Tell us about yourself and your latest role with Encore!

I was originally born and raised in Detroit Michigan. I moved to Fayetteville, GA at age 12, where I stayed until graduating high school. I graduated from Mercer University in 2023 with a B.S in Biology and a B.A, in Theatre. I spent the last year as the Education and Community Engagement Apprentice at Olney Theatre Center, training as an arts administrator. Outside of my new position as Programming Associate, I was a teaching artist for Encore’s Scenes for Tweens staged combat camp, and I am the Assistant Director for this year’s Flip the Script play. As an artist, I consider myself an actor and singer, with a deep love and experience for staged combat. I have proficiencies in Broadsword, Double Stick, and I am constantly working on adding new weapons and skills to the list. 

What projects/programs did you work on previously with Encore?

 At Encore I worked as the Assistant Director for the writing portion of the 2024 Flip the Script program, and as a TA for the Scenes for Tweens Staged Combat camp this past summer.

What made your decision to join Encore Stage & Studio this season?

After working with Madaline and the rest of the Encore Team this past season, I felt that this was a wonderful company to help me both grow as an artist, and professional. Additionally, the values and visions of the company align heavily with my own personal goals. Simply put, I want to give as many children as possible the opportunities in the arts that I did not have access to, and allow them to explore their interests and curiosities to grow into the best versions of themselves. 

What shows and projects are you looking forward to this season at Encore?

This may be a little biased, but I am very excited about Flip the Script. Not just because I am Assistant Directing, but also because I believe the Script and story are beautiful and have a wonderful message to give to everyone. Another show I am excited about is Footloose. This is the first show that I had a named role in, so it holds a special place in my heart whenever I see it done.

Can you describe your favorite performing arts experience and what made it so memorable? 

This is a hard one, but I would have to say my favorite was playing Percy Jackson in the Percy Jackson Musical in my Senior show in college. Not only was this my first time playing the titular character in a show, this was the culmination of all the work I had put in during my 4 years at school. I got to see the results of all my hard work both in my performance skills, and the community that I helped to build around the theatre.(which included getting to perform with my sister for the first time in 4 years), but the cherry on top occurred following one of the shows. I got the chance to meet a young child whose mom drove him 3 hours to see the show because he was obsessed with Percy Jackson, his mom reads the books to him every night. The child was so excited to meet me and we talked for a long time about the show. This moment showed me the magic and joy that my artistry brings to the world and people, and serves as a core memory for me.

What’s your favorite play or musical as an audience member? 

My all time favorite musical to see as an audience member at the moment is Six.

Why do you think the performing arts are important for young people? 

I think the performing arts gives young people a crucial outlet to express themselves and explore the depths of storytelling. It’s a great way for young people to learn skills critical to succeed in the adult world like team work, focus, public speaking, technical/computer skills, and communication skills. Additionally it allows for a space for young people to better learn about their own emotions, and better equip themselves at dealing with them, and using them in their lives. Additionally, like sports, the performing arts gives students a community space where there are only winners, no losers, everyone succeeds and fails together, and it creates a space where people from tons of backgrounds can gather and learn from each other. But, and what I think is most important about the arts. It teaches young people the importance of the heart. The arts are unique in that they are able to touch and interface with people regardless of language, or life experience and allows young people to learn new ways to connect with others.

What is your dream character role or dream production to work on and why?

My dream role would be to play Jack in Into the Woods. Into the Woods is one of my all time favorite musicals. For tons of reasons, firstly it is the first musical I have ever seen live, the second is that I love fairy tales and folklore, and Into the Woods combines them all brilliantly. Jack has my favorite song in the show Giants in the Sky. Thus I really, really want a chance to play him, plus it is always fun to play a kid on stage. An honorable mention goes to Dr. Facilier in Princess and the Frog. This is my Favorite Disney princess movie, and if it ever got adapted to the stage, I would love to play the Shadow man! Friends on the other Side is easily top 3 best Disney villain songs, and his overall vibe is just so magnetic, I would love a chance to play him,

What theme day should Encore have at the office?

