Flapjack Theatrics is a theater (etc!) company with a unique model. It’s a one-ADHD-woman venture, but almost every project involves a small number of very close collaborators, and each project aligns with cancer survivor Tia Shearer Bassett’s values of human-first work ethic, and thoughtfully welcoming and caring for audiences.
Forgoing the traditional theater season model, Flapjack produces work on its own artist-friendly timeline and keeps shows in repertory for multiple years. “When I was pursuing theater as an actor in other companies’ shows, I often felt that a piece was just revving up or just clicking into place artistically…right as it was closing,” says Shearer Bassett. “As an artist, I want to do a show for as long as it feels good to do! As long as I have something to offer it, and vice versa. And as an audience member, I’ve always loved when a great show gives me the opportunity to come to it again and bring a friend.”
Flapjack specializes in out-of-the-box, solo actor work: non-linear shows, shows that follow their own logic, shows that defy norms. Object puppetry and group interaction are typical elements of a Flapjack show, but the most important element is a welcoming atmosphere. “My AuDHD kiddo needs to be able to gesticulate and maybe even move around when they watch a show,” says Shearer Bassett. “I want to make theater that would make my kid feel welcome.”
Flapjack’s summer lineup of “shows that welcome you into the adventure” includes:
- EDWARD AND CHRISTINE, a live Zoom love-story told out-of-order, Sun. 6/22/25 at 2pm EST. Featuring the artistry of director Anna Lathrop, designer Debra Kim Sivigny, and poet-playwright Kenneth Koch.
- THE GIRL WHO SWALLOWED A CACTUS, an in-person family-friendly show, playing as an Official Selection of the BorderLight Theatre Festival in Cleveland on Fri., 7/18 at 5:30pm, and Sat., 7/19 at 1:30pm and 8:00pm in the Wizbang Circus tent. Featuring the artistry of playwright Eric Coble and director Matt Bassett.
- GLITTER VIKINGS OF A WOLFISH GOD, a live Zoom show based on Shearer Bassett’s cancer year, Sun. 7/27 at 2pm EST in honor of Sarcoma Month, with additional performances Fri., 8/1 at 7pm and Sun., 8/3 at 2pm.
More information can be found at flapjacktheatrics.com.