This is
Slow Burn
Slow Burn Theatre Company is dedicated to producing high-quality, professional musical theatre that challenges, inspires, and entertains. We embrace bold storytelling and diverse voices, presenting a mix of contemporary works, cult favorites, and Broadway classics that push creative boundaries and connect deeply with our audience.
Rooted in South Florida, our mission goes beyond the stage. We are committed to accessibility, inclusion, and community engagement—offering educational outreach, accessible programming, and opportunities that welcome everyone into the transformative power of live theatre.
At Slow Burn, we don’t just tell stories. We ignite them—with passion, purpose, and heart.
Slow Burn Theatre Company began in 2009 with a dream shared by co-founders Matthew Korinko and Patrick Fitzwater, two passionate artists who believed South Florida deserved a theatre company that pushed creative boundaries while celebrating the heart of musical theatre. From their very first production, Bat Boy: The Musical, staged in a high school auditorium in West Boca Raton, Matthew and Patrick set out to fill a theatrical void by producing contemporary, daring, and rarely staged musicals that other theatres wouldn’t attempt.
Matthew, a skilled performer and producer, and Patrick, a visionary director and choreographer, combined their artistic talents with a deep commitment to building a company with purpose and heart. Together, they curated bold seasons that mixed cult favorites, Broadway blockbusters, and challenging contemporary works—striking a chord with audiences, critics, and South Florida’s creative community.
In 2014, Slow Burn moved into the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, where the Southeastern premiere of Big Fish launched a new chapter in the 590-seat Amaturo Theater. This partnership cemented Slow Burn’s place in South Florida’s cultural landscape and provided a professional home for more than 70 full-scale musicals to date.
At its core, Slow Burn’s mission is to showcase the best of contemporary musical theatre in South Florida, while recognizing and nurturing the incredible talents of local creative professionals. The company has earned praise for its high production values, fearless storytelling, and inclusive spirit—fostering a loyal community of theatre lovers along the way.
Now celebrating over 15 seasons, Slow Burn Theatre remains a home for big talent, bold choices, and unforgettable performances—guided by the same passion and purpose that ignited its very first spark.
Your support ensures that Slow Burn can continue to take risks, nurture local talent, and bring unforgettable theatrical experiences to our community. Together, we can keep the spark alive and the fire burning for seasons to come.

Patrick Fitzwater
Artistic Director and Co-founder

Matthew Korinko
Executive Director and Co-founder
Slow Burn Theatre Company is proud to be supported by a dedicated, hard-working Board of Directors whose passion, leadership, and commitment help fuel our mission on and off the stage. From strategic planning to community outreach and fundraising, our board members play a vital role in shaping the future of our organization.
We’re always looking for enthusiastic individuals who believe in the power of live theatre and want to make a meaningful impact in the arts community.
Interested in joining the Slow Burn Board? We’d love to hear from you. Help us build, grow, and inspire—one show at a time.

Ryan Poliakoff
Board President

Gary Deinken
Treasurer

Michael Mehmet
Secretary

Frank Bolaños
Board Member

Marivi Bryant
Board Member

Tonya Seavers Evans
Board Member

Lorin Rodman
Board Member

Todd Rodman
Board Member

Joe Balchunas
Board Member

David Diaz
Board Member

Patrick Fitzwater
Artistic Director and Co-founder

Matthew Korinko
Executive Director and Co-founder

Julie Valent
Managing Director

Frank Galloway
Grants Administrator
Rick Peña
Resident Costume Designer
Timothy Dickey
Technical Director
Employment & Auditions
Whether you’re a performer, designer, or behind-the-scenes creative, we’re always looking for passionate talent to bring our productions to life.
Community Programs
At Slow Burn Theatre Company, we believe theatre should be for everyone.That’s why we’re proud to offer a variety of programs designed to make our performances more inclusive, welcoming, and accessible to all members of our community.