Encore should have a Dinosaur/Jurassic Park themed day because I love dinosaurs (before changing career paths I was planning on becoming a paleontologist) and Jurassic Park is my favorite movie.  

This season is about courage — what courageous experiences and lessons can we learn in the arts?

There is nothing more courageous in the arts than presenting your work to others. Regardless of if it’s visual, performing, or technical. When you present your work you are giving a very personal part of yourself and identity to the world for them to see, and potentially, criticize. It is not easy putting yourself out there to be judged by your peers. It takes a lot of courage and experience to learn how to be confident, and display your work with pride. It takes a lot of restraint to ignore the negative comments and feed into the positive, and it takes a lot of strength to show the world who you really are and your artistic vision. Which, in my opinion, is the most beautiful lesson the arts can teach.

Lastly, is there anything else you’d like to share?

To all my young people out there uncertain about their skills and abilities, or are hesitant to explore the arts due to social pressures. I say Just try, even if you’re bad, even if you’re looked down upon at first, just Try. Art is simply what happens when someone expresses who they are, do not let your fears keep you from sharing that inner beauty with the world. You are unique, and incredible in every single way possible. you’re are a light in the world, and the world is brighter when you express yourself. So Get up! Sing, paint, Dance, Act, make art, and make the world beautiful.

The post Meet Encore’s Programming Associate, Derrick Buie appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

Tell us about yourself!

I was raised in Sterling, VA where I was involved with dance, theatre, and digital media all through my childhood.  I have a degree in media studies from Radford University, where I also minored in theater!  I always enjoyed marrying digital media and theatre, taking on projects like promotional photos & videos, documentaries, and headshots for the theatre and dance department. In the summers I taught dance classes at various dance studios and theater camps. I’m very excited to be joining the Encore family!

What made your decision to join Encore Stage & Studio?

I have a deep appreciation for the “by kids for kids” slogan.  I grew up in the theatre (literally my mom was a drama teacher) and I admired how her focus was always on the fact that educational theatre is just what it is – educational.  And teaching kids to embrace all elements of theatre: run crew, props, design, performance, ushering, box office, student directing, playwriting, improvisation, etc. is so important for kids to build important life skills, beyond just theatre.  I’m proud to use my marketing & development skills to promote Encore Stage & Studio and make sure children in our community have a chance to participate in an art form that is so valuable to our culture.

What shows and projects are you looking forward to this season at Encore?

I am looking forward to all of them, obviously!  I sat in in a read through for The Rabbit and the Moon which is a bilingual folktale. It is a beautifully written story by Daniel Mesta that strongly reflects our theme of this year, which is courage.  It seamlessly blends English and Spanish together for audiences of all ages to enjoy.

Can you describe your favorite performing arts experience and what made it so memorable?  

I think my favorite experiences had to be dance recitals growing up.  I loved everything about the experience from being on stage to hanging out with other dancers in the dressing rooms. I even loved the drama of a quick change!

What’s your favorite play or musical as an audience member?

An amazing musical I saw earlier this year was Next to Normal at Roundhouse Theater in Bethesda, MD. I love supporting local theaters in the DMV. There’s a lot of talent around here and it’s a privilege to have as many theaters as we do.  And this particular production used projections of videos in an innovative way that I loved as someone who always is looking for ways to combine digital media and theatre.  It’s fascinating seeing how projections have been introduced into live theatre over the past decade. 

Why do you think the performing arts are important for young people?

I think the most important thing to keep in mind is that performing arts for children are a great way to build community and learn how to participate in a project that’s bigger than them as individuals. Theatre teaches kids how to be respectful of each other, themselves, and the spaces they enter, how to meet deadlines, and how to think critically and develop strong media literacy skills.  By learning stories about people with both shared and different experiences as them it also can teach them empathy for those around them. The arts is a great tool to build well rounded individuals.  The way Encore centers kids in their practices is really inspiring.

What is your dream character role or dream production to work on and why?

In college I was cast in ‘night, Mother and it got cancelled after the second rehearsal because of the pandemic.  I would love another chance to play Jessie Cates, preferably in a couple decades when I’m the appropriate age for the role. It would also be ideal if I could work with the same team I worked with originally, I feel like it was a passion project for all of us and it was difficult letting it go.

