How We Got Started
Early, in 2001, two sisters, Maryann Corey and Patty McGeary, founded The Portable Playhouse in Boston Massachusetts. The idea for the organization came during a lunch discussion over how to fulfill their dreams, and incorporate their passions, into a life long career. The Portable Playhouse was originally born as an idea to establish an after school art program, for all children, to be called The Playhouse.
The sisters searched for a building to house their organization. They found an abandoned building that they wanted to renovate that would be perfect to fulfill their dream. They searched city records and found the owners; however, they discovered that the building had been sold. Still determined to realize their dream, the women set off on a different course. They declared that if the children could not come to the Playhouse, the Playhouse would come to them. Thus, The Portable Playhouse was created. Making the playhouse portable was just the beginning. Next they had to decide how to reach the children who would need a creative distraction. The women investigated the community and found that there was already many well established after school programs. They discovered however, that there was a principal need for creative outlets in hospitals. The women contacted hospitals in Boston and Massachusetts General Hospital was the first to open their doors to the Portable Playhouse.
Recognizing the tremendous need for innovative and healthy distractions to help enhance the healing process, Maryann and Patty were more inspired then ever that their program was providing a vital service. The program presents personalized arts and crafts for childrenand women, of all ages and all stages of recovery. They work one-on-one at the women &child’s bedside to help create a more relaxing atmosphere. When Maryann relocated to New Jersey, the dreams of helping children heal traveled with her. Maryann contacted hospitals there and was soon working in ten children’s hospitals.
The enthusiastic responses from hospital staff and especially the children have inspired the Portable Playhouse to continue and expand its mission to bring smiles to children in hospitals and now women cancer centers across the country.
"Do not follow where the path may lead. Go, instead where there is no path and leave a trail."