About Vital Theatre Company

VITAL THEATRE COMPANY is a community of artists who believe that a shared theatrical experience profoundly affects people's lives. We create stories that challenge our audience to ask questions, make discoveries and engage in dialogue.

If one adult is inspired,
if one child's imagination is awakened,
if one student is empowered,
our theatre is important and VITAL.

A Brief History of Vital Theatre

Vital was founded in March of 1999 with the goal of creating a safe home to nurture emerging theatre artists — and that vision has blossomed.

What started as a small theatre company has grown into one of NYC's premier destinations for children's entertainment, with long-running hits like Pinkalicious The Musical, Fancy Nancy, and numerous award-winning original works.

For over 25 years, we have been dedicated to producing entertaining and educational theatre for young audiences. From fairy tales and fables to contemporary musicals, we've presented over 100 original productions that have delighted children and families across New York City and beyond.

View our complete production history →

Vital Theatre Company production photo

Awards & Recognition

2012 OffBroadway Alliance Awards - Best Family Show: StinkyKids The Musical
American Theatre Wing Award - Continued Commitment to Excellence in Theatre (2006, 2007)
Off-Off Broadway Review (OOBR) Awards for Excellence - The King of Mackie Street, Funny, Shakin' the Mess Outta Misery, Idiot's Delight, The Ballad of Irving the Frog
Theatre Company of the Year - nytheatre.com for Vital Children's Theatre Company Season
All Stars Project Inc. - Community Recognition Award to Vital Children's Theatre
New York IT Awards & Audelco Award - Nomination for Outstanding Production and Best Ensemble (Shakin' the Mess Outta Misery)

Leadership

Producing Artistic Director

Stephen Sunderlin

Founding Members

Stephen Sunderlin, Michael Schloegl, Scott C. Embler, Laura M. Stevens

Board of Directors

Deborah Adelman, President
Natalie Riccio, Vice President
Louis Salamone, Secretary/Treasurer
Stephen Sunderlin, Board Member

Get Involved

Interested in becoming a Board Member or Parent Ambassador?

Contact Us

Support Our Mission

Your contribution helps us continue creating meaningful theatrical experiences for children and families.

Every donation supports our artists, productions, and educational programs.

Donate Today
Vital Theatre Company audience enjoying a performance

Our Commitment

At Vital Theatre Company, we believe theatre has the power to transform lives. Our productions are designed specifically for young audiences, with age-appropriate content, engaging stories, and the perfect runtime for children's attention spans.

Every show we produce is crafted with care to spark imagination, foster creativity, and create lasting memories for families. Whether it's a child's first theatre experience or a beloved annual tradition, we strive to make every visit special.

We are grateful to our audiences, donors, and community partners who make our work possible.

Contact Us

By Phone

(212) 799-3753

Location

Vital Theatre Company
New York, NY
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