“Poignant and infuriating.”
- The Minnesota Star Tribune

“A powerful, visual rich story about both the evils of humanity and the resilience of community.”
- Ken Burns, Filmmaker

“Gripping and devastating.”
- MINNPOST

MAGIC & MONSTERS uncovers the long-buried story of widespread sexual abuse at America’s preeminent children’s theater. In the aftermath of litigation, four survivors attempt the unthinkable: working with the very institution that harmed them. The film examines the moral obligations of institutions when confronting historical abuse. It presents an intimate exploration of trauma’s ripple effects while demonstrating how organizational transparency—despite potential risks and short-term costs—represents the only path toward genuine healing. MAGIC & MONSTERS illuminates a path toward institutional courage, and offers hope for all survivors seeking justice and reconciliation.

DIRECTOR: Norah Shapiro

PRODUCERS: Elizabeth Foy Larsen, Christine Delp

EDITOR: Julia Parroni, Jen Bradwell

CINEMATOGRAPHER: Brennan Vance