OUR STORY

The New Zenith Theatre (NZT) was originally launched in 1999 as a community and arts initiative at Naugatuck Valley Community College in Waterbury Connecticut. Its successful efforts to create engaging and relevant theatre for young people, schools, and family audiences has expanded throughout the state, and has been embraced by teachers, parents and thousands of children and teens.

Our mission and storytelling platforms have evolved. Today, through both theatre and filmmaking, we conceive and create engaging stories and productions that inspire, educate and train--and we reach both adult and youth audiences.

Live theatre delivers relevant and engaging artistic experiences for youth. Our stage work has resulted in over 30 major productions of contemporary and classical plays, musicals, and touring projects.

In 2015, we began to produce youth-centered films. Working with mental health experts at the University of Connecticut Health Center, our "Critical Moments" film series and "Trauma Avengers/Digital Diaries" website and films are used to further the professional development of therapists and health educators nation wide.

Our partnerships include: UCONN Health, Connecticut Public Broadcasting, Connecticut Community Fund, Naugatuck Public Schools, Department of Children and Families, Mattatuck Museum, Webb-Deane-Stevens History Museum, Looking In Theatre, The Center for the Treatment of Developmental Trauma Disorders, and the National Child Traumatic Stress Network at Duke University.

These collaborations are examples of our passion about working with local organizations, schools, and national health centers committed to improving the lives of young people and families. Join our efforts to build a creative community that inspires, teaches, and empowers young people. We know that together, anything is possible.