Inspiring Young Minds Through Theatre Education Since 1989

Play-Ground Theatre Company is dedicated to bringing the transformative power of theatre to children ages 3-12 throughout Colorado. Founded by Mia Sole and Jeffrey Haycock, we believe that drama education is essential for developing confident, creative, and compassionate young people.

Our Mission

We make theatre education accessible and engaging for every child and teacher. Whether through our touring performances, hands-on workshops, professional development programs, or downloadable resources, we're committed to fostering creativity, building confidence, and supporting learning through the arts.

What We Do

Our Approach

Every program and resource we create is:

• ✅ Age-Appropriate - Designed specifically for young learners
• ✅ Educationally Sound - Aligned with learning standards and best practices
• ✅ Accessible - Easy to implement, regardless of experience level
• ✅ Joyful - Because learning should be fun!

Why Theatre Education Matters

Research shows that drama education helps children:

• Build confidence and self-expression
• Develop empathy and emotional intelligence
• Improve communication and collaboration skills
• Enhance creativity and problem-solving abilities
• Strengthen literacy and language development

PRESIDENT & FOUNDER

MIA SOLE

Mia Sole, born on April 10, 1966, in Plainview, New York, is a distinguished theater artist, abstract artist, designer, and entrepreneur. Growing up in a vibrant educational environment, she attended North Shore High School, where she excelled in athletics, earning numerous awards in volleyball and as a standout pitcher in softball. Her passion for performance brought her to the University of Colorado Boulder, where she majored in theater and was recognized for her talent with a theater award in 1989.

In the same year, Mia embarked on a new journey by founding Play-Ground Theatre, a children's theater dedicated to entertaining and educating young audiences. She has successfully managed the theater since its inception, using her artistic voice to inspire generations of children.

Mia married Jeffrey Haycock on August 25, 1996, and together, they have built a life centered around creativity and education with “Play-Ground Theatre”. They collaborate on producing enriching materials, such as coloring books and activity books, published on Amazon under their brand, “Keep it Positive for Kids.”

In 2015, Mia expanded her creative pursuits by launching a photography and art business called Miangelo. She embraced her artistic passion further by launching a fine art business three years ago after relocating to Delray Beach, Florida, from Rollinsville, Colorado. Often referring to herself as an ambassador of goodwill, Mia is known on stage for her dynamic presence, embodying a unique blend of Harpo Marx meets Aretha Franklin.

Mia's multifaceted career in the arts combines her love for theater, education, and visual art, significantly contributing to her community and enriching the lives of children and families through her diverse creative endeavors.

VICE PRESIDENT & FOUNDER 

JEFFREY HAYCOCK

Jeffrey Haycock is a lifelong performer, musician, and educator who has dedicated his career to inspiring creativity and confidence in children. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Jeffrey discovered his love for music and theatre at an early age. After graduating from Wellesley High School in 1982, he went on to study theatre at the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, where he was honored with the prestigious Francis S. Basillian Award for Acting Excellence.

Following graduation, Jeffrey combined his passion for music and performance as a founding member of Acoustic Junction, touring nationally and playing iconic venues such as Red Rocks Amphitheatre. In the late 1990s, he continued his musical journey with The Vengers, a ska band that quickly built a devoted following.

Jeffrey’s path took an exciting turn when he met his creative partner, Mia Sole, at a local school. Together, they founded “Play-Ground Theatre”, a touring children’s theatre company that has brought joy, imagination, and laughter to schools and communities for decades. Through interactive workshops, staff trainings, theatre games books, and consulting services, Play-Ground Theatre continues to champion the power of the performing arts in education.

In 2021, Jeffrey and Mia expanded their mission by launching “Keep It Positive For Kids”—a brand built on the belief that childhood should be filled with creativity, confidence, and fun. Their bestselling coloring books provide screen-free entertainment with bold, easy-to-color illustrations designed to spark imagination and develop fine motor skills. Today, Keep It Positive For Kids is trusted by thousands of families for creating resources that help children smile, learn, and grow.

With over thirty years of experience in performance and creative education, Jeffrey remains a passionate advocate for the arts as a tool to engage young minds, build confidence, and spread positivity.