Theater Mitu

Theater Mitu is a nonprofit organization based in Brooklyn, New York, with the Employer Identification Number (EIN) 30-539644. Founded in 1997, it is known for its innovative approach to theater, emphasizing experimentation and pushing the boundaries of theatrical forms.

Mission

Driven by a commitment to innovation, Theater Mitu seeks to expand the definition of theater through methodical experimentation. Its work combines acting, performance, theatrical design, multimedia, and interactive technology, investigating trans-global performance, interdisciplinary collaborative models, and other contemporary themes like performativity of non-violence and geopolitics of objects[2][4].

Programs and Activities

The organization offers a variety of programs:

• New Work Program: This program is the core of the company's artistic practice. It involves creating research-driven works of performance that engage audiences in dialogues about socio-political issues. Over 40 productions have been developed under this program, which continues to evolve with new projects and touring works[3].

• Expansion Works: Designed to cultivate artistic leadership and interdisciplinarity, this program involves developing and presenting live performances at MITU580, their multi-use art space. It intersects theater with other disciplines such as dance, film, sculpture, musical composition, and interactive technology[3].

• Artists-at-Home Program: This initiative aims to reduce the burden of rehearsal and production space costs for Brooklyn-based artists. It provides subsidized access to rehearsal, performance space, and equipment at MITU580[3].

• Hybrid Arts Lab: A fellowship program focused on supporting trans, non-binary, and female-identifying artists of color working at the intersection of performance and technology. Fellows receive mentorship, resources, and space to develop their work[5].

• Education Initiatives: Theater Mitu offers rigorous physical training combined with intellectual investigation, guided by the company's WHOLE THEATER methodology. This approach engages artists in questioning and innovating theater and art-making practices, drawing from global performance traditions[3].

Leadership and Finances

The organization is led by Founding Artistic Director Rubén Polendo, who is also the Chair of Tisch Undergraduate Drama at New York University[2]. As of recent financial reports, Theater Mitu's revenue primarily comes from contributions, with significant funding from various arts organizations and government agencies[1][2].

In fiscal year 2023, Theater Mitu reported revenues of approximately $230,000, with total assets valued at nearly $500,000[1]. The organization relies heavily on donations, with contributions covering about 70% of its program costs[5].

International and National Presence

Theater Mitu has gained recognition for its work both nationally and internationally. Its productions have been presented at esteemed venues like The Public Theater, Lincoln Center, and The Kennedy Center in the United States, as well as abroad in countries such as Egypt, Mexico, Poland, and Thailand[2]. The company also engages in extensive international research and training initiatives, fostering collaborations with global artists[2].