What theme day should Encore have at the office?

Pink Pony Club Day! It’s very inspiring to have a new pop star that values theatricality, and it would be great to see everyone at the office in their favorite pink sparkly outfit!

This season is about courage — what courageous experiences and lessons can we learn in the arts?

I think the most courageous thing a person can be is respectful.  In the arts we thrive on a division of labor system and no job is more important than the rest.  And when you have respect for the arts, respect for your team, and respect for yourself and the role you’re in, it makes everything run smoothly.  Being respectful is courageous because we live in a country that prioritizes the individual over the collective, and it’s easy to put yourself first or on the opposite end of the spectrum – become a people pleaser.  And the arts is a great tool to use to teach children these values at an early age, because no job is too small in the arts or in life.  We’re all here for the same project and we all want it to be successful. And even if kids don’t pursue a career in the arts, they will take these values with them everywhere they go.

The post Meet Emma Crawford, Encore’s Marketing & Development Coordinator appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

Tell us about yourself and your latest role with Encore!

I am so excited to be here at Encore as an Education Apprentice! I have been involved in theater since I was very young growing up in Charlottesville, Virginia: from doing Robinson Crusoe with a traveling children’s theatre to being involved with my middle school drama club all the way until graduating from Virginia Commonwealth University this last May with a degree in Musical Theatre Performance. Being a theatre kid shaped me and helped me find my voice, and I am so excited to help the kids in NoVa do the same!

What made your decision to join Encore Stage & Studio?

I was drawn to theatre education at the end of my time at VCU, and I was excited by the theatre happening in DC, so this apprenticeship was really the perfect fit for me to bridge the gap between college and a career in the arts. I fully stand behind the concept of “theatre by kids and for kids” so I am very excited to grow alongside the young artists I get to work with this year!

Can you describe your favorite performing arts experience and what made it so memorable? 

When I was at VCU I had the opportunity to be in the ensemble of James and the Giant Peach, which was my first show back onstage after the pandemic. I loved the variety of characters I got to play while in the ensemble, and I think the thing that made it so positive and memorable was the cast I got to perform with! Everyone was dedicated to the art we were making together, and we were all so grateful to be able to take the stage again after performing for empty rooms and self-tapes for two years. My favorite part was playing The Empire State Building! 

What’s your favorite play or musical as an audience member?  

I’ve never had the pleasure to see it in person, but my favorite show to watch is Come From Away. The proshot came out during the pandemic and has become one of my favorites to come back to! I love the ensemble nature of the show, the way every actor portrays multiple characters, and the use of on-stage instrumentalists.

Why do you think the performing arts are important for young people? 

The performing arts gives young people the opportunity to shine, but it also helps them learn to share the spotlight and lift each other up. These skills young artists learn on stage also apply to everyday life and can be brought into whatever job market they pursue in the future. I believe everyone should try performing arts once in their life, you can only learn and grow from it!

What theme day should Encore have at the office?

As an avid reader, I would love a Book Character Day! Because that’s what we theatre people do: bring characters to life! (Plus I would appreciate the book recommendations) 

This season is about courage — what courageous experiences and lessons can we learn in the arts?

It takes courage to speak your mind! Both on stage and behind the curtain there are opportunities to share your own perspective and make a contribution. Everyone’s voice matters, so be courageous and use yours!

Lastly, is there anything else you’d like to share?

I’m simply so ecstatic to be here! Here’s to a year of courage and wonderful art!

Photos courtesy of Parker Nelson.

The post Meet 2024/2025 Education Apprentice, Parker Nelson appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

You may have seen this familiar face in the previous summers on stage including Freaky Friday and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. We’re so excited for her return to Encore for another amazing summer! Get to know our 2024 arts management intern and Encore summer show alum, Alex Beach!

We’re so glad to have you back! Please tell us about yourself!
Hi there! My name is Alex Beach and I am thrilled to be working as an Arts Management Intern for Encore this summer! I grew up in Annandale, Virginia where I have lived my whole life. I am 21 years old and am currently a rising senior at Long Island University where I am studying Arts Management. In my free time, I love to make my own music, paint, and go to the gym. In the future I would love to work full time doing marketing or finance for a music/theater company while also creating my own music on the side. 

