Can you introduce yourself: name, grade, and why did you reach out about the Encore Cares program.

Hello everyone! My name is Gabby Wilson, I attend Kenmore Middle School as an 8th grader. I’ve been working with Encore for many years, whether that means being a 5 year old in Encores summer camps or acting onstage in their mainstage productions. Over the years I’ve grown very fond of Encore and the experiences I’ve had there. I was recently Bat Mitzvahed, whenever a child gets Bar/ Bat mitzvahed they have to do a service project to give back to the community. A few years back, two other  Encore participants did Encore Care projects for their Bar mitzvahs. Ever since I heard about this project, I’ve had my heart set on it. Encore is such a welcoming and happy place that I love to be part of, I’m glad to get the chance to give back to this amazing place.

What shows have you worked on with Encore (list cast and crew roles).

So far in my Encore career I’ve been a part of 8 mainstage productions. My cast roles include Toto in Enchanted Bookshop, a Squirrel in Narnia, Della Young in Enchanted Bookshop Christmas and most recently Blind Pew and Annie Bonny in Treasure Island. I also did backstage crew in The Hobbit as well as participating in front of house crew for Cinderella Commedia, Riley O’Brien and The Lost Leprechaun, plus Annie Jr. I definitely love doing all things theater but my favorite part of Encore is performing as an actor.

What has been one of your most memorable experiences at Encore?

I think some things that are really special at Encore are the memories and friendships you make. One thing that stands out to me was when I was in my first Encore show, The Enchanted Bookshop. I was one of the youngest people on cast. I was so amazed at being introduced to the theater. I remember looking up to the older kids and I gained a lot of knowledge from them. Not only was that show my first Encore show, it was my first anywhere show too! I think it’s awesome how at encore no matter your age, you are always learning. For example then I was learning where stage left is and now I’m learning more about things like timing and stage combat.

What skills have you gained in theater that will help you direct this production?

Because I’ve been able to work onstage, behind the scenes, and in front of the stage I believe what I’ve learned will definitely help me as a director. While rehearsing and pushing through long tech week hours I’ve learned what I like about rehearsal processes and what I don’t enjoy. Every director you will work with in the theater will have a certain distinctive style. As a 13 year old girl I definitely know my likes and dislikes. I will strive to do my best working with what I think would make me most successful, which I hope can transfer to you. I’d like to say that ive had many Encore experiences that will help me direct and lift this show higher.

In your own words can you tell us the story of Rainbow Fish and why you chose this play?

The Rainbow Fish tells the story of how a very arrogant fish becomes a humble swimmer. The Rainbow Fish is a gorgeous (and of course rainbow) and shiny fish, and he is well aware of his beauty and reminds everyone about his glamor. Other fish are awed by his presence but when they meet him and his cranky, self absorbed attitude, they quickly realize that beauty comes from within. Soon the Rainbow Fish realizes that it’s better to be kind. He goes on a search and then reaches his heart out to his neighbors. He apologizes for his past and is kind to the other sea creatures. He even demonstrates a big aspect of kindness : sharing. By sharing his most valuable items, his shiny scales. I chose this show because it teaches multiple life lessons and it’s good for a younger audience. It will also (hopefully) make you laugh.

Who are you presenting this production to and why is it important?

Regular mainstage Encore productions are usually shown to the community. The Rainbow Fish will also be shown to an elementary school extended day program. This is special to me because we are performing this production for kids who may not usually be able to see and experience theater. I also hope it can introduce Encore’s program to other families because Encore has most definitely changed my life in an amazing way. I want other kids and families to learn about this wonderful community.

What can our audience look forward to when they come to see the show?

If you are interested in seeing the show, for starters it would make me the happiest ever ;). At the show you should expect a quaint one act, one set show. It’s a family friendly show with laughs for anyone and everyone in the crowd.

Do you have tips for students at auditions?

I would be beyond delighted for you to audition. Here are some things I recommend for the most successful audition!

1. Be prepared: Come ready and with energy, make sure you’ve had a bite to eat and some water if possible.

2. Be in the best mindset possible: Stay positive and do your absolute best.

3. Stay focused as best as possible, the director wants to see how you work with others.

4. Act your best, I know this sounds kind of obvious but really, you should! Even if you mess up, do a movement wrong, flub a line, directors are more focused on how well you can act and project.

5. Have fun, enjoy yourself!

Thank you so much! I hope to see you auditioning on October 25! More information here: https://www.encorestageva.org/auditions/encore-cares/

Click here to sign up for an audition time slot today!

Photo credit: Cindy Kane Photography. Additional photos provided by Gabby Wilson.

The post Meet 2022 Encore Cares Student Director: Gabby Wilson appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

Tell us about yourself!
Amanda: I just recently graduated from James Madison University with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theatre Performance and Education. I was born and raised in a small town outside of Boston, Massachusetts so I grew up visiting Cape Cod and seeing theatre at the Boston Opera House. My whole family has been involved in the arts in one way or another, beginning with my Grammie on my mom’s side and grandpa on my dad’s side who were both professional actors!

Why did you apply for the Encore apprenticeship?
Amanda: I was looking for a great opportunity right after college where I could learn not only more about education, but also other processes that happen inside the theatre. I knew the position at Encore would allow me to develop a well-rounded passion for more than one department.

What shows, classes, or skills are you looking forward to learning during your time at Encore?
Amanda: I am looking forward to all the vast possibilities that will come to me this year! I began acting at the age of 5 so I especially enjoy getting involved in productions and helping any way I can with those. I am also looking forward to getting the privilege to teach a multitude of classes for all different ages. A skill I am especially excited to keep developing is my flexibility. Especially in the theatre and classroom, you really never know what curveball could be thrown your way so I would love to engage in situations that’ll keep me thinking and on my toes! Some of the best learning comes when you stray off schedule a little bit.

Can you describe your favorite theatre/performing arts experience and what made it so memorable?
Amanda: hat’s so hard! Something I really enjoyed was acting in my first show  post-pandemic because it was so refreshing to be back in the theatre after 2 years of online performances. Theatre for me is all about community and working together as an ensemble. So being able to be back in person with everyone to continue to build art was amazing!

What’s your favorite play or musical as an audience member?
Amanda: I have 2 very different answers for this! One of my favorite types of theatre to sit in the audience for is anything that conveys an important message. I believe that theatre has the capacity to make real world change and so being able to watch a show with a really driven message leaves me thinking about that show for a long time. My second favorite type of theatre to see is any Disney musical because that’s what I grew up watching and performing so it will always hold a place in my heart. If I had to choose shows I’ve seen professionally that left me speechless it would be Hadestown for the incredible ensemble; and Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella for the design!

Why do you think performing arts are important for young people?
Amanda: The performing arts are so incredibly important for young people because they can find a community that accepts everyone for who they are and allows everyone to shine in their own way! Being in theatre growing up allowed me to find a home outside of home and truly made me the person I am today. Not to mention the real life skills that theatre teaches! Including public speaking, collaboration, creativity, and so much more.

What is your dream character role or dream production to work on and why?
Amanda: My dream roles in theatre would definitely be Cinderella in Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella and Anastasia in Anastasia.

What theme day should Encore have at the office? (Explain why) Amanda: Encore should have different movie theme days where we pick a different movie each time and each pick a character from that movie!

Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Amanda: I <3 Encore!!

The post Meet 2022/2023 Arts Apprentice, Amanda Willis appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

2022 STAR Award Recipients:
Matthew Bloss-Baum
Jacob Bowen-Glazeroff
Riley Dennis
Nyla Elder
Jordan Funk
Bryce Gastelum
Lindsey Gradowski
Sebastian Ramthun
Sam Regardie
Declan Roberts
Brian Tatum

2022 Crewton of the Year Award: Sam Regardie

The post Congratulations to our 2022 STAR Award Recipients and Crewton of the Year! appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

Encore: Please introduce yourself, what are you up to now (jobs, projects, shows, etc.)?

Wyatt: My name is Wyatt Fenner and I am an actor living in New York City by way of Los Angeles. Most recently I’ve joined the cast of the Amazon Prime Digital series After Forever which was just nominated for six 2020 Daytime Emmy Awards, including outstanding Digital Drama Series, and is available to stream now. I’ve also recently workshopped several new plays which are in development and aimed for production when we are safely able to enjoy theatre again. After I finished up at Yorktown High School in Arlington I moved to Los Angeles where I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting from the University of Southern California. In my career on stage, I’ve worked on world premieres of new plays with amazing directors and writers including the late Terrence McNally, Moisés Kaufman, Darko Tresnjak, Michael Kahn, Samuel D. Hunter, Steve Yockey, Brian Christopher Williams, Bert V. Royal, and many other amazing artists.

Encore: Which years and productions were you involved in Encore?

Wyatt: My first production with Encore, at the time called Children’s Theatre of Arlington (CTA) was Sing Ho For A Prince in the winter of 1994-1995, in which I played one of the fairies. Next, I did just about every play I could for the next few years: Jack and the Magic Beans, Rhumba Tia, Robin Hood, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, The Jungle Book, Cinderella, and I worked on the technical crew for Snow White, and The Reluctant Dragon. Each of those summers I also attended the Stage Door summer camps in July, which included amazing classes and a huge end of session entire camp performance at the Lubber Run Amphitheater.

Encore: What was your most memorable moment at Encore and why?

Wyatt: My most memorable experience with CTA would be hard to pinpoint because the organization opened up an entire world to me that fundamentally change my life. My first memory is being in the hallway at the Gunston Arts Center in line to audition for Sing Ho for a Prince next to Katelyn Prominski. I’d never auditioned for a play before. Katelyn and I were the first two kids in line and nobody else was there yet. She’s a ballerina and was already an incredibly talented dancer, and so while we waited Katelyn was doing barre stretches and ballet warