Find Your Spark
Welcome to Phoenix Theater, where the spirit of community, creativity, and passion ignites the stage!
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Uptown, Minneapolis, we are more than just a black box theater; we are a haven for grassroots performing arts, cabarets, plays, improv shows, dance performances and more. Our commitment to fostering a sense of belonging is reflected in our multifaceted space, designed for both seasoned performers and enthusiastic patrons.
Our mission is to foster a community where the arts come alive. With an onsite team dedicated to curating unforgettable experiences, we invite you to join us in celebrating the magic that unfolds within our black box walls.
Immerse yourself in the creative energy as you explore our main stage, several rehearsal rooms, and a cozy community café – perfect for unwinding before or after a show.
Come be a part of our story, and let the Phoenix spark your imagination!
Our Team
Jenna Papke
Executive Director
Jenna Papke (she/her/hers) is the Executive Director of Arts Nest, which manages the Phoenix Theater.
In her free time (such as it it), she is a freelance director.
She is the Managing Director of Smartmouth Comedy, for whom she directed Dapper Purple Plushie Co in April 2019.
Frequently she produces and directs under Glowing Ember, including Love is Never a Lie, The Maids, and The Country Wife.
Vanessa Brooke Agnes
Board Member
Vanessa Brooke Agnes (she/her) is a Black queer artist and dreamer. Vanessa is Founding Artistic Director of Dark Muse Performing Arts, Co-Founder of Minnesota Black Theatre Circle, and an ArtsNest Board Member & DirectorWorks graduate.
She recently assistant directed at the Guthrie Theater and has directed around town at Artistry Theater, Lyric Arts, Minneapolis Musical Theatre, Playwrights' Center, Red Eye Theater, Lakeshore Players Theatre, Children’s Performing Arts and others.
Vanessa is also a producer, writer and performer. Vanessa lives in South Minneapolis with her pup, Winnie. @vanessabrookeagnes
Eric Cohen
Project Manager
Eric Cohen (he/him/his) is the Project Manager for Arts Nest and the Phoenix Theater, which means whatever it needs to mean from moment to moment.
He has a background in circus, teaching, and engineering as well as 15 years in theatre.
In his spare time he makes theatrical and carnival masks.
