Theatre Gigante Inc

Theatre Gigante Inc is a nonprofit performing arts organization based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, dedicated to the creation and presentation of performance work that integrates theater, dance, text, and music. Founded with the mission to produce “the theater of big ideas,” the company is known for its distinctive approach to theater that emphasizes collaborative artistic productions which engage both artists and audiences in transformative dialogues[1][3][4].

History and Mission

Since its establishment, Theatre Gigante has developed and staged numerous original productions and adaptations that span a wide range of themes and styles. The organization seeks to create self-contained theatrical realities that confront broad human experiences such as birth, death, and everything in between, often presented in roughly one-hour performances. The company has been recognized in Milwaukee for producing work considered unique and vital to the local theater scene[1][4].

Artistic Direction

Mark Anderson, Co-Artistic Director, is a prominent figure in the company and Milwaukee’s performing arts community. An accomplished monologist, playwright, and interdisciplinary artist, Anderson has collaborated with Theatre Gigante founder Isabelle Kralj since 1996 to create over twenty original productions. Some notable works include The Beggar’s Opera, The Perfect Candidate, Man in a Magic Square, and Antigone. Anderson’s artistic contributions extend beyond Theatre Gigante through collaborations with other local performing groups such as Present Music and Renaissance Theaterworks, as well as former associations with Theatre X[5].

Funding and Recognition

As a nonprofit organization, Theatre Gigante receives funding and support from various arts and civic sources, including the Wisconsin Arts Board (with funds from the State of Wisconsin), the National Endowment for the Arts, Milwaukee County CAMPAC, and private donors. It has earned critical acclaim in Milwaukee media, praised for its high-quality and innovative theatrical productions that stand out in the regional arts landscape[1].

Financials

In 2024, Theatre Gigante reported revenue of approximately $83,800 and expenses amounting to $92,300, with total assets valued at $48,400 and no liabilities, reflecting its ongoing efforts to sustain its artistic mission within a nonprofit framework[2].

Legacy and Impact

Theatre Gigante remains a significant contributor to Milwaukee’s cultural fabric, offering theater experiences that challenge audiences while fostering artistic collaboration. Its commitment to integrating multiple artistic disciplines and sustaining original theatrical work helps maintain its position as a key institution in the regional arts community[1][3].

Note: This article is based on publicly available information as of April 2025.