artistic passion. Oversees financial operations while maintaining commitment to community theater accessibility and educational programming.
Sarah Brunner
Board Member
Theater and film professional with social media management degree. Focuses on digital outreach and youth education programs. Brings nonprofit leadership experience and childcare expertise to community engagement initiatives.
Candace Shaffer
Board Member
Educator and theater professional managing social media outreach. Combines fifth-grade teaching experience with arts administration, focusing on youth development and community visibility through digital platforms.
Questions
What types of productions does Iron Horse Theatre Company Company produce?
We produce contemporary musicals, classic plays, original works, and community-focused productions addressing social issues. Our season includes mainstage shows, youth theater, and special events.
How can I participate in theater productions?
Auditions are held annually for volunteer roles in our productions. No experience is required. Check our website for audition dates and preparation requirements for plays and musicals.
Are there educational programs for children?
Yes! Our After School Drama Club (grades 5-8) teaches theater skills through musical production. We also offer summer camps and writing workshops for youth development.
How can I support the theater's operations?
Support through ticket purchases, season passes, donations, or volunteering. Sponsorship opportunities available at multiple levels with marketing benefits for local businesses.
What accessibility features are available?
Our theater includes wheelchair-accessible seating and community-focused pricing. Educational programs are offered free of charge through sponsor support, ensuring accessibility for all community members.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Michael Sturm
Jan 07, 2022
Report
New years eve. Went to see the band that was performing. The theater was very nice. Staff was friendly.
Shooter
Oct 05, 2021
Report
Saw the show about Mike Webster 12:52 and thoroughly enjoyed it. Will be returning for new performances. My wife, who is not an avid football fan, also enjoyed the show even though it is sad story although it also had some bright spots, Mikes friends.
Finley Egal
May 30, 2021
Report
Very homey, great environment. Awesome directors. Our middle school drama club meets here because the program was cut in our school building. The Iron Horse Theater Company is the reason we can still do what we love.
Dave Zellen
Jun 27, 2019
Report
Four friends and I went here to see their holiday play Greetings. The play was very good, both humerus and with a good message. The acting was exceptionally well done. The theater is small, with seating for around 60 people. Tickets were only $15.
Kenny Fedorko
Jan 14, 2019
Report
I taught a class with Iron Horse in late July 2018 and currently attend the Asolo conservatory in Sarasota Florida. The artistic director, London Cain, is a motivated, determined and creative leader who cares about the community. You could not ask for a better theater for a town like Ambridge. Excited to watch the future unfold for this small but mighty company! Bravo!
John Steadman
Aug 07, 2018
Report
Amazing place. Really well decorated, fantastic acting performance. We are so lucky to have such a resource in Ambridge. We had a marvelous evening!
