Claire Thompson
Hello!
Claire Thompson is a Chicago based theater maker, focusing on directing and acting. Originally from Bangor, Maine, Claire's gateway to theater was through the Dramatic Academy program at Penobscot Theatre Company, a regional theater in Bangor. During high school, Claire was a member of her school's performing arts academy, culminating in her writing a full-length jukebox musical with the music of Dar Williams her senior year. In college, Claire was a part of the student theater and film scene in addition to studying theater, participating in numerous productions as an actor, director, production manager, fight choreographer, and more. She has worked at equity and LORT theaters such as Penobscot Theatre Company, White Heron Theatre Company, and Trinity Repertory Company, and has professional experience as an Assistant Director, Actor, PA, Stage Manager, and Teaching Artist. She has done most of her work so far in New England, but recently moved to Chicago and is excited to join the creative ecosystem the Windy City fosters.
In her free time, Claire enjoys reading, baking, going on hikes, visiting the ocean, and has recently picked up crocheting.
Education & Experience
2020-2024
Bachelor of Arts
Brown University
Bachelor's Degree from Brown University, double concentrating in both Theater Arts and Performance Studies (TAPS) with a focus in acting and directing, and History with a focus in historiography. Explored how stories are created, shared, and survive. Capstone production for TAPS was directing Natasha, Pierre and the Great Comet of 1812, combining both TAPS and history skillsets. Graduated Magna Cum Laude and member of Phi Beta Kappa.
2024-2025
Stage Management & Production Management Apprentice, Trinity Repertory Company
Worked as the SM/PM Apprentice during the 2024-2025 season at Trinity Rep in Providence, RI. Was selected out of over 100 applicants, and served as a PA on one show and crew coverage for two more. Additionally, worked in the production office on projects such as drafting union and non-union contracts, designing a production calendar for the following season, compiling archival research, and more.
2022-2025
Teaching Artist, Dramatic Academy, Penobscot Theatre Company
Served as a senior teaching artist for three summers with PTC's Dramatic Academy. Acted as the lead teacher for the Tiny Thespians (ages 4-6) and senior teaching artist for the other students (ages 7-18) one summer, and the Production Stage Manager and one of four head teaching artists the other two summers. Additionally, assisted Angela Bonacasa, a SAFD certified stage combat instructor, with a week-long stage combat intensive.
2012-2018
Dramatic Academy, Penobscot Theatre Company
Took part in a series of theatrical education programs put on by the regional theater in Bangor, Maine, including after school programs, summer intensive camps, masterclasses, and conservatory classes. Topics include Shakespeare, Stage Combat, the interplay between voice and the body, technical theater, and more.