Get ready for a thought-provoking and deeply human experience as Theatrikos prepares to stage Rebecca Gilman’s compelling play, Swing State. Directed by AJ Flores, this powerful production promises to resonate with audiences through its exploration of complex themes including what it means to be human, the intricacies of trust, the bonds of family, whether by blood or by choice, and navigating the profound impact of loss.

Swing State tells the story of Peg, a woman who has found solace in the quiet beauty of her prairie land after the loss of her husband. Her solitary life is interrupted by visits from a troubled friend and the mysterious disappearance of her late husband’s belongings. When the authorities are called, a tense chain of events unfolds, forcing everyone to question who they can truly trust. The play delves into the cracks in our communities, revealing how national divisions echo through our most personal relationships.

Currently deep in rehearsals, the cast and crew are working tirelessly to bring Gilman’s nuanced characters and timely story to life. Director AJ Flores shares his insights on the play: “Swing State captures the ache and resilience of rural America in a time of uncertainty. It’s a deeply human story that asks what we owe each other in moments of loss.”

Performances run September 11-21.

Get ready for an exciting evening celebrating the vibrant performing arts scene in Flagstaff! Theatrikos is thrilled to announce a special collaborative event, Flagstaff Takes the Stage, where we’ll be joining forces with three other fantastic local theatre companies to kick off our respective 2026 seasons.

This unique event will bring together Theatrikos, Stargazer Collaborative Theatre, Flagstaff Shakespeare Festival, and NAU Theatre Department for an unforgettable night at the Coconino Center for the Arts on September 13th.

The evening will be structured in three dynamic acts, offering a taste of what each company has in store for their audiences in the upcoming year. Flagstaff Takes the Stage will begin with a celebratory toast by Mayor Becky Daggett and our friends at Creative Flagstaff, setting the stage for an evening of theatrical delights.

Best of all, this exciting event is free and open to the public, offering a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the diverse and talented theatre community right here in Flagstaff. Come and experience the passion and creativity that fuels our local stages as we all embark on our new seasons.

Mark your calendars for September 13th at the Coconino Center for the Arts and join us for Flagstaff Takes the Stage! We can’t wait to share this special evening with you.

We’re thrilled to announce a brand-new season of youth theatre classes starting this fall—and with it, an exciting new chapter in Theatrikos’s long-standing commitment to arts education. Our expanded program means more classes, more creativity, and more opportunities for young people in Flagstaff to build confidence and discover the joy of live theatre.

At the heart of our program are the incredible teaching artists who bring their passion and expertise to every class. This season, we are proud to feature a team of dedicated educators ready to inspire the next generation of performers.

Meet Our Talented Teaching Artists

Leslie Ptak Baker

A true pillar of the Flagstaff performing arts community, Leslie Ptak Baker brings a world of experience to our new Education Studio. An ASU BFA Graduate in Dance, Leslie has performed professionally in New York, Los Angeles, and Japan, and sailed for eight years as an entertainer with Princess Cruises. Locally, she has taught dance for 16 years at FALA and has choreographed countless productions for Theatrikos, Flagstaff Music Theatre, and Stargazer Collaborative. Her classes are infused with a deep knowledge of technique and a philosophy that everyone should dance fearlessly every day! Leslie is teaching:

Theatre Moves (Ages 12-17): Essential dance and movement for actors.

Dancing Through Time (Ages 6-11): A fun journey through dance styles from the past to today.

Let’s Move! (Ages 4-5): A joyful introduction to creative dance and music.

John Propster

With a philosophy of “Improv for Life,” John Propster is dedicated to teaching the fun and freedom of improvisation. Before retiring to Flagstaff, John was a theater teacher and director for 30 years in San Francisco, where he honed his skills with the renowned Bay Area Theater Sports (BATS). Since arriving in Flagstaff, he has been instrumental in building our local improv scene, founding classes for seniors as well as Theatrikos’s own beloved troupe, the UFOs. John’s classes focus on building confidence and creativity in a low-pressure, supportive environment. John is teaching:

Improv Exploration (Ages 11-14): A welcoming introduction to the world of improv.

Newton McDaniel & Molly Parafiniuk

This dynamic team brings a fresh and comprehensive approach to the art of stagecraft. Newton McDaniel is a 2025 NAU Theatre graduate whose creative focus includes special effects makeup, physical movement, and the joyful art of clowning. They are deeply committed to expanding access and inclusion in the arts. Molly Parafiniuk holds a degree in Theatre Arts and is a passionate educator who excels at helping students find their voice. Her student-centered approach creates a safe space for young performers to take creative risks and grow both personally and artistically. Newton and Molly are teaching:

Stage Makeup (Ages 11-14): Learn everything from basic techniques to fantasy and special effects makeup.

Registration is now open, but space is limited! These classes will take place in the Doris Harper-White Playhouse and our brand-new Studio.

Classes begin September 12 and 13.

Ready to challenge your mind and have a lot of fun? Try Improv!, the UFOs (Unexpected Fun Onstage), launches its Fall 2025 session, and you’re invited to join the laughter! Sessions begin Tuesday, August 19th, from 7:00-8:30 PM in the Black Box of the Doris Harper-White Playhouse. No experience is necessary—all levels are welcome in our supportive environment.

You’ll laugh a lot, gain confidence for social and performance settings, and experience the joy of trying something new where the only goal is to have BIG fun.

This class focuses on the fundamentals of improv, emphasizing creativity and collaboration over performance. You will build essential skills like active listening, quick thinking, and storytelling in a supportive, low-pressure environment through engaging games and exercises.

To sign up or for more details, text or call the facilitator, John Propster, at 415-519-0883.

The Grand Canyon Railway will be casting for its magical holiday production, The Polar Express™ Train Ride. They are looking to fill numerous roles for the popular 7-week performance run. This is a paid opportunity, and because The Polar Express™ is a Warner Bros. property, it serves as a wonderful professional credit and reference for any actor’s resume.

In addition to casting performers, representatives from Xanterra and the Grand Canyon Railway will be on-site to recruit for a wide variety of other available positions. If you’re looking for a new opportunity, this is a perfect chance to learn more.

Don’t miss this unique event to connect with a beloved holiday tradition and explore exciting local employment.

August 28, 1:30-4:30PM.