Who We Are

Founded in 1973 by Dr. Tom O’Malley and UW–Stevens Point Theatre Professor Tony Schmitt, cwACT began with a vision: to provide the Stevens Point community with a space to explore and enjoy the theatrical arts. What began as Area Community Theater (ACT) became officially incorporated in 1980 as a tax-exempt nonprofit. In 1993, the organization adopted its current name—Central Wisconsin Area Community Theater, Ltd. (cwACT).

Since our first curtain call in 1974, cwACT has brought to life some of the best musicals, comedies, and dramas ever written. We invite you to take part—onstage, backstage, or in the audience—as we continue to create unforgettable experiences for our community. Most of our indoor performances take place at Theater @1800, generously made available by Sentry Insurance.

cwACT also presents Schmeeckle Shakes, our annual Shakespeare in the Park series in collaboration with Schmeeckle Reserve and the Friends of Schmeeckle. Since 2021, these summer productions have delighted audiences under the open sky at the Pankowski Friends Amphitheater.

Our Mission

To collaborate with the Central Wisconsin community in order to create a full theatrical experience that all can enjoy.

Our Facilities

cwACT is headquartered at a beloved multi-use facility known as “The Shack,” located at 2952 Minnesota Avenue in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. This 8,000-square-foot building serves as our:

  • Rehearsal hall
  • Business office
  • Storage facility
  • Set, prop, and costume construction area

Ongoing Events Open to the Public

cwACT is more than just productions—we offer monthly events that keep our community engaged all year long:

  • Theatre Thursdays (2nd Thursday of the month)
    Join us for a casual evening of play readings. The play is chosen based on the number of participants and a group vote. All are welcome, and suggestions are encouraged!
  • Final Fridays – Improv Night (Last Friday of the month)
    Enjoy a night of unscripted fun at The Shack. Whether you want to participate or just sit back and laugh, Final Fridays are always a good time. Follow us on Facebook at Final Fridays for updates.
  • Singing Saturdays – Karaoke Night (Typically 3rd Saturday of the month)
    Warm up those vocal cords and join us for a night of karaoke! Follow CWACT Singing Saturdays on Facebook for times and themes.

Whether you’re a lifelong theater lover or just curious to try something new, cwACT is your stage. Join us as we celebrate over 50 years of community, creativity, and curtain calls.

Executive Committee

  • President – Emma Beckman
  • Vice President – Susan Elandt
  • Treasurer – Tonya Haze
  • Secretary – Kaz Dunbar

Board of Directors

Monica Davisson, Dave Hanlon, Maxine Hogan, Mateo Koch, Michelle Nerren, Aimee Rozek, Tom Russell, Christofer Sands, Amy Schwaab, Liesl Sigourney, and Austin Slack

The cwACT Board of Directors, elected by the cwACT Members, consist of 7 to 15 Directors who in turn elect the Officers of the Board. Directors serve three years, Officers serve one year. The Board of Directors have voting rights.
 
The Board of Directors meet the first Wednesday of each month at 7:00 pm. All individuals from the community as well as cwACT members are invited to attend.