Anna Smulowitz - Founder

Upon arrival in Newburyport in 1979, Anna founded the Newburyport Children's Theatre, now known as Theatre in the Open. Over the past 32 years, she has worked with most of the local theater and dance companies. Currently, she runs Smulowitz Productions which presents dramas and musicals in the Newburyport area. Smulowitz Productions annually collaborates with over 100 local actors, directors, designers, writers, choreographers, musicians and stage technicians. The long term goal of the organization is to provide contemporary and classical theater experiences for children and adolescents. She continues to teach at Acting Out Productions. Students range in age from 7-9 and 10-12.

Since 1979, Anna has acted in, directed or produced over 150 shows in Newburyport, and developed three major summer arts programs, each of which is currently operating. Recently Anna enjoys collaborating with former students and colleagues in developing and producing new plays at the Actor's Studio of Newburyport and the Firehouse Center for the Arts.