• Advertise
  • Donate
  • Write
  • Intern
  • Events
  • About
  • Contact

The Austinot

Discover the Best Things to Do in Austin, Food & Drink deals and more!

  • Things To Do
    • Things To Do This Weekend
    • Kids Events in Austin this Weekend
  • Discoveries
    • Austinot Loves
    • Activities
    • Day Trips
    • Local Business
  • Food & Drink
    • Food
    • Drink
  • Entertainment
    • Events
    • Film
    • Music
    • Nightlife
    • Theatre
  • Culture
    • Arts
    • History
    • Museums
  • Et Cetera
    • Non-Profits
    • Podcast
    • Archives

Women-led Filigree Theatre Honors Past, Present, Future Through Productions

April 10, 2018 by Vi Chetan Leave a Comment

Delicate Ship Set by Filigree Theatre Austin

Set of “A Delicate Ship” by Anna Ziegler (Credit: Nicolette Mallow)

When Elizabeth V. Newman and Stephanie Moore met, neither one anticipated founding a theatre company together. But all the hard work paid off and Austin-based Filigree Theater came to be. With Newman as Artistic Director and Moore as Managing Director, the women-led artistic group has produced several critically-acclaimed shows. Newman and Moore have worked diligently to shine light on Austin’s visual and performing arts that go beyond the music our city is known for.

Playdates Turn Into Plays

Newman had always humored the idea of opening her own theatre. But she never imagined a chance meeting with a fellow single mother, Moore, would make her vision a reality. Playdates and coffee soon evolved into a serious effort to open a theatre. Their friendship translated to an equally healthy working relationship.

Both Newman and Moore have backgrounds in theatre. Before Filigree, Newman spent time in New York, Los Angeles, and Canada, expanding her directing and producing prowess. Those experiences, she said, taught her “first-hand the ups and downs of small theatre in different locales.”

Founders of Filigree Theatre Austin

Elizabeth V. Newman and Stephanie Moore
(Credit: Riley Krauss)

Meanwhile, Moore was gaining her chops in the film industry. She spent time as first assistant director and producer of several short films, music videos, and web series.

When the two met, their mutual love for the performing arts quickly formed a bond. They began writing up a business plan and settled on the name Filigree.

The name, which refers to a delicate type of jewelry metalwork made with twisted threads, resonates with both of their goals: to grow creative projects and nurture artists, as well as connect artists to larger theatre communities across the country.

Connecting Past, Present, and Future

Betrayal by Filigree Theatre in Austin

Scene from “Betrayal,” the first production by Filigree Theatre in 2017 (Credit: Joshua Scott)

What’s special about Filigree Theatre’s programming is Newman and Moores’ creative take on the plays they produce. Truly embodying the meaning of “filigree,” they’ve chosen works that weave together the rich history of theatre, bring present-day playwrights’ works to life, and plant seeds for the future of theatrical performance.

The seasons are structured to reflect this philosophy. With the theatre’s opening in Fall 2017, the debut show brought Harold Pinters’ “Betrayal” to life, a nod to the rich history of theatre. The following winter, the focus turned to the present, with a production from a playwright who is living and working today: Anna Ziegler’s “A Delicate Ship.” Spring 2018 will feature new work by Sheila Crowley, titled “Trio” (April 26-May 6, 2018).

Newman and Moore pride themselves on not being an actor-driven theatre. Instead, they believe their three-show seasons keep bringing audiences back for more. Rather than creating shows that are suitable for particular actors, they choose shows that offer opportunity for any talented actor. Because of this model, Newman and Moore are always eager to meet new talent.

Future of Filigree Theatre

Newman and Moore hold workshops and recently started an internship and volunteer program. These are both valuable opportunities for anyone who wants hands-on experience helping run a theatre company.

Filigree Theatre’s debut show, “Betrayal,” was received with enthusiasm and positive reviews. With this success and powerhouse leaders at the helm, Austin’s local theatre company has a promising future. Less than a year old, Filigree Theatre is on its way to becoming a known name in our creative community.

Website

 

@theAustinot wants to know:

What was the last theatre performance you attended?

  • Author
  • Recent Posts
Vi Chetan
Vi Chetan
Vi Chetan
Latest posts by Vi Chetan (see all)
  • Best Donuts in Austin: 5 Doughnut Shops And Places That’ll Make Your Eyes Glaze - September 22, 2021
  • 5 Free Ways to Bring in New Year’s in Austin - December 27, 2019
  • What to Expect From Austin’s Trail of Lights in 2018 - November 19, 2018

Filed Under: Entertainment, Theatre

Best of The Austinot

We always have unique content on The Austinot and we love to give things away. You know, like concert tickets, gift cards, and other cool stuff. We only send out our “Best of the Austinot” newsletter twice a month. It’s where we give you a recap of our best articles and give stuff away. Interested? Subscribe to Best of The Austinot here!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Connect with Us

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • RSS
  • Twitter

Popular Right Now

4th of July Fireworks Austin

Where to Watch 4th of July Fireworks in Austin (2025)

4th of July Deals Austin

Best 4th of July 2025 Deals Austin: Dining, Retail & More

What's Open on 4th of July Austin

What’s Open on the 4th of July in Austin (2025)

4th of July Events Austin

4th of July Events in Austin Area 2025 | Parades, Live Music & Family Fun

Recent Posts

  • Top Kids Events in Austin July 4 – July 6 include Star Spangled Fest, Kids Day, and More!
  • Best Fun Events in Austin this Weekend of July 4 Include Star Spangled Fest, Divine Carnival: Reimagining the Odyssey, and More!
  • Where to Watch 4th of July Fireworks in Austin (2025)
  • Best 4th of July 2025 Deals Austin: Dining, Retail & More
  • What’s Open on the 4th of July in Austin (2025)

Welcome to The Austinot

We are all about Austin: the vibe, the people and the uniqueness of the city. We love to explore. Get to know us! We’ll respond if you comment. Heck, we’ll probably invite you to come and hang out with us!

Follow along to help support and learn more about local businesses, artists, and events.

-The Austinot Team

Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2025 · Log in