In this inspiring and laughter-filled episode, we’re joined by Tahra Gribbin and Paul Stark from Monster Box Theatre, a dynamic live performance company now based in downtown Jackson, Michigan. After more than a decade of professional theater in Waterford, Michigan, Monster Box has found new life—and a new home—in Jackson’s growing arts district.
We explored the roots of Monster Box, their mission to make the arts accessible for all, and how they’re creating space for people of all backgrounds to find their voice, whether onstage or off.
What We Talked About:
The Origin Story: From community plays to professional productions, Tahra and Paul share how Monster Box Theatre came to be.
Why Jackson?: How the city’s warm embrace and creative energy made it the perfect new home for Monster Box.
Improv and Accessibility: Why improv is the perfect tool for building confidence and community—especially for folks who never thought they’d be onstage.
The Segue Partnership: Tahra describes their award-winning collaboration with Segue, a Jackson-based mental health agency, using improv to foster life skills and self-expression.
The Power of “Yes, And”: Paul reflects on how improv, even when scary, opens doors to joy, connection, and unexpected transformation.
Jackson Festival of the Arts: Monster Box leads this community-wide celebration designed to unite Jackson’s vibrant artistic scene.
What’s Next?: From immersive murder mysteries to storytelling workshops, traveling shows to in-house productions, Monster Box has big plans.
Location, Location, Location!
Monster Box Theatre’s new home is at the corner of Washington and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive in downtown Jackson. It’s part of the city’s walkable social district—just steps away from great food, drinks, and now, live theater.
Visit monsterboxtheatre.com to sign up for classes, subscribe to their email list, or become a member ($5/month) and check out the Life In Michigan article on Monster Box Theatre
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