Second Stage Theatre is an award-winning contemporary Off-Broadway theater company. Founded by Carole Rothman and Robyn Goodman in 1979, the original focus of Second Stage Theatre (2ST) was to provide "second staggings" of contemporary American plays that failed to find an audience due to inappropriately times productions, scheduling problems or limited-runs. 2ST has since expanded its mission to include the development and production of new plays and the creation of programs that nurture young theatre artists. This commitment has manifested itself in many ways, from presenting new productions to providing long-term residencies for playwrights, directors, composers and lyricists.