Business Details
39 Years
experience
Award-Winning Contemporary Theater in Santa Monica
City Garage has been a pioneering force in contemporary theater since its founding in 1987 by Artistic Director Frdrique Michel and Executive Director Charles A. Duncombe. Our company specializes in producing daring, sociopolitical works that challenge audiences to engage with pressing global and local issues. Over three decades, we have earned recognition for our innovative adaptations of classic texts, original productions, and commitment to staging politically charged narratives.As a nonprofit organization, we prioritize accessibility through discounted passports and community engagement initiatives. Our accolades include the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award for Sustained Excellence and multiple LA Weekly Theater Awards, underscoring our reputation as a leader in experimental theater. With a focus on international collaborations and local relevance, we continue to push artistic boundaries while maintaining rigorous production standards.
Services
Theater Productions
Writers Workshop
Public Readings
Arts Education
Community Engagement
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- 35+ years of producing groundbreaking sociopolitical theater
- Recipient of Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Sustained Excellence Award
- Innovative adaptations of classic and contemporary works
- Affordable access through discounted passport programs
- Critically acclaimed international collaborations
What people say
Stellar performances
Dynamically staged
Contemporary theater at its most impactful
Approaches hallelujah level
Visually stunning production
Services
Theater Productions
City Garage produces cutting-edge theatrical works that combine political commentary with artistic innovation. Our productions feature dynamic staging techniques and international collaborations, focusing on contemporary issues and reimagined classics. Each season presents diverse narratives that challenge conventional perspectives while maintaining technical excellence through award-winning set design and direction.
Writers Workshop
Our Writers Workshop provides professional development for playwrights through weekly feedback sessions and quarterly public readings. Led by award-winning playwright Charles A. Duncombe, the program helps writers refine stage plays, screenplays, and literary works through structured critique and practical exercises in character development and narrative structure.
Public Readings
Quarterly public readings showcase works-in-progress performed by professional actors. These events provide emerging writers with audience feedback opportunities while offering theatergoers early access to developing works. Readings occur at our Bergamot Station venue with both in-person and remote participation options available.
Arts Education
We offer educational initiatives including discounted ticket programs and creative workshops. Our Passport program provides affordable access to four productions, while the Writers Workshop supports artistic development through structured mentorship and professional feedback for emerging playwrights at all experience levels.
Community Engagement
Through partnerships and local initiatives, we foster cultural dialogue via theater. Our programs include audience talkbacks, artist meet-and-greets, and collaborations with social organizations that align with our mission of using theater as a catalyst for community discourse and societal reflection.
People
Frdrique Michel
Artistic Director
Founder of City Garage with 35+ years of directing experience. Recipient of multiple LA Weekly Theater Awards and the Queen of the Angels Award. Specializes in politically charged adaptations and experimental staging techniques that challenge traditional theater conventions.
Charles A. Duncombe
Executive Director
Award-winning playwright and designer with 35+ years of theater experience. Holds LA Weekly Awards for production design and adaptation. Oversees all technical aspects while creating original works that explore contemporary social issues through innovative theatrical forms.
Paul Rubenstein
Board President
Nonprofit fundraising expert with 20+ years of experience. Former staff member instrumental in securing initial public arts funding. Currently leads development efforts at St. Joseph Center while providing strategic guidance to City Garage's growth initiatives.
Roger Marheine
Board Member
Longtime theater supporter and retired humanities professor with 30+ years of City Garage attendance. Holds degrees in Psychology and English Literature. Advocates for socially conscious art and has sponsored educational theater programs for international student exchanges.
Lisa Gray
Board Member
Principal of Rooftop Consulting with extensive program management experience. Former Air Force programs director and technology sector leader. Brings strategic planning expertise to support City Garage's operational development and community outreach initiatives.
Questions
What type of theater does City Garage produce?
We specialize in contemporary political drama, experimental works, and innovative adaptations of classic texts with international collaborations.
Are tickets accessible for students and seniors?
Yes! We offer discounted passports at $75 for students and seniors 64+, providing access to four productions.
How can I support the theater?
Support through monthly Patreon subscriptions starting at $2/month, tax-deductible donations, or program sponsorships.
What educational programs are available?
Our Writers Workshop offers weekly sessions with professional feedback, quarterly public readings, and remote participation options.
Where is the theater located?
We're at Bergamot Station Arts Center, 2525 Michigan Ave. T1, Santa Monica, CA 90404, with Metro Expo Line access.
What awards has the company received?
We've earned the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award for Sustained Excellence and multiple LA Weekly Theater Awards since 1987.
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