History Overview
REFLECTIONS
BY BARBARA LEIGH
“One of our first shows was about how people could transform their own neighborhood. “The Neighborhood” sought to help prevent the destruction of Riverwest and commercial redevelopment of Locust Street in 1974.
“From the beginning, we were committed to paying our artists. Our strategy was to partner with others . . . by doing that, we were able to find sources of income, research the issues, develop stories, and cultivate audiences. Without a persistent passion for and belief in people’s creativity, and the incredible support we’ve always had from the community (and our sense of humor), we never would have made it.”
A film is in production about the formation and transformation of Milwaukee Public Theatre as it faced obstacles and found opportunities to create, collaborate and celebrate.
A SHORT HISTORY
Originally named Friends Mime Theatre, Milwaukee Public Theatre was founded in 1974 by Dr. Barbara Leigh and Michael John Moynihan.
MPT’s original shows melded ancient, traditional and contemporary theatrical forms, addressing many contemporary issues for youth and adults.
Annually, the company presented about 1,000 public events for nearly 100,000 adults and children of all ages, backgrounds, cultures and abilities. Over 45 years, more than 1.5 million people were touched by these unusual, inclusive and imaginative theatre and public arts presentations and events.
Framing the arts as healing and peace-making forces, MPT’s extensive collaborations resulted in arts activities reflecting local values and cultures in colorful, musical and engaging public events.
in memoriam
Read more about those we have lost:
Cecilio Negron, Jr (in process)
Ron Anderson (in process)