Stepping Out Theatre (SOT) was founded in 2004 by 14-year-old Anna Finklestein in a Boston suburb. In its beginning, the company served Southeastern MA by providing professional theatrical opportunities for young artists under the age of 24. Both the business and artistic aspects of the company were handled exclusively by young people. 

In the summer of 2008, Finklestein relocated to Portland, Oregon, bringing Stepping Out Theatre with her! While the mission has changed dramatically to reflect the company's organic evolution, SOT remains dedicated to the empowerment of young people.