ABOUT LEADER THEATRE

Leader Theatre was created in 2022 shortly after Taylor and Austin moved back to the westside of Michigan and were quickly overwhelmed (in the best way) with the seemingly endless options for live theatre. It was challenging to keep track of which shows were happening where, so Taylor started researching and adding them into a digital calendar. She quickly realized that individuals in the community may also benefit from having all of the theatre options listed in one place. This inspired Taylor to create a social media presence as a place to be creative and share theatrical opportunities.

Today Taylor and Austin create all kinds of theatrical content including behind the scenes looks at themed costume creations, skits, performance reviews (theatrical thoughts) and so much more! The Leader’s have found their perfect role supporting performing arts programs, highlighting accessibility, opportunities, encouraging and applauding individuals, and of course having fun creating their own theatrics along the way!

“THE MOM & DAD OF LOCAL THEATRE”

Since 2022 Leader Theatre has…

  • Attended over 100 performances

  • Dedicated 25+ hours towards continued learning

  • Attended theatrical productions in 5 different states

  • Increased the Leader Theatre social community by over 500%

  • Spent countless hours researching show seasons and sharing opportunities!

Personally invested over $4k through performance tickets, sponsorships and donations.

Performances Attended by Leader Theatre Since 2022

Leader Theatre supports all levels of Theatre from Local to Broadway!

SUPPORT LEADER THEATRE

Your support means that Leader Theatre can continue to grow and cultivate encouraging, supportive, and inclusive theatre communities through opportunity and resource sharing!

Donate at least $10.00 and we’ll send you a Leader Theatre sticker!

Taylor Leader Spike Tape
Theatre is the ultimate creative art form that combines creativity and talents from across a wide variety of skill sets. Everyone involved brings something to the story being told, and not one performance is exactly the same, and that’s the magic of live theatre.
— Taylor Leader
Austin Leader Spike Tape
Theatre is a place of exploration, creativity, and analysis. The beauty of the art is that everyone has an interpretation. Sometimes the interpretation can be completely different than another. This teaches us about collaboration as well as mindfulness, that it’s okay to be different and express our art the way we want.
— Austin Leader

MORE ABOUT THE LEADERS

TAYLOR LEADER

It is Taylor’s passion to encourage and share opportunities for individuals to explore their artistic interests beyond the responsibilities of the 9-5 grind. Her enthusiasm comes from personal experience of initially following a socially expected life trajectory. Only to discover that we in fact have the power to create our own narratives on the journey to our desired destination. It is Taylor’s core belief that the arts hold the power to positively change lives, increasing self-expression, purpose, and personal growth.

For the past seven years, Taylor has served as a consistent volunteer in middle and high school theatre programs. Her commitment extended beyond the stage lights, encompassing a spectrum of essential roles within theatre production. Taylor’s creative contributions have included crafting props and costume pieces, building and decorating sets, advertising, and ticket sales.

Taylor has combined her experience and education to create Leader Theatre. Taylor manages Leader Theatre behind the scenes including planning, researching, editing, and finding theatrical justifications to thrift, craft, and diy projects.

AUSTIN LEADER

Austin has been a public school teacher and mentor since 2015 after receiving his degree from Eastern Michigan University. Prior to his educational career, he was an enthusiastic participant in his high school theatre program and also performed at the community level. As a high school teacher, Austin promotes a love for theater and communications. His dynamic approach to teaching creates an atmosphere where students are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, create characters, and build confidence in public speaking. 

Beyond his role as an educator, Austin has directed eleven shows and has gained experiences from a wide variety of theatrical endeavors. Some of these roles have included director, producer, set designer and builder, lighting designer, costume designer, and box office coordinator. 

Austin channels his educational and directing background to provide artistic and technical skills to the Leader Theatre team. Austin assists with research, data collection, keeps us all laughing, and is a constant support to Taylor, reminding her that it’s usually not that serious.

  • "Taylor and Austin approach live performances, events, and theatre education with wholesome joy and energy that is simply unmatched. Partnering with Leader Theatre has met every expectation. We're so lucky to have their kind of advocacy in our West Michigan theatre community."

    NODDEA | GRAND RAPIDS CIVIC THEATRE

  • “Ya’ll are the coolest theater parents ever”

    KELLER VOICE STUDIO

  • “You are such wonderful creators thank you [for] always keeping theater fun and validated"

    ANNA G

  • “We appreciate the time and energy you put into spreading the word about all of the fantastic art in GR and West Michigan!”

    ACTORS’ THEATRE GRAND RAPIDS

  • “Hey Leader Theatre! Thank you SO MUCH for all you've done for the local West Michigan theatre scene this year-we really appreciate you!”

    CALVIN THEATRE COMPANY

  • "Love what you’re doing! Thanks for the shoutouts!"

    AMBER | CENTRAL PARK PLAYERS

Taylor and Austin LOVE to spotlight theatrical performances and art events in fun and creative ways! Build excitement for your upcoming performance or event by partnering with the Leader Theatre Hype Team!