I’m Anna Rachel Troy — director, founder, marketer, and creative strategist helping artists, theatres, and bold ideas grow from possibility into impact.
My work lives at the intersection of storytelling and systems: creating meaningful art, building sustainable creative ecosystems, and helping artists and organizations find sharper visibility, stronger momentum, and real support.
As a director, I believe in bold, collaborative storytelling that empowers artists and centers process as much as product.
As the founder of Chicago Artist Atlas and Artistic Director of Theatre EVOLVE, I’m committed to grassroots artistry, accessible opportunities, and building better systems for artists navigating an industry that often asks them to do too much alone.
Whether through directing, marketing, coaching, or founder-led work, my mission is simple: To help artists, stories, and creative organizations grow and bloom through collaboration, strategy, and joy.
Because meaningful work doesn’t have to be built through burnout.
It can be built with intention.
What I’ve built:
A growing platform helping artists navigate Chicago’s creative ecosystem with more clarity, connection, and opportunity.
Built to be more than an audition board, Chicago Artist Atlas is an expanding support system centered on practical resources, discoverability, and sustainable career growth.
Highlights:
Built and launched a Chicago-centered platform serving 300+ registered users and growing
Cultivated 2,000+ social followers through strategic content and artist advocacy
Created a searchable hub for auditions, resources, and professional development
Developed original blogs, guides, and educational tools focused on real artist needs
Positioned Atlas as both a practical resource and a larger vision for artist accessibility
A Chicago storefront theatre company rooted in bold storytelling, accessibility, and grassroots artistry.
As Founder and Artistic Director, I built Theatre EVOLVE to challenge gatekeeping, create meaningful opportunities, and prioritize collaboration, process, and newness.
Highlights:
Founded and led a 501(c)(3) nonprofit theatre company since 2017
Produced full productions, workshops, and developmental programming
Reached 1,200+ annual audience members
Generated 20,000+ online impressions annually
Maintained a Pay-What-You-Can model to expand accessibility
Built and expanded The Practicum, a directing and artist development series
Why it matters:
Across both organizations, my work is rooted in one belief:
Artists deserve more than survival mode.
Through storytelling, systems, and sustainable opportunities, I’m committed to helping artists, organizations, and ideas grow with strategy, accessibility, and joy.