New Oak Theatre

Savannah's Premier Professional Theatre Company

New Oak Theatre represents a watershed moment for live performing arts in Savannah. Founded in 2023 by the husband-and-wife duo Chase and Sarah Brackett, this professional theatre company has brought world-class dramatic and musical productions to the Hostess City. With a name inspired by Savannah's historic architecture, willowy oak trees, and thriving creative spirit, New Oak Theatre symbolizes a blend of tradition and growth—a mission that permeates every production and community engagement initiative.

Like the rings of an oak tree that represent both tradition and new growth, New Oak Theatre is committed to weaving history and innovation into each production. The company revitalizes classic theatrical works while uplifting contemporary pieces, creating an artistic haven where audiences can experience life through new perspectives both on and off the stage.

The Mission & Vision

New Oak Theatre operates as a public charitable organization with a clear mission: to revitalize classical works, uplift modern works, and cultivate every part of the community through inclusive programming, artist development, and strategic partnerships. Founded on principles of community, collaboration, creativity, innovation, excellence, and outreach, every aspect of the theatre reflects a commitment to making professional theatre accessible and meaningful for all Savannahians.

The vision of New Oak Theatre is bold and transformative: to create an artistic haven where people can experience life through a new perspective—onstage, backstage, and in the audience. Rather than existing in isolation, the theatre is deeply embedded in Savannah's cultural landscape, actively engaging with residents, supporting local artists, and providing opportunities for community participation in all aspects of theatrical creation.

The Theatre's Founders & Leadership

Chase Brackett, Artistic Director, and Sarah Brackett bring a shared passion for professional theatre and community arts to their leadership of New Oak Theatre. Their vision to establish a professional theatre company in Savannah stems from a deep belief in the transformative power of live performance and its ability to strengthen community bonds.

The theatre is supported by an experienced team and advisory board comprised of local artists, educators, business leaders, and cultural advocates committed to the success and sustainability of professional theatre in Savannah. This collaborative leadership structure ensures that New Oak Theatre remains accountable to the community it serves while maintaining artistic excellence.

The Tybee Post Theater Venue

Currently, New Oak Theatre performs at the historic Tybee Post Theater, located just minutes from downtown Savannah at 10 Van Horne Ave, Tybee Island. The venue is an intimate, accessible space that fosters a direct connection between performers and audiences. With free parking, full ADA accessibility, and family-friendly amenities, the Tybee Post Theater serves as an ideal home for New Oak Theatre's inaugural seasons.

The historic significance of the Tybee Post Theater adds another layer of meaning to New Oak Theatre's work—the company is honoring Savannah's past while creating new theatrical traditions for future generations.

Future Growth: A Downtown Black Box Theatre

Looking ahead, New Oak Theatre is planning to acquire a dedicated black box performance space centrally located in downtown Savannah. This expansion will allow the theatre to:

• Host multiple productions simultaneously throughout the year
• Offer greater accessibility for downtown Savannah residents and visitors
• Create dedicated space for artist development programs and workshops
• Support community events and collaborative projects with local arts organizations
• Establish New Oak Theatre as a permanent fixture in Savannah's cultural landscape

This expansion reflects the theatre's commitment to growth without losing its core values of community engagement, artistic excellence, and collaborative spirit.

Programming & Community Involvement

Inclusive Programming

New Oak Theatre is committed to producing diverse work that reflects the breadth of human experience. From classic plays to contemporary musicals, from established works to new pieces, the theatre ensures that audiences encounter stories featuring diverse characters, perspectives, and experiences. The company actively seeks to make theatre accessible to all members of the Savannah community.

Artist Development

The theatre invests in the professional development of local and visiting artists through employment opportunities, mentorship programs, and collaborative creative projects. By supporting artists at various career stages, New Oak Theatre strengthens Savannah's creative ecosystem.

Education Programs

Coming soon: New Oak Theatre's Top Notch Education Programs will provide innovative courses and expert instruction for students interested in theatre arts. These programs will unlock potential and help young artists achieve their creative dreams.

Volunteer Opportunities

The theatre depends on passionate community members who contribute their time and talents. Volunteer opportunities range from front-of-house roles to backstage technical positions, offering everyone a chance to be part of the theatrical magic.

Community members interested in supporting the theatre can also become donors, with contributions directly supporting local actors, designers, playwrights, and artists.

The Theatre Experience: What to Expect

Before the Show

Arrive early to explore the venue, settle into your seat, and absorb the pre-show energy. Many patrons enjoy arriving 15-30 minutes before curtain to read the playbill, which provides context about the production, cast bios, and artistic vision. There's no strict dress code—come as you are and prepare to be transported.

During the Performance

New Oak Theatre productions feature professional-caliber performances in an intimate setting. The close proximity between audience and stage creates a unique connection where the energy flows both directions. Expect emotionally engaging storytelling, skilled performances, and theatrical production values that rival larger regional theatres.

After the Show

Many New Oak Theatre patrons extend their evening by exploring Tybee Island's dining and entertainment options, or heading downtown to Savannah's vibrant restaurant and bar scene. The theatre's location makes it easy to combine a performance with a complete evening out in the Hostess City.

Pairing Theatre with Savannah Experiences

New Oak Theatre encourages patrons to make a full day (or evening) of their theatre visit by exploring everything Savannah has to offer:

Tybee Island Pre-Show

• Beach Time: Spend the afternoon at Tybee Island Beach, enjoying the Atlantic Ocean and coastal scenery
• Lighthouse Visit: Climb the historic Tybee Lighthouse for panoramic views of the island and Savannah River
• Fort Pulaski: Explore this well-preserved Civil War era fortress and its beautiful grounds
• Tybee Dining: Enjoy fresh seafood and casual dining at the island's many restaurants and cafés

Downtown Savannah Post-Show

• Riverfront Dining: Return to downtown for exceptional restaurants along River Street and the historic district
• Plant Riverside District: Extend the evening with cocktails and nightlife at this waterfront destination
• Historic Squares: Take a moonlit stroll through Savannah's iconic squares—Forsyth Park, Chippewa Square, and others
• Nightlife & Entertainment: Savannah offers excellent bars, lounges, and late-night entertainment options for post-show celebration

Why New Oak Theatre Matters to Savannah

New Oak Theatre represents a significant investment in Savannah's cultural future. In an era when regional theatre has faced unprecedented challenges, the founding of New Oak Theatre demonstrates the community's commitment to sustaining professional live performance. The theatre provides:

• Professional Employment: Jobs for local and visiting actors, designers, directors, and theatre professionals
• Cultural Vitality: World-class theatrical productions that strengthen Savannah's identity as a premier arts destination
• Community Gathering Space: A venue where residents and visitors come together to experience shared stories and emotions
• Artistic Development: Support for emerging and established artists to create bold, innovative work
• Cultural Access: Efforts to make professional theatre accessible to diverse audiences regardless of background or economic status

Getting Your Tickets

Tickets to New Oak Theatre productions can be purchased:

• Online: Visit newoaktheatre.org for the current season schedule and to purchase tickets
• At the Door: Subject to availability, tickets are available at the Tybee Post Theater box office on performance nights
• Group Rates: Discounted rates available for groups. Contact the theatre for details
• Accessibility Accommodations: Special requests and accommodations can be arranged by contacting the theatre directly

Phone: (706) 290-3045
Email: us@newoaktheatre.org
Website: newoaktheatre.org

Join the New Oak Theatre Community

Beyond attending performances, there are many ways to become part of the New Oak Theatre family:

• Subscribe to Productions: Season subscribers receive discounts and priority access to seating
• Donate & Sponsor: Financial contributions directly support local artists and enable ambitious productions
• Volunteer: Contribute your time and talents to front-of-house, technical, or administrative roles
• Attend Special Events: Beyond main stage productions, New Oak Theatre hosts special events, workshops, and community gatherings
• Audition: Interested performers can audition for upcoming productions. Check the website for casting announcements
• Follow on Social Media: Stay updated on news, announcements, and behind-the-scenes content on Facebook and Instagram

The Oak Tree Philosophy

The inspiration behind New Oak Theatre's name encapsulates its mission. The oak tree, with its rings representing both tradition and growth, serves as a powerful metaphor for the theatre's work. Each ring tells a story—a snapshot of a particular moment in time. Similarly, each New Oak Theatre production captures a moment in cultural conversation, offering audiences the chance to see themselves and their world reflected on stage.

Like an oak tree rooted in soil, New Oak Theatre is firmly planted in Savannah's community. And like an oak tree that continues to grow and expand, the theatre is committed to expansion, innovation, and deepening its impact on the cultural life of the Hostess City.

Whether you're a lifelong theatre enthusiast, a curious first-time attendee, or someone seeking a special evening out, New Oak Theatre welcomes you to experience the magic of live professional performance—a reminder of what it means to be fully human, fully present, and fully alive in community.