Michael Burns

Partner (Mopco, LLC)

(He/Him)

Artistic Director and Founder of our sister company, The Mop & Bucket Company, brings an eclectic mix of talents and experiences to Koppett. Our specialist in programs for those with learning challenges, Michael is well-known throughout the Capital Region for his work in education and human services.

Before settling in the area, Michael studied theatre at SUNY Purchase, and then improv with David Shepherd in New York where he directed for the American Modern Dance Theatre and the American Folk Theatre.  He was a member of The Big Apple Experience, a short-lived but cleverly named improv troupe. He has since worked for several upstate theaters including Home Made Theater, The Theatre Barn and Steamer 10 Theatre.

Michael developed (with David Shepherd) the Compass Institution, an improv troupe touring senior centers and hospitals. He directed inmate-written plays for Very Special Arts at Greene Correctional facility, and has created youth theater troupes for several human services agencies. He is the author of First You Sit on the Floor: A Guide to Developing a Youth Theatre Troupe.