Little Branch is a Boise-based theater company committed to creating intimate, emotionally honest work that embraces curiosity, risk, and connection.
Meet the Artists Behind the Story
Amela Karadža
Artistic Director
Born in Bosnia and arriving in Boise at age 5, as her family sought refuge, Amela brings a depth of lived experience to her theatrical work.
After earning her MFA from Rutgers Mason Gross School of the Arts, she performed memorable roles including Joan in Vinegar Tom, the Duke of Aumerle in Richard II at Shakespeare's Globe in London, and #2 in The Wolves at Boise Contemporary Theater.
Her passion for the craft extends beyond performance—she loves teaching Meisner Technique throughout the Treasure Valley and will be bringing her teaching to Little Branch soon. When not creating, you'll find her spending time with her fur-children! Amela's work is inspired by her supportive family– especially her mother, husband, and the enduring memory of her father, whose influence remains a cornerstone of her artistic influence.
Jovani Zambrano
Artistic Director
Brooklyn-born and now proudly calling Boise home, Jovani's theatrical journey has taken him from Shakespeare's Globe in London to collaborating with numerous inspiring companies including Hudson Valley Shakespeare, Alley Repertory Theater, Theater for the New City, and The Spot.
Playing Oscar in Lynn Nottage's Sweat at Boise Contemporary Theater stands among his most favorite and meaningful roles. He is excited and fueled for his next role in building Little Branch with his very creative and supportive wife, Amela, who he would not be able to do any of this without. He wants Little Branch to be a space where artists can learn, take risks, fail spectacularly, and create something extraordinary.
Our Story
The Beginning
Amela and Jovani's paths intertwined at Rutgers' Mason Gross School of the Arts, where they trained in the Meisner Technique, Williamson Movement Technique, and classical theater. Their shared love of storytelling and craft formed the roots of a creative partnership that would eventually grow far beyond the East Coast.
The Pivot
When the pandemic brought them to Boise to be near Amela's family, they discovered a community of talented theater artists eager for more opportunities. What began as a temporary move soon blossomed into a deeper connection with the people and the creative possibilities they discovered in Boise.
Little Branch Is Born
With their shared passion for challenging perspectives and creating meaningful work, Little Branch was born. The name carries personal significance–Amela's great-grandfather lovingly called her his "little branch" because she was so small. This term of endearment captured exactly what they hope to build: something that starts small but grows into something greater with time and care.
Little Branch exists to uplift diverse voices, build artistic connections, and celebrate the creativity that makes a community thrive. Like the branches of a tree reaching outward while staying rooted, we are committed to bringing varied theatrical experiences to the City of Trees, nurturing both artists and audiences along the way.
Looking Forward
Community Building
We're building a vibrant and engaged theatrical community in Boise. Our productions spotlight emerging local talent and share diverse stories that resonate with our audience.
Artist Development
We're developing a structured program where early-career artists grow their craft alongside seasoned professionals through workshops, masterclasses, and collaborative productions.
Permanent Theater Home
Our long-term vision includes establishing a permanent space in Boise—a creative home for our productions, our Meisner teaching studio, and a gathering space for workshops and community events.
Join Our Journey
Little Branch is more than a theater company—it's a community of artists, audiences, and supporters growing something beautiful together. We'd love for you to join us.