Firebird Youth Theater
Firebird Youth Theater is the education wing of The Firebird Project — a theater company and arts education community that tells unforgettable stories with young and emerging artists in NYC. Founded in 2013.
Year-round instruction in acting, improv, playwriting, filmmaking, and roleplaying games. Programming includes regular improv showcases, staged readings, student-created short films, and summer intensive theatre camps.
At a Glance
Founded 2013
By Leo Lion, age 13
Ages 8–18
All experience levels welcome
6× National Youth Theater Award
Direction of a Play (2015–2020)
14 Youth Productions
Shakespeare, devised, adaptations, originals
The Team
Artistic Director
Leo Lion
Theatremaker and game designer who established the organization at age 13. Has directed 15+ productions and teaches improv, playwriting, and Shakespeare. Associate with Phoenix Theatre Ensemble. B.A. from Fordham University.
Teaching Artists
Zoe Senese-Grossberg
Teaching Artist
Nationally ranked playwright and professional director with Firebird since 2017. Directs and teaches acting, playwriting, and Shakespeare. MFA candidate at University of Iowa Playwriting.
Josh Brelsford
Teaching Artist
Actor, playwright, and educator with BFA from University of Minnesota and Guthrie Theater. Has toured Shakespeare productions to 52 schools and community centers.
Izzy Pflanz
Teaching Artist
Actor and dancer, with Firebird since 2013. Leads Playmakers Studio (ages 8–12) and contributes movement artistry to Firebird productions. BA from Oberlin College.
Benny Rendell
Teaching Artist
Actor and filmmaker, with Firebird since 2015. Teaches filmmaking lab and Shakespeare study in our youth division. BA from NYU Tisch.
The Firebird Project
Firebird Youth Theater is part of The Firebird Project — a NYC theater company that also produces mainstage work, touring shows, and interactive performances.