About Us
Alternative Theatre Company Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ artists and providing a home for unheard storytellers and activists. We believe theatre has the power to transform lives and build bridges, and are committed to producing socially-conscious plays by queer playwrights that examine and uplift stories in our communities. By showcasing the diverse experiences of LGBTQ+ people, Alternative Theater Company aims to foster empathy and understanding, and to inspire a more just and equitable world.
In addition to producing live theatre, Alternative Theater Company also offers a variety of community programs, including workshops and classes for LGBTQ+ artists and allies. Alternative Theater Company is committed to representing LGBTQ+ experiences through live theatrical performances, and to providing opportunities for LGBTQ+ people to share their stories and connect with others.
With the world now immersed in visual and interactive media, the performing arts have perhaps never been more relevant in communication. Dramatic productions can powerfully communicate diversity, faith, compassion, understanding and acceptance across barriers of age, race, gender, orientation, culture, language and prejudice in a way few other mediums can.
Theatre not only communicates ideas, but also demonstrates them, touching the audience's mind and heart. That is and will always be our mission.
Founded in 1991 by Joe Marshall in Phoenix, Arizona, the company relocated to New York in 2009.
Joe Marshall, Founder and Artistic Director
Actor, Director, Producer, Playwright
Joe is a proud member of the New York Dramatist Guild. After studying at The American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City, Joe obtained his F.C.C. License in broadcast communication from the Arizona Technical Institute. Joe founded the Alternative Theatre Company while living in Phoenix, where he was also the Director of Children's Programming at Theatre Works, winning five People's Choice awards.
Joe's Off-Broadway plays include THE GAYEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER!, A NIGHT IN VEGAS, A WANING GIBBOUS MOON! and DIRTY SECRETS. A Night in Vegas received multiple AriZoni awards for Best Original Script, Best Overall Production, and Best Director. Throughout his theatre career, Joe has directed and choreographed more than thirty award-winning productions in Arizona, California, New York City, and Long Island.