What made your decision to apply for the Encore internship? 
As an Arts Management major, I was particularly excited to gain experience working in the field I hope to pursue after graduation. I have really enjoyed working on shows with Encore in the past, so when I saw the internship posting on Encore’s website, I knew I had to apply. During my time with Encore, I’ve met wonderful people and made lifelong memories. I was so impressed by the talent and professionalism of the young performers and crew members, as well as the kindness and attentiveness of all the staff. It made the decision to apply an easy one! 

What shows have you participated with Encore before and please tell us all about it!
I have participated in Encore productions the past two summers while home from college. During the summer of 2022, I was in the cast of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, which was a collaboration between 3 local theater companies: Encore, Arlington Players, and Avant Barde. This was my first time ever working with Encore, and from the start I knew I wanted to work with them again. 

Last summer I was in the cast of Freaky Friday as a part of Savannah’s Clique. I absolutely loved working with this cast, especially my friends in Savannah’s Clique: Natalie Garcia-Ruiz, Juliette Kane, and Drew Wright. Because I go to college in New York, summers can sometimes feel a little lonely, but the cast and crew of Freaky Friday provided me with a wonderful support system and lifelong friendships for which I am eternally grateful. 

What skills are you looking forward to learning during your time at Encore this summer? 
I am so excited for the opportunity to work under wonderful mentors and learn what it takes for a non-profit theater company to operate smoothly from an administrative standpoint. My first experience on crew for a production gave me a newfound appreciation for all the effort that crew members put into making a show the best it can be, and I know the same will be true about the management positions. Everything from box office operations to fundraising and development is crucial and advantageous in this industry. I’m especially looking forward to improving my skills in website design and learning about managing finances for a non-profit organization.

Can you describe your favorite theatre/performing arts experience and what made it so memorable? 
My favorite role that I have ever played was Logainne Schwartzandgrubenierre (Scwartzy) in my high school’s production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Not only is this show memorable on its own for its comedy and quirky characters, but the tight-knit cast made it a particularly special experience for me. I didn’t know it at the time, but this was actually my last show that I would perform at Falls Church High School due to the pandemic in 2020. Although I had been in many theatrical productions before, playing Schwartzy was the first time that I truly fell in love with a character, flaws and all. Schwarty is brilliant, funny, and spunky. She is strong willed, confident, and is not afraid to speak her mind – qualities that I admire and strive to embody in my own life. 

What’s your favorite play or musical as an audience member? 
My favorite show I’ve ever seen is Once on This Island on Broadway! Perhaps the most unique aspect of the musical was its staging in the round, with sand covering the entire stage and real water representing the sea. Elements of the set were incorporated all throughout the theater, making the experience incredibly immersive, as if there was no separation between the actor’s world and the audience’s. I was blown away by the talent of the performers, including big names such as Hailey Kilgore, Alex Newell, and Lea Salonga. Beyond the incredibly talented performers and outstanding set design, Once On This Island tells a beautiful story. Ti Moune, a peasant girl, is saved from a terrible storm by the gods to settle their debate; Is love stronger than death? The heart-wrenching tale explores themes of faith, hope, prejudice, love, and death. 

Why do you think performing arts are important for young people?
A brilliant theater teacher once told me that if he could have any superpower in the world, he would choose the power of perspective – the ability to see any situation from someone else’s point of view and understand why people make the choices they do or are the way they are. He explained that theatre is the key to achieving this superpower. This sentiment has stuck with me because it has made me see the performing arts as the transformative experience they truly are. 

Participation in the performing arts is so important for young people, especially, because it encourages them to develop compassion for others and practice empathy. Theatre challenges performers to understand and embody characters that may be vastly different from themselves without judgment or inhibitions. Furthermore, the performing arts provide a form of self expression that allow young people to learn about themselves and the world around them in a creative and collaborative way. 

What is your dream character role or dream production to work on and why?
My #1 dream role is definitely Elle Woods in Legally Blonde! Not only is this role absolutely iconic, but the score is so catchy, and Elle’s songs are some of my favorites to sing. Her journey from a seemingly superficial sorority girl to a successful Harvard Law student breaks stereotypes and demonstrates that true strength comes from being resilient and unapologetically yourself. I would be honored to play this role some day! 

Another role I’d love to take on is Rusty in Footloose! My passion for the musical started back in 8th grade when I was chosen to perform the solo for “Let’s Hear It For The Boy” at a musical theatre summer camp. That experience made me fall in love with the show. I’d be thrilled to revisit the role of Rusty within the full context of the production, as she’s such a vibrant and confident character. 

What theme day should Encore have at the office?
I would love to see Encore have a “dream role” theme day at the office! Since we are all lovers of theater, it would be fun to learn about Encore employees’ favorite shows or characters they would like to play some day. 

Is there anything else you’d like to share with us? 
I just want to give a shout-out to my supervisor, Aileen Christian, and to my co-intern, Matthew Bloss-Baum, for being the best team I could ever ask for! I appreciate both of you and feel so lucky to work with you both this summer!

Photos courtesy of Alex Beach.

The post Meet 2024 Arts Management Intern & Encore Alum Alex Beach appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

We’ve got an exciting summer coming your way and we’re thrilled to introduce you to our summer team! You’ve seen him in Encore’s past Stage Doors and season productions on cast and crew, meet one of our newest 2024 Arts Management Interns, Matthew Bloss-Baum!

Welcome back to Encore! Please introduce yourself to those who are new here and let us know what you are up to now:  

Hello!  My name is Matthew Bloss-Baum and I am currently a rising sophomore at Fordham University in New York City.  I am a communications major with a double minor in Film /TV and Political Science.  At school, I am very involved in the arts.  I am in an A Cappella group that I am also on the E-Board for and I am very involved in our main stage theatre club which does four productions a year.  This year I was on the cast for three and did costumes for the last one!

What years and programs/productions (and roles) were you involved in Encore?

During my time participating in Encore, I was a part of almost 30 productions.  I was doing shows from the second I could, I started when I was just 10 years old and did productions until I was a junior in high school.  Some of my favorites were Snow White, The Little Mermaid Jr., and Newsies!  I always enjoyed the musicals the most because my favorite was being able to joke around and sing with my friends!

What career or latest projects are you working on right now? What is your latest role at Encore? 

A big project that I am working on right now is building my TikTok page.  Over the past few years, I have had the best time making content and short videos about all of my interests online and have been really taking off recently.  TikTok has given me the opportunity to work with brands that I love and make content for them!  It is a really great creative outlet for me and cannot wait to continue making content.

This summer I am currently back at Encore as the Arts Management intern.  It is truly a wonderful full circle moment to know I am coming back to a place that feels like home to me and be on the other side of things and can be a role model to the new age of Encore kids.  While I am interning at Encore, I am also interning at another theatre in Washington, DC.  So you could say I have a busy summer ahead of me, but I could not be more excited to be working in the arts every day.

What Encore experiences or moment(s) were most memorable for you and why?
The most memorable experiences for me at Encore were the friendships I made through doing the productions.  Encore created a space that made everyone want to bond so much by bringing us together through making art.  I made so many lifelong friends through doing shows with Encore and could not be more grateful.  

What skills or lessons did you take away from your time at Encore?

What I gained so many skills through my time at Encore.  When Encore says “By Kids, For Kids”, nothing could be more true.  I learned how to sing, dance, act, build a set, make costumes, market a show, work with customers, and so much more.  Encore really set me up to work in theatre in any capacity and am constantly using the skills I learned here at college.

Were there any friendships or people who resonated with you at Encore?

I have made so many friends through Encore and met so many amazing people.  I met one of my best friends in the entire world through Encore, Hannah Knittig.  We met doing my first Encore show together all the way back in 2014 and ever since then have been best friends.  Even though we are not running around in fairytale costumes anymore and are adults living far from each other we are still so close because of the bond Encore built for us. 

Any words and wishes to share with students interested in trying out theatre? 

My biggest piece of advice for someone thinking about trying out theatre is to do your best to take all the different opportunities you can and put yourself out there because you won’t regret it.  There are so many different aspects to theatre that are more than just acting, including set building, sewing, crafts, education, marketing, and the list just goes on.  The theatre community is so special and I think there is a place for everyone in it.  So, if you have any inkling to get involved DO IT, it will be the best decision you will ever make for yourself.  

How has theatre and Encore impacted your life? 

Encore and theatre more than just impacted my life, it has made my life what it is.  Encore provided me with learning that the arts are my greatest passion.  Theatre has given me the relationships, confidence, and skills that make me the person I am today.  I know for a fact I will be working in the arts industry for the rest of my life and I have Encore to thank for that.  

Speaking of impact, we have an announcement! This summer we’re delighted to introduce the Encore Alumni group: The Encore Impact. Join us as we relive the Encore memories, rewind to the start of our journey, and learn how to give back to our Encore family!

Photo credit: Larry McClemons, Cindy Kane Photography, Aileen Pangan Christian | Other Photos Courtesy of Matthew Bloss-Baum

The post Meet 2024 Arts Management Intern Matthew Bloss-Baum appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

Tell us about yourself!

I was born and raised in Loudoun County Virginia. I have 2 older brothers and a younger sister. Theater has always been a part of my life. As a child I loved to create characters and act them out with my friends. My best friend and I had personas where we were doctors, and aliens from another planet. My grandparents would often take me to go see shows at the Kennedy Center. I started doing theater myself in 8th grade. My first role was The Mad Hatter in Alice In Wonderland Jr. I loved it so much I decided to pursue it when I went to college. I just recently graduated from George Mason University with a degree in Theatre.

What made your decision to apply for the Encore apprenticeship?

I wanted to immerse myself in theater. I have been teaching theater to young people since I was in high school. An apprenticeship allows me to gain more experience in what I love doing. I’m able to put what I learned in college to use so I don’t forget everything immediately. I found out about the opportunity through my friend Shannon who is also an arts apprentice here.

What Encore programs and projects have you worked on so far?

I have had the joy of working on the Nemo Ball, Flip the Script at Dorthy Hamm, and our different residency shows.

What shows, classes, or skills are you looking forward to learning during your time at Encore?

I look forward to getting to work on the Sound of Music in anyway that I can. I love that show and its been one of my favorites since I was 6.

Can you describe your favorite theater/performing arts experience and what made it so memorable?

During college I had a really crazy quick change where I had to quickly get my makeup put on and completely change my appearance in 15 mins.

What’s your favorite play or musical as an audience member?

Les Miserables, Sound Of Music

Why do you think performing arts are important for young people?

I think the performing arts allow young people to make important connections with other young people. The skills you learn from the performing arts are able to translate easily into other aspects of life. 

What is your dream character role or dream production to work on and why?

I would love to play Edna Turnblad in a professional production of Hairspray. 

What theme day should Encore have at the office?

Monochrome outfit day!

Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?

I hope to continue my job in the arts in many different ways as I continue to grow. 

We’re so glad to have Benji on the team and to teach our programs! Be sure to follow us on social for more behind the scenes with our apprentice team!

The post Meet 2024 Apprentice, Benji Lord appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

#1 – For the Nostalgia! 
This beloved story follows Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, who lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his child Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured, Marlin decides to face his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters such as the optimistic Dory, laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves. For those who loved the 2003 Pixar movie, you’ll fall in love all over again with this exciting musical!

#2 – The Musical Numbers! 
From “We Swim Together” to the “Big Blue World,” there are fun musical numbers for everyone to enjoy! We may even have a tap dancing shark in “Fish Are Friends Not Food.” 

#3 – The Under the Sea Ball on January 20
Join Encore for an anemone party to remember with the Under the Sea Ball on Saturday, January 20, 2024 following the 11am performance! Dress up in your finest fins and make your theatre experience a lasting family memory. Join Encore for delicious foods, fun arts and craft activities, and a chance to interact with the cast.

Choose Under the Sea Ball addon for Saturday, January 20, 11am performance
Ball Tickets Regular Price: $30

#4 – Don’t Miss the Great Coral Reef!
The colorful set is beautiful and something you don’t want to miss! See how we transport our audience to an underwater oasis! 

#5 – Stay Warm Indoors!  
It’s cold out there friends! Stay warm and dry this weekend in the theatre and enjoy the tropical sights! 

Performance Dates and Showtimes:
Fridays, January 12 at 7:30pm
Saturdays, January 13 at 11am and 3pm
Sundays, January 14 and 21 at 3pm

Location: Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre in Arlington, VA

Tickets: $15 for Adults, $12 for Children, Students, Military and Seniors

The post #FridayFive Series: 5 reasons to come see Finding Nemo Jr musical appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

#1 – Make Some Family Time at the Theatre!
Come see Finding Nemo Jr. musical and celebrate together at the Under the Sea Ball!

Join us for this underwater adventure in Encore’s production of Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr The Musical! This beloved story follows Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, who lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his child Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured, Marlin decides to face his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters such as the optimistic Dory, laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves. 

Join Encore for an anemone party to remember with the Under the Sea Ball on Saturday, January 20, 2024 following the 11am performance! Dress up in your finest fins and make your theatre experience a lasting family memory. Join Encore for delicious foods, fun arts and craft activities, and a chance to interact with the cast.

Choose Under the Sea Ball addon for Saturday, January 20, 11am performance
Ball Tickets Regular Price: $30 | Show Tickets: $12-$15 Location: Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre in Arlington, VA 

#2 – Sharpen Your Theatrical Skills This Winter
Sign up for our newest winter classes and what’s in store for the January holiday-mini camps!

#3 – Get Things Done Early!
Register for Summer Camp with Early Bird Savings!

There’s just 4 weeks left of the summer camp early bird sale! Make moves now to reserve your spot in for our popular titles such as the Wizarding World of Encore, Broadway Kids Disney and new ones like Matilda and Costumes and Design!  

In addition, register for FREE for the Summer Camp Open House! Students ages 3-15 will experience 30-minute sample classes of Encore’s award-winning camps. Parents and students will have the opportunity to meet teaching artists and Encore staff. Teens ages 16 and older can learn about our camp job opportunities!

Saturday, January 6, 2024 | 10am-12pm
Encore @ Cherrydale

#4 – Gain Leadership Experience through Encore’s Summer Jobs and Volunteer Opportunities!
Encore is seeking teens with a passion for theatre and a willingness to lead and act as role models at camp. Camp counselor (Ages 16+) application is now available online as well as our Counselor-In-Training (Ages 13+) application! These part-time positions provide students an opportunity to gain valuable, hands-on experience working with a nonprofit educational theatre company.

#5 – Make New Friends! 
Audition for Adventures of the Swiss Family Robinson!

Students aged 9 and older are invited to audition for the cast and students 12 and older may also interview for crew positions. No prior preparation is needed. 

Adapted from the classic book, this story follows the Robinson family who are shipwrecked on an uncharted tropical Island. Full of optimism, the family set out to explore the island and learn to live on it, joined by ship-wrecked talking-animals, a lot of bananas, and possibily pirates! Join us for a tale of suspense and courage in Encore’s production of the Adventures of the Swiss Family Robinson!

Tuesday, January 16, 2024 |  5:30-8:30pm
Encore @ Cherrydale (3701 Lorcom Lane, Arlington VA 22207)

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#1 – Attention Teens! – Apply for Encore’s Summer Jobs and Volunteer Opportunities!
Encore is seeking students with a passion for theatre and a willingness to lead and act as role models at camp. Camp counselor (Ages 16+) application is now available online as well as our Counselor-In-Training (Ages 13+) application! These part-time positions provide students an opportunity to gain valuable, hands-on experience working with a nonprofit educational theatre company.

Summer opportunities for college students and graduates will be up SOON!

2 – Try Something New–Enroll in Winter Classes and Camps!
Check out our newest class themes and what’s in store for the January holiday-mini camps!

3 – Plan Ahead and Sign up for Summer Camp with Early Bird Savings!
There’s only 5 weeks left of the early bird sale! Make moves now to reserve your spot in for our popular titles such as the Wizarding World of Encore, Broadway Kids Disney and new ones like Matilda and Costumes and Design!

In addition, register for FREE for the Summer Camp Open House! Students ages 3-15 will experience 30-minute sample classes of Encore’s award-winning camps. Parents and students will have the opportunity to meet teaching artists and Encore staff. Teens ages 16 and older can learn about our camp job opportunities!

Saturday, January 6, 2024 | 10am-12pm
Encore @ Cherrydale

4 – Get Your Guppy Family’s Tickets to Finding Nemo Jr. musical and the Under the Sea Ball!

Join us for this underwater adventure in Encore’s production of Disney’s Finding Nemo Jr The Musical! This beloved story follows Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, who lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his child Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured, Marlin decides to face his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters such as the optimistic Dory, laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves. 

Join Encore for an anemone party to remember with the Under the Sea Ball on Saturday, January 20, 2024 following the 11am performance! Dress up in your finest fins and make your theatre experience a lasting family memory. Join Encore for delicious foods, fun arts and craft activities, and a chance to interact with the cast.

Choose Under the Sea Ball addon for Saturday, January 20, 11am performance
Ball Tickets Regular Price: $30 | Show Tickets: $12-$15 Location: Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre in Arlington, VA

5 – Sign up for January Auditions!

Students aged 9 and older are invited to audition for the cast and students 12 and older may also interview for crew positions. No prior preparation is needed. 

Adapted from the classic book, this story follows the Robinson family who are shipwrecked on an uncharted tropical Island. Full of optimism, the family set out to explore the island and learn to live on it, joined by ship-wrecked talking-animals, a lot of bananas, and possibily pirates! Join us for a tale of suspense and courage in Encore’s production of the Adventures of the Swiss Family Robinson!

Tuesday, January 16, 2024 |  5:30-8:30pm
Encore @ Cherrydale (3701 Lorcom Lane, Arlington VA 22207)

Crossed off your entire list? Don’t forget Encore’s Special End of Year Giving Announcement!

 Gifts to Encore through December 31 will be matched dollar for dollar! We are grateful to three generous couples–John & Ginger, Brent & Elizabeth, and Jason & Liz–for matching gifts up to $5,000. Will you celebrate belonging at Encore with a special end of year gift? Remember, your gift will be DOUBLED!

Photo credit: Cindy Kane Photography and Josie Ziemski

The post #FridayFiveSeries: Here are 5 Final Things To Do Before Winter Break ENDS! appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

From content creation to leading the front of house crew, our 2023 Arts Management intern made a lasting impression. We’re so excited to reintroduce you to Josie Ziemski, our new Marketing and Development Coordinator!

We’re so glad to have you on our marketing and development departments! What made you want to return to Encore?
When I first started my internship, I was struck by how welcoming everyone in the Encore community was, whether that was the admin staff, the teaching artists, or the young actors and actresses! I was so excited to be able to take on a full-time role to continue working with such amazing people while doing work I truly enjoy! 

Looking back at your internship, what did you enjoy the most?

Over the summer, I enjoyed being involved in the summer camps – I was able to go and photograph many of the shows as well as creating the digital programs for the final performances! I loved being able to see the students growing their theatre skills- all while having a fun summer with Encore!

What project have you found the most exciting so far this season?

I find working on the programs for our 2023/2024 season shows to be so exciting. Though it is a lot of work, seeing the actors and actresses so excited to see the final program and excitedly flip through the pages on opening night makes me feel so happy. 

What are you looking forward to this 2023/2024 season?

This season, I am so excited to work with the front of house crews for each of the shows!

What have you learned about yourself on the Encore team?

I have only worked at Encore full-time for a little more than 3 months, but I have already learned so much about myself! I am definitely still learning a lot, but I learned and reflected about my design abilities as well as realize I thrive in fast-paced environments (even though sometimes I need a minute to catch my breath!)

Anything else you’d like to share?

I am so excited to continue with Encore and cannot wait to see what the future has in store!

Catch Josie at the box office and be sure to give a great Encore hello!

The post Meet our Marketing & Development Coordinator: Josie Ziemski appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.