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LOS ANGELES THEATRE INITIATIVE

Founded in 2017 by Fiona McGrath, the Los Angeles Theatre Initiative (LATI) is a touring theatre company based in Los Angeles dedicated to developing new work and expanding access to international performance opportunities. We collaborate with university and high school students to create original productions for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe—one of the world’s largest and most influential arts festivals.

At LATI, we believe in the power of process. Our programming centers on thoughtful, ensemble-based rehearsal experiences that build strong communities of artists while preparing them for the unique demands of international touring and performance. We are deeply committed to nurturing emerging voices and championing bold, relevant storytelling on global stages.

Beyond our productions, LATI offers consulting services for schools and independent artists interested in creating sustainable Fringe programs. From one-on-one coaching to long-term partnerships, we support others in building the infrastructure needed to develop, produce, and present original work abroad.

Since our founding, we’ve partnered with institutions such as USC, UCLA, Northwestern University, Loyola Marymount University, Ithaca College, Muhlenberg College, Wildwood School, and Squad Harmonix.

We are proud to foster a collaborative, inclusive artistic community where education, advocacy, and innovation thrive.

If our work resonates with you, we invite you to get in touch—we’d love to connect.

Meet the Team

Artistic Director

Fiona McGrath

Fiona founded the Los Angeles Theatre Initiative in 2017 as a junior in high school, driven by her deep passion for the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. An LA native with dual Scottish citizenship, she went on to study Acting and Directing at Muhlenberg College and continued her training at Theatre Academy London. As Artistic Director, Fiona oversees all company operations, including running the West Coast branch, managing multi-show seasons, and leading international touring logistics. With years of producing experience and a deep commitment to emerging artists, she continues to champion LATI’s mission and bring bold, original work to the global stage.

Director of Growth & Development

Madeline Oberle

Madeline is a longtime collaborator with the Los Angeles Theatre Initiative, having directed The Night Children and produced Hometown. A proud alum of Northwestern University, she majored in Theatre and Psychology with a minor in Dance and a concentration in Theatre for Young Audiences. Outside of her work with LATI, Madeline served as the Program Coordinator for Creative Alliances, Social Impact at The Kennedy Center. She is passionate about sharing the Edinburgh Fringe and the transformative power of international performance with the next generation of students.

New Work Advisor

Alex Philpott

Alex Philpott is an actor, writer, and producer with a passion for storytelling across stage, screen, and the page. He earned degrees in Screenwriting and Creative Writing from California State University, Northridge. His original short film Contaminant—which he wrote, produced, and starred in—received multiple award nominations. His poetry and fiction have been published in City Works, The Northridge Review, and Gaslamp Pulp. Alex is excited to continue creating work that bridges mediums and invites audiences into bold, imaginative worlds.

A once-in-a-lifetime experience that I will never forget. Fiona made us all feel welcomed and comfortable and I am so glad she's doing this trip again. This trip introduced me to my favorite place in the world.

Natalia Quintana

Easily one of the most memorable parts of my highschool experience. The relationships I built with the cast and crew were unlike that of any show I had previously worked on. I had an absolute blast, and will remember the trip for the rest of my life.

Leo Wilson

A wonderful, insightful experience for any artists looking to get a taste of international art making! LATI is a company with a strong community that strives to create stronger shows and opportunities together for a fair price.

LOS ANGELES THEATRE INITIATIVE

Meet the Team

Natalia Quintana

Leo Wilson

2022 LATI Member