Area Stage Conservatory

Area Stage is an award-winning theatre organization that offers world-class professional productions, a vibrant conservatory program, and opportunities for underserved populations and theatre artists of all abilities. Founded by John and Maria Rodaz in 1989, the 501(C)(3) nonprofit organization began as one of the pioneers of the Miami Beach arts community on Lincoln Road. Since its inception, Area Stage has presented a mix of contemporary and classic plays, world premieres, and immersive theatrical experiences, quickly “changing the perception and standards of what South Florida's theatres can and should be,” according to the Sun-Sentinel, which described the organization as “one of the most influential theatres in the region.” In 2008, Area Stage moved into the beautiful Riviera Theatre in Coral Gables, a dream come true and an opportunity for the company to reinvent itself. With a reimagined mission and vision, the company established a professional-level conservatory program in addition to maintaining a full season of professional productions, concerts, and community events. In 2014, the Inclusion Theatre Project (ITP) was established, a life-changing program for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. In 2020, Area Stage moved to The Shops at Sunset Place. Its current headquarters, built from the ground up for its needs, hosts state-of-the-art dance and voice studios and a black box theatre. With a vision of unceasing growth, Area Stage aspires to remain a key component of South Florida’s artistic and cultural growth now and in the future.