Business Details
40 Years
experience
Your Premier Arts & Culture Destination in Los Angeles
Working Stage is a Los Angeles-based artistic collective dedicated to fostering creative growth through theater arts and educational programming. Founded in New York in 1986 by Frank Megna and Mary Tower, our organization relocated to Los Angeles in 1992, continuing our mission to develop socially relevant works through organic technique and collaborative artistry. Under the leadership of co-owners Diana Ljungaeus and Frank Megna since 2002, we operate as a hub for theater professionals and educational initiatives. Our Opening Minds Productions division, recognized as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, specializes in historically inspired educational theater that brings pivotal figures and events to life. With a 55-seat theater space equipped for diverse productions and rentals, we support emerging artists through workshops, script consultations, and private coaching.Our team combines decades of industry experience with academic expertise, having trained at institutions like HB Studios and contributed to both stage and screen. We maintain strong community ties through partnerships with cultural institutions and educational organizations. Our programming emphasizes accessibility, offering special rates for independent filmmakers and collaborative production opportunities. The theater's historical significance and commitment to artistic integrity have made it a respected fixture in Los Angeles' cultural landscape. Through initiatives like the Meeting of Minds series, we continue to bridge artistic expression with educational enrichment.
Services
Theater Rentals
Workshops
Script Consultation
Private Coaching
Film Shoots
Educational Programs
Historical Productions
Venue Rentals
Acting Classes
Meeting of Minds
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- We offer 35+ years of theatrical production experience since 1986
- Our 501(c)(3) non-profit status supports educational theater initiatives
- We provide versatile venue rentals with professional technical capabilities
- Our team includes industry veterans trained at HB Studios and Uta Hagen
- We maintain partnerships with educational institutions for historical programming
Services
Theater Rentals
Our 55-seat theater space features surround sound, digital lighting, and projection equipment. Ideal for performances, film screenings, and workshops. Available with flexible scheduling options for both short-term events and extended runs. Technical support available for professional productions.
Educational Programs
Opening Minds Productions delivers historical theater experiences and curriculum-based programming. Our workshops combine performance with educational content, focusing on significant historical figures and events. Programs align with academic standards for school partnerships.
Script Consultation
Professional script analysis and development services led by experienced industry professionals. Includes detailed script breakdowns, character development guidance, and structural improvements. Available for both new writers and established professionals seeking refinement.
Private Coaching
Personalized sessions focusing on audition preparation and role development. Tailored to individual actors' needs with techniques developed through decades of professional experience. Sessions emphasize practical application of dramatic principles and performance psychology.
Historical Productions
Specialized in bringing historical figures to life through dramatic performances. Our Meeting of Minds series features interactive portrayals of notable historical personalities. Combines rigorous research with theatrical presentation for educational and entertainment purposes.
People
Diana Ljungaeus
Co-Owner & Executive Director
Professional writer since age 15 with international journalism experience. Currently leads Los Angeles Press Club and co-wrote film 'The Seekers'. Developed original plays in development including 'The Boy With No Heart'.
Frank Megna
Co-Owner & Artistic Director
HB Studios-trained actor, writer, and director with extensive Off-Broadway experience. Developed acting workshops and screenwriting programs. Provides script consultation and private coaching services to theater professionals.
Questions
What types of theater productions do you offer?
We produce historical dramas, educational plays, and original works through our non-profit division.
Can I rent your theater space for events?
Yes, our 55-seat venue is available for screenings, performances, and film shoots.
Do you provide acting training programs?
We offer workshops, private coaching, and script analysis services for theater professionals.
Is your organization affiliated with educational institutions?
Yes, we partner with schools and universities for historical programming initiatives.
What is your Meeting of Minds series?
It's a historical drama series featuring famous figures in interactive educational performances.
