Monster Box Theatre is more than just a performance space—it’s a dynamic hub for creativity, community connection, and innovative programming. From interactive murder mystery dinners to improv, plays, and storytelling workshops, it offers something for everyone. In January 2025, it will officially open its physical doors to the Jackson community.

Monster Box Theatre’s New Location in Jackson, Michigan

We recently met Tahra Gribbin, the operations director of this nonprofit professional live-performance theater, during a quarterly meeting hosted by Experience Jackson for organizers of Jackson County Events and Festivals (JCEF). After just a few minutes with her, we bought tickets for their next performance; she is that good.  

A Vision of Collaboration and Creativity

At the helm of Monster Box Theatre is Paul Stark, the Artistic Director, whose vision shapes the theater’s direction. Tahra Gribbin, a seasoned theater enthusiast, co-leads the charge, bringing her passion for stagecraft and community engagement to the forefront. Their partnership is marked by a shared commitment to producing original works and immersive experiences that invite audiences to participate actively in the storytelling process.

“We’ve developed a passion for new, original works and immersive, interactive theater,” explains Gribbin. “Paul loves improv, and I’m drawn to traditional stage shows. Together, we’ve created a space where both can thrive.”

Brick and Mortar Space 

Monster Box Theatre’s brick-and-mortar space will open soon near Jackson Coffee and Jackson School of the Arts. It promises to be a welcoming venue for all. The intimate 100-seat theater, fashioned from a former bookstore, features upcycled bookshelves repurposed as walls and enough space for a lighting grid to create professional-quality productions. “It feels smaller than where we came from,” says Gribbin, “but everyone keeps telling us it’s a great big space. I’m adjusting to that vision.”

Before moving to Jackson, Monster Box Theatre thrived in Waterford, Michigan, for eight years, performing over 100 distinct shows. In one play, they tore out the stage and hauled into two truckloads of sand for their performance of Seascape. 

However, COVID had other plans. In March 2020, the Waterford location closed. “It’s been weird karma and so much positive stuff,” Stark said, referring to their move to Jackson. He continued, “We had the greatest response from people in Jackson. Everybody said this is what we need.” 

Building Community Through Performance

While their physical space was under construction, Monster Box embraced the art of traveling shows. Their murder mystery dinners, held at Jackson venues like the Tower Ballroom or the City View 520 Ballroom, have been a hit, blending comedy, drama, and audience interaction. 

Additionally, their monthly improv comedy nights at Ironbark Brewing Company provide a regular dose of laughter for the community.

“We’ve learned so much from doing these traveling shows,” says Gribbin. “It’s given us the chance to connect with new audiences and adapt to different spaces—skills that will only strengthen our offerings when our theater opens.”

Expanding Monster Box Theatre’s Reach

Not only is Monster Box building its own theatre, it is breaking new ground by using theater as a tool for mental health and personal growth. In collaboration with Segue, a private nonprofit mental health agency in Jackson that offers programs to individuals recovering from addiction or managing long-term mental health challenges, Monster Box Theatre has introduced improv classes and storytelling workshops to foster confidence and creativity. 

After meeting Gribbin and learning more about improv, Segue’s CEO, Michael Thompson, said, “She got me thinking that improv could be a helpful tool for our consumers. The cognitive flexibility that improv works on is a real challenge for some folks. To think quickly, on your feet, respond, and deal with unanticipated incoming stimuli.” 

Thompson added, “It would be a stretch to call some of our other programs fun, but this one? It’s really, really fun.” 

Gribbin also emphasized that improv offers a safe environment to confront fear and uncertainty. For those who have faced immense challenges, being in a space where mistakes are embraced, and laughter is plentiful can be incredibly empowering. 

The improv programs Gribbin facilitates for Segue have already gotten recognition. Thompson shared, “The improv group won the Innovation Award from LifeWays, our primary funder because it was seen as a groundbreaking and creative way to deliver services for individuals with serious mental illness. It’s exciting to have that recognition.” 

To Thompson’s knowledge, no one else in the state is doing anything like this. Segue plans to present the program at a statewide mental health training in the spring. He said, “I imagine other organizations may reach out to learn more.“

A Space for Everyone

Monster Box Theatre isn’t just for seasoned actors or theatergoers. It’s a space where anyone can step into the spotlight, whether on stage or behind the scenes. Gribbin highlights the theatre’s emphasis on inclusivity, noting past programs like special needs theater camps and current efforts to engage the community through storytelling and improv workshops.

Thompson agrees with Gribbin and shares, “One of the most meaningful experiences was when Segue’s improv group performed for Big Brothers Big Sisters. Watching the kids laugh, take pictures, and have such a great time was incredible. For our consumers to bring that kind of joy to kids—it was probably an experience they’d never had at that scale before.”

“It’s about more than improv—it’s about helping people think of themselves differently and believe they deserve better,” Thompson said. 

Looking Ahead

Monster Box Theatre is poised for an exciting 2025, with plans to officially open its new space in January (pending a few final approvals from the city) and a full slate of events and classes. From improv comedy game shows to storytelling festivals in collaboration with the Jackson Library, the calendar is packed with opportunities to experience the magic of theater.

As a nonprofit, Monster Box relies on community support to fuel its mission. It actively seeks sponsorships and grants to sustain its innovative programs and ensure that the arts remain accessible to all. For updates on events and announcements, visit their website and follow them on social media. Whether you’re a theater enthusiast, an improv aficionado, or someone looking to try something new, Monster Box Theatre has something for everyone.

Experience the transformative power of theater and join Monster Box in their journey to bring creativity and community to Jackson. Keep an eye on their upcoming opening and be part of the story as it unfolds.

Pictures

Pictures were provided by Monster Box Theatre’s Paul Stark.