Speedrun Studios - inclusive, collaborative theatre made by young adults, for young adults.

"Speedrun Studios" identifies as a community of artists and theatre makers in the Austin, Texas area, dedicated to building up new "brave spaces" for young adults in the arts that are inclusive, collaborative, and fun-first. Named to honor our first ever production, Speedrun's ragtag energy aims to bridge the gap between educational and professional programs, with paid opportunities in projects pitched by, led by, and starring young people. 

There are all these quotes about the arts as an industry... as a job: "it can chew you up and spit you out", "only do it if you can't imagine doing anything else". Entering college, I found myself at a standstill. I loved performing with my whole heart and soul, it was what I poured my entire life into studying - and yet, countless theatrical experiences had left me beat down - surrounded on all sides by cliques, drama, gossip-hungry leadership, stress, and panic: I did not want a career in the arts if that story is what "being a thespian" all meant. I very nearly gave up. But after a much needed break during the COVID lockdown, and filled with a wild confidence and determination that only a worldwide pandemic can give, we mounted our first show in 2021. Driven by the spirit of student-led and student-directed projects in school, how those may not have been the most polished or beautiful shows, but were often the most FUN - that was the philosophy that founded Speedrun. That professional theatre CAN be fun-first. It CAN be a space to truly grow and learn, not surrounded by scolding professors or intimidating superiors, but encouraged, by friends. 

I have met so many people over the course of my time as Artistic Director whose stories of abuse and neglect mirror my own. From students currently enduring abusive behavior, to graduates who aren't involved in anything artistic today because of those experiences. And I am proud that Speedrun Studios has been a home, a life-raft, a save haven - a community, for all of those artists, and more. As we grow, our community is our guiding light. Pursuing projects we are excited about. Trying things we've never tried, challenging ourselves - and "going down this trail like no one has ever gone before - we're gonna do: a Speedrun."

- AC, Artistic Director