Always Fresh. Always New Haven.
Original, site-specific theatre inspired by the culture, history, and lived texture of New Haven.
Since 2008
A Broken Umbrella Theatre is a New Haven-based ensemble that creates original, site-specific theatrical experiences. Every production is inspired by the culture and history of New Haven. Always Original. Always Fresh. Always New Haven.
We transform familiar places into stages for discovery — parks, tunnels, warehouses, pizza shops, and theaters. Through song, dance, spectacle, and storytelling, we connect audiences to real moments from our city's past. Our site-specific work brings New Haven's stories to life in the very locations where they happened.
We are the only theater company whose main purpose is to create original work inspired by New Haven's history. Our site-specific work enlivens underutilized spaces throughout the city, turning forgotten corners into vibrant stages. To date we have renovated and inhabited ten unique locations, each chosen for its deep connection to the story we tell.
We are an all-volunteer company. Our ensemble members write, improvise, design, build, sew, act, direct, and more. Over 100 artists per project, ranging in age from eight to over 65. Together we create immersive experiences that could only happen in New Haven.
Benedict Arnold. Roger Sherman. New Haven, 1776.
Full production coming 2027 • Connecticut's 250th
Following our model of community-driven development — like A Slice led to Family Business — we're exploring New Haven's revolutionary history through community conversations and workshops.
Saturday, April 19, 2026
Cherry Blossom Festival • New Haven
June 2025 • International Festival of Arts and Ideas
Next Door Pizza • New Haven, CT
View Show PageYour generous gifts allow us to keep creating theatrical experiences inspired by our shared New Haven history.
A Broken Umbrella Theatre is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. All donations are tax-deductible.
15 original productions, each inspired by a real moment in New Haven's history.
"Artistry as great as any major theater in Connecticut"
— Hartford Courant
40+ ensemble members
One mission. Always New Haven.
Our artists range in age from eight to over 65. The majority live, work, and raise families in New Haven. Just when our state is losing young professionals and families, our artists are moving to New Haven because of the innovative work we are doing.
Meet the EnsembleWe seek to immerse the community in our ensemble playmaking process — from research to design to storybuilding.
Ages 12-15
Get ready to laugh at our Comedy Improv Summer Camp!
Ages 11-15
Play with A Broken Umbrella Theatre and learn the building blocks of ensemble theater-making.
Registration details coming soon!
How 400 years of New Haven history inspire our stories — from the founding of the colony to the pizza revolution.
New Haven Colony founded
Revolutionary War — Benedict Arnold, Roger Sherman
First telephone exchange in the world
Frank Pepe's opens on Wooster Street
A Broken Umbrella Theatre is born
Interested in education, volunteering, sponsoring, or partnering?
Say HelloA groundbreaking cultural hub at 280 Blake Street — where art comes to life and community thrives.
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Supported by a $500,000 Good to Great grant for Phase 1