Steve Cisneros Founder of Phantom Projects Theatre Group Talks Live Performances in OC

Founder Steve Cisneros talks about Phantom Projects Theatre Group as a beacon of creativity, education, and community engagement on the boarder of LA and Orange County.

We recently spoke with Steve Cisneros about the continued growth and impact of Phantom Projects Theatre Group, touching on several exciting developments for the company. Cisneros shared insights into the theatre’s current location, their successful relaunch after the COVID-19 pandemic, and the significant role their youth program plays in the community. He emphasized how Phantom Projects Theatre has become a central hub that brings together audiences from both Los Angeles and Orange County, fostering collaboration and connection between these communities.

Founded by Cisneros in 1997 when he was just 17, Phantom Projects Theatre Group began in his parents’ two-car garage. Over the past 28 years, the theatre has evolved from a grassroots effort into a highly respected institution. Cisneros has overseen the daily operations and played a hands-on role in producing and directing performances. His extensive background in the performing arts has seen him work with notable organizations like Nederlander, South Coast Repertory, McCoy Rigby Entertainment, and La Mirada Theatre, and he has directed over 50 productions and produced more than 100.

In 2017, Cisneros received the Ambassador of Peace Award from the Orange County Violence Prevention Coalition for his work using theatre to engage and educate at-risk youth. His efforts, alongside those of other honorees like a judge and a police officer, highlighted the powerful influence theatre can have on young people’s lives.

One of the standout features of Phantom Projects is its youth program, which has inspired nearly 500,000 teens in Southern California. The program brings literary classics to life on stage, offering students an opportunity to experience these stories in an interactive, engaging way. Additionally, the company creates original plays that address critical issues facing teens, parents, and educators, tackling topics such as identity, relationships, mental health, and social justice.

The theatre’s partnership with the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts has been essential in making this all possible. The venue serves as a platform for the company’s performances, allowing them to reach a wide audience. Currently, ‘James and the Giant Peach‘ is running at Phantom Projects Theatre, followed by ‘Be More Chill‘, which Cisneros is particularly excited about. He also shared the news that their partnership with the City of La Habra has been extended until 2031, ensuring the long-term future of their collaborative efforts.

Phantom Projects Theatre Group continues to be a beacon of creativity, education, and community engagement, helping bridge the gap between LA and Orange County through the transformative power of theatre.

To purchase tickets at Phantom Projects Theatre Group for ‘James and the Giant Peach‘ and ‘Be More Chill‘ visit: https://thephantomprojectstheatre.com/.

Phantom Projects Theatre Group is located at:
311 South Euclid St.
La Habra, CA 90631