Our Leadership
Executive Leadership Team
Lee Peters
Managing Director and Board Member
Allison Sokolowski
Founder, Artistic Director, and Board MemberBoard of Directors
Co-Artistic Director and Board MemberRian Sondag
Financial Director and Board TreasurerJamie Redwood
Elizabeth Hartnett
Board ChairA recent transplant to Chicago, she has previously worked in theaters as a stage manager, producer, and costume designer. When not working in theaters, Elizabeth works in advocacy and recently was a Development and Research Coordinator for Facing Forward to End Homelessness. She now works as a Policy and Communications Associate for ACT Now Illinois, which works towards ensuring that young people in Illinois have access to quality, affordable afterschool and youth development programs.
Kiayla Ryann
Board MemberKiayla is a multidisciplinary creative leader, poet, and arts strategist based in Chicago. Her work sits at the intersection of art, wellness, and community engagement, where she designs and leads programs that use storytelling and performance to support reflection, connection, and collective care. She has created and curated multiple community-centered cultural initiatives, including Red Talk and Poet’s Tea & Pleasure, and brings experience in arts leadership, trauma-informed facilitation, and grant strategy. Kiayla is pleased to serve on the Board of Chicago Playback Theatre, supporting the organization’s mission to elevate community stories through live performance.
Board MemberShakir McThune
Shakir is a Chicago based actor, director, teaching artist, and youth development professional. A board member of Chicago Playback Theatre Ensemble, he is passionate about using theater as a tool for storytelling, connection, and community building. His artistic work centers the experiences of everyday people, particularly Black and Brown communities, and explores the intersection of performance, education, and social impact. Shakir has worked with organizations across Chicago including Youth Guidance, America SCORES Chicago, Breakthrough Urban Ministries, and the Holistic Life Foundation. He is currently expanding his directing practice while continuing to perform, teach, and create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued.