Laura is the founder of The Redhouse Arts Center located in Syracuse, NY. In 2003 she developed and implemented the Redhouse Capital Campaign, which raised $1.4 million and managed the renovations of a three story historic building in Downtown Armory Square. Since that time, Redhouse has grown exponentially. In March of 2018 the organization moved its new home at 400 S Salina Street in the heart of downtown Syracuse. This $10 million relocation and expansion boasts three new theaters, the largest of which can seat up to 425 people. It also has an attached parking garage, a full-service concession stand, a larger lobby that doubles as a reception and performance space, and several dressing rooms and rehearsal rooms. Over the last 15 years Laura has devoted her time to selecting, casting, commissioning, directing, acting, promoting and fundraising for over 75 productions at Redhouse.
Laura has served as a board member for numerous arts organizations both nationally and internationally. Locally, Laura served on the Cultural Resources Council, Syracuse School of Architecture, Skaneateles Festival, The Sarah G. Austin Foundation and the Allyn Foundation. Laura has taught as an Adjunct Professor of Acting in the College of Visual and Performing Arts at Syracuse University.
She is an active member of the Screen Actors Guild and Actors Equity. Her extended study includes work at London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, The Hartford Conservatory, Nikolais Louis Dance Theatre, La Mama, Second City, Terry Shreiber, Stella Adler and Howard Fine Studios and Trinity College where she earned the President’s Fellowship Award Theatre and Dance. Austin’s performing career encompasses television and film work in Los Angeles and Off-Broadway and regional theatre work throughout the country and abroad.