A new performing arts nonprofit has formed in Eau Claire. River Theatre Co. announced itself to the community this fall, saying it wants to bring performances to unconventional spaces rather than operate from a permanent facility.
The organization is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Its founding board includes Hannah Hedberg, Andrew Salvaterra, Tessa and Dustin Haugle, and Kaysee and Luke Otto, many of whom have known each other for years through the Eau Claire theatre scene.
Instead of monthly productions, the group plans a carefully curated series of shows. Board members said they spent significant time securing production rights, exploring venues and completing nonprofit status before announcing the launch, and that they plan to partner with and support other local nonprofits through fundraising and advocacy.
The company will hold an event on Dec. 6, titled "Over the River & Through the Woods," at which it will reveal its first large-scale musical production.
That first production is planned for August 2027 in Eau Claire. Board members described it as a large-scale, all-ages, family-focused musical, and said a director from the Chippewa Valley outside the board has already been chosen.
