Check Out Ryan Leflar’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ryan Leflar.

Hi Ryan, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I am a Kent State graduate with a BFA in Directing and a minor in Pre-Law. I started directing and choreographing shows when I was 15 years old, working with my local elementary and middle schools. By the time I was 16, I was co directing and choreographing our local high school shows. It was at this time I realized that I wanted to do this forever, not just as a hobby.

Fast forward to my time at college where I was given numerous opportunities to try out all aspects of theatrical design. From costuming to lights to acting, I got to experience it all. I realized that I did not just want to be in theater, I wanted to share theater.

I was surrounded by people who were fortunate enough to come from areas where theater thrived and they were given ample opportunities to grow their craft. All I had was my local school. The nearest community theater was an hour away from my small town in Tennessee, not to mention the prices of classes in the arts!

I knew I wanted to make a difference in the way theater was made and shared. Theater should not just be for those that can afford it or those that started at the age of 3, theater should be for everyone.

Starcatcher Theater is a dream in the making. I fully believe that you can accomplish anything you put your mind to and that is what I am here to do. I will be working with local playwrights, local actors, local directors, and other artist to bring affordable arts education to as many people as possible.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Starcatcher is in its first season with our very first main stage production happening in April. It has been quite the struggle to get the word out and to gain a following. Community connections I previously had have come out in mass support of the project, which is amazing, but reaching a new audience has proven quite the challenge! Word of mouth is the best marketing resource though, so I am confident after this first season, Starcatcher will grow even bigger.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Starcatcher Theater is an upcoming theater company with workshops, shows, and lessons. Our mission is to provide affordable and accessible arts for all. I believe that the arts are a community effort and that it takes a village to make it happen. For this reason we pay our entire team and profit share the ticket sales. The production is not possible without everyone, so why should only the artistic team get paid? Our actors, crew, musicians, EVERYONE gets paid.

I also have testimonials from parents and students that have given permission to share.

“Ryan was an absolute inspiration when working with my son in theater! He was obviously very skilled and knowledgable, but what set him apart was the relationships he built with his students. I know my son trusted Ryan, and that really helped him grow in his abilities.” – Julie Shaver

“I had my first acting lesson at Starcatcher Theater this morning. Although I was running a little late, the owner understood and provided me with a fantastic introductory acting lesson. I look forward to taking more lessons at Starcatcher Theater very soon. The owner was very knowledgeable about the different acting techniques, and I learned a lot.” – Camryn Gattuso

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love that Akron has such a rich culture under it. So many people stereotype Akron as a “not nice” area but the arts and community are thriving! Places like Summit ArtSpace, The Civic, and now Starcatcher give people a chance to feel that community.

Pricing:

• Private Lessons start at 30/hour
• Free monthly community events
• Discounted group lessons and events!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://starcatchertheater.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/starcatchertheater
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Starcatcher-Theater/61566621256736/
• Other: https://www.showpass.com/o/starcatcher-theater/