Progressive TheaterNurturing creativity. Empowering futures.DonateNurturing creativity. Empowering futures.
Progressive Theater gives young people ages 12–18 access to the arts, mentorship, and a community where their ideas can take center stage.
Youth-centered programs
Creative disciplines
Registered nonprofit
The vision began
Progressive Theater is a Pennsylvania nonprofit dedicated to helping young people in underserved communities develop their voices, skills, confidence, and creative futures.
Our multidisciplinary approach connects arts education with hands-on experience. Young people do more than observe: they write, rehearse, direct, film, edit, design, photograph, code, collaborate, and present their work.
Read our founder storyWhere ideas become skills
Programs are designed to be accessible, youth-centered, culturally responsive, and connected to real creative practice.
Acting, scriptwriting, directing, stagecraft, and youth-led productions.
Explore the program →DAMovement, choreography, discipline, teamwork, and expressive performance.
Explore the program →MEFilmmaking, production, editing, podcasting, and digital storytelling.
Explore the program →PHComposition, lighting, visual storytelling, and portfolio development.
Explore the program →GAGame design, coding, character development, and interactive storytelling.
Explore the program →VADrawing, painting, mixed media, set design, murals, and public art.
Explore the program →The Future Home Campaign
We are working toward a dedicated creative center where young people can learn, rehearse, record, produce, perform, and belong—all under one roof.
Our long-term capital vision includes facility acquisition, renovation, equipment, launch staffing, and operating reserves. Site selection and campaign milestones will be announced as planning is finalized.
Help Open the DoorsOur story
Progressive Theater began with a shared dream between husband-and-wife team Donnell Casey and Monique Disu in 2003. As artists, parents, and youth advocates, they saw how powerfully the arts could shape a young person’s confidence and future—and how often cost and access stood in the way.
Life and financial responsibilities delayed the vision, but never erased it. Two decades later, they formally established Progressive Theater and began building the foundation for a creative space serving young people and their communities.
“We want young people to dream big, create fearlessly, and know that their voice belongs in the room.”
Make an impact
Every contribution strengthens access to supplies, equipment, mentorship, programming, productions, and the permanent home we are working to create.
Helps provide art and scriptwriting supplies.
Give now →$50Supports costumes, props, and rehearsal materials.
Give now →$100Helps provide media and photography equipment.
Give now →$250Supports access to an enriching youth program experience.
Give now →Partner Sponsor a program, production, room, or equipment need.
Volunteer Share professional expertise, mentorship, or event support.
Connect Introduce us to schools, artists, funders, and community partners.
Let’s create opportunity together