Fearless Theatrical Creations (“Fearless”) was founded as Fearless Comedy Productions in July 2012 to promote risk-taking comedy in the Twin Cities. It began when the Founding Artistic Director, Tim Wick, brought together performers from different companies to build a production company that developed new and chancy comedy without trying to limit the abilities and expression of those involved.
Fearless was successful in producing full-length productions, hosting monthly improv and stand-up shows, and organizing fundraising events that helped grow the company and its reputation. The company grew its membership over the years, recruiting diverse artists who participated in Fearless’s productions and fundraising efforts.
However, the Covid-19 pandemic hit theaters hard, both financially and in terms of artist engagement. Tim Wick stepped down as Artistic Director and Jason Kreuger stepped in to help keep Fearless afloat. Fearless continued to produce events online while theaters were shut down, and then the company resumed in-person shows once it was safe to do so. In addition to the monthly Double Blind Improv Show and monthly Fearless Lab, the company produced its annual showcase of original one-act plays written, directed, and performed by local artists, Fearless Five.
In the wake of the pandemic, Fearless faced challenges in producing shows. The company’s artists had mostly disengaged, the cost of renting performance spaces increased, and audiences were slow to return to the theater. In addition, in the years since Fearless was founded, a multitude of theater companies, improv groups, and open mic nights have popped up, creating a more crowded and competitive market for both artists and audiences. After struggling for a few years to make ends meet while continuing to create opportunities for artists, the company’s leadership decided to make significant changes to help ensure its long-term future.
After Jason Kreuger stepped down in January 2024, the Board began a search for his replacement. In August 2024, Eric B. Jacobson was hired as the Artistic Director with the directive to help revive the company. He spent three months learning about the company, speaking with past and present company members, and surveying Twin Cities artists to better understand the company’s strengths and its opportunities for delivering more value to the community. In light of these conversations, Eric worked with the Board to restructure the company and refocus it on its original mission: providing opportunities and support for local artists to take risks, try new things, and develop daring new ideas.
Today, Fearless Theatrical Creations helps local artists create daring, high-quality works for the stage. In response to feedback from local artists, the company has expanded to include genres other than comedy, with a new focus on original, scripted theatrical works. It is our ambition to make the Twin Cities a place where new and experienced theater artists can find the opportunities and the resources they need to bring their ideas to life.