Why We’re Raising Funds

Following its successful 2024 premiere, SHRINK / we all need one returns to the stage! Created & directed by Sophia Pimsler, the 2026 production features additional original songs by Venus de Mars alongside new music and lyrics by Sophia Pimsler, expanding the role of live music, ensemble singing, and dance throughout the production.

Your donation directly supports the artists, production costs, & resources needed to create this production while continuing SHRINK’s mission of opening conversations around mental health, and expanding accessibility through outreach.

SHRINK / we all need one is produced in partnership with Stuart Pimsler Dance & Theater (SPDT), which has provided support for the continued development of this work.

About the Show...

SHRINK/we all need one, an original, witty, rock musical about a therapist helping her clients—and herself—navigate the beautiful mess of everyday life. Written by Sophia Pimsler (who's also a shrink) and set inside a counseling clinic, clients and their therapist reveal how even the most profound lived experiences challenge the myths surrounding mental health.

The musical features an original score by Twin Cities musician, songwriter, and pioneering transgender rock artist Venus de Mars, with additional music and lyrics by Sophia Pimsler. SHRINK is a rich theatrical soundscape that weaves storytelling, ensemble singing, and dance into an immersive experience.

Building on its successful 2024 premiere, this new production of SHRINK / we all need one expands and deepens the work with newly created choreography, an enriched musical score, and refined storytelling, creating an even more immersive and emotionally resonant theatrical experience. No quick fixes. Just song, dance, & bad coffee.

Venus de Mars will perform live for each performance, lending her quintessential musical style, powerful vocals, and decades of artistic experience to the production. As a pioneer figure in the Minneapolis music scene, de Mars has spent over 30 years creating music that also serves as her advocacy platform for Queer Rights. Her original compositions and live performance bring a singular energy to SHRINK /we all need one.

The production features a dynamic cast of acclaimed Twin Cities music, theater, and dance artists, including Suzanne Costello, Brian J. Evans, Maurice Fields, Tyler Jay, Chris Jimmy, Brenna Mosser, and Molly Stoltz.

Your Donation Helps Support:

Artist compensation for performers and creative team members
Rehearsal space
Performance venue expenses
Production costs
Accessibility resources
Printed programs featuring mental health resources

Every contribution helps ensure that artists are supported and audiences can experience a work that creates meaningful conversations around mental health. We all thank you for supporting the arts!

Mental Health Sponsorship Program

***To be listed in our program, submit by Sept. 14th

SHRINK is committed not only to exploring mental health on stage, but also connecting audiences with real-world resources.

Mental Health Professional Sponsorship

Suggested contribution: $80–$250 (minimum donation: $60)

Therapists, psychiatrists, social workers, & other wellness professionals are invited to advertise their practice in our Mental Health Resource Guide, included in every audience member's performance program.

This is an opportunity to introduce your practice to an engaged audience while supporting an original production centered on mental health, healing, and human connection. Many people are ready to seek support but don't know where to begin. Your sponsorship helps make trusted local providers more visible while showcasing your commitment to the community.

Sponsors receive:

A listing in our Mental Health Resource Guide included in every performance program.
A spotlight on director Sophia Pimsler's @dancingshrink social media
Two complimentary ticket to any performance of SHRINK / We All Need One

Your Listing Includes:

Name and credentials
Practice location and/or virtual services
Up to three specialties
Website
Email
Phone number
Insurance information
Professional social media

How It Works

Make your sponsorship donation.
We'll follow up with an email titled "Your receipt from Stuart Pimsler Dance & Theater Inc" within the email you will find a brief form to fill out to collect your practice information for the program and Mental Health Resource Guide.
Within the form, choose which performance you'd like to attend, and we'll have your 2 complimentary tickets waiting for you at will call.

Can I donate even if I'm not a Shrink?

Yes, and we will gladly credit you in our patron program!

Thank You for Supporting SHRINK!

Whether you are a longtime supporter of this work or discovering SHRINK for the first time, your contribution helps bring this story to life. Thank you for supporting the arts and mental health advocacy.

Because we all need one.

-Sophia "Sophie" Pimsler

Sophia Pimsler is a fiscal year 2026 recipient of a Creative Individuals grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board and the 2026 Rimon Grant through the Minnesota JCC.

MSAB activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

Support SHRINK / We All Need One 2026!

Donate or Become a Mental Health Sponsor

Team Members