As the story goes, greatness comes from small beginnings. Based on a dream and a passion for theater, Stephanie Dennehy, along with Anne Clark, Courtney Gray, and Melissa Toth, have launched the Cutting Edge Theatre Company.
Originally started in Ann Arbor, Dennehy moved the company to Sylvania, explaining that “Sylvania is just a really neat town with a homey feeling, and support and encouragement for the arts. I think Cutting Edge Theatre Company could add so much to a town like that.”
A personal and professional touch
Though they’re looking forward to performances in Sylvania, they have already made a name for themselves in Ann Arbor. Focused on creating a personal experience for each viewer, their shows take on a unique perspective.
“There’s not a lot of focus on costuming or set design,” said Dennehy. “There’s more focus on the acting and actors. We have a smaller, intimate theater that seats 100 people, with a cast of 10 people or less.”
The Company also wants to share their love of theater, arranging performances targeted at the youth and deaf communities, with small classes and workshops to make viewers and participants feel comfortable.
“We’ve been working for a few months with Interlink, a Toledo Deaf Service Center, to create workshops for deaf people to enjoy and experience theater,” said Dennehy.
Building a theater family
Including the audience through proximity to the stage, the Company has a ‘big family’ feel. “There’s no one who isn’t important. All of our actors, actresses, and members bring different things to the table,” said Dennehy proudly. “We’ve been a nonprofit for 5 months and support ourselves through fundraisers.”
Taking over Toledo
Since the Company is supported by donations and investors, Cutting Edge is looking for opportunities to showcase their love of theater while raising money for their next production. Costs can approach $5,000 to produce a show. Cutting Edge makes appearances at Manhattan’s in Toledo and First Friday art events in Sylvania. Their upcoming event, the July 16th Independence Day Extravaganza, is “all about meeting people. We’re announcing our new season schedule at the silent auction, and our acts and performances include myself and my husband, Joe Dennehy, Courtney Gray, Michael Spierman, Emma Koralewski, and Derrick Jordan,” said Dennehy.
“We are so thankful that Sarah Spierman, our Secretary and owner of Dermatology Associates, is letting us use her office space free of charge for the event.”
This fundraiser evening will include drinks and food, performances, a silent auction, and a special Friend of the Arts award created by a local artist, to be awarded annually.
Cutting Edge Theatre Company’s Independence Day Extravaganza
6pm | Saturday, July 16
$25/at the door | $50/for couples
Dermatology Associates | 2nd floor | 12780 Roachton Rd. #1 | Perrysburg
