MEET STEPHAN TURNER:
FOUNDER & ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF THE GATE
FOUNDER & ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF THE GATE
Stephan Turner is the visionary Founder and Artistic Director of The Gate Theater Group (TGT). An accomplished artist, director, and producer, Stephan has dedicated nearly two decades to cultivating a thriving English-language theater community in Northern Thailand.
A Foundation of Theatrical Excellence
Stephan's deep connection to the stage is generational, stemming from the legacy of his father—a prolific playwright, producer, and performer whose notable work included writing the original screenplays for the famous Dolemite character.
Before establishing his legacy in Asia, Stephan built a distinguished career in the United States, serving as Artistic Director for both The Gary Creative Workshop Theater and the Stage Actors Ensemble of Chicago. He is also the founder of the renowned Performance Loft Theater in Chicago, where he honed his skills as a director, scenic artist, lighting designer, and producer.
Establishing English Theater in Chiang Mai
In 2007, Stephan relocated to Chiang Mai, Thailand, seeking a new path for artistic creation. He recognized that while the city had a burgeoning arts community, there was a critical void: the absence of consistent, high-quality English-language theater.
This opportunity—to create something entirely new—became his driving mission. He enlisted the help of dedicated local teachers and artists to establish The Gate Theater Group. Early challenges in securing a venue and cast were overcome when Mr. John Gunther, then Director of the AUA Language Center, supported the cause by offering the AUA auditorium for TGT's inaugural, highly successful production, The Dodo Bird. This breakthrough solidified The Gate's permanent presence in the community.
TGT & Chiang Mai Theatrics: A Dual Mission
After retiring as the Theater Arts Department Head and Drama Teacher at Chiang Mai International School, Stephan now serves as the Managing Artistic Director, concentrating on TGT's dual commitment:
- To develop and draw from local talent to the maximum extent possible.
- To enhance the development of youth in the theater arts through cooperative ventures with local schools and workshops.
Today, The Gate Theater Group and Chiang Mai Theatrics are highly respected and beloved arts organizations. They represent the first organizations of their kind in Thailand to offer both professional technical theater assistance and performance-based theatre workshops in English.
Furthermore, The Gate Theater Group holds the distinction of being the first US-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit theater organization operating in Thailand, solidifying its commitment to long-term community service and artistic excellence.
To learn more about Stephan and his journey, visit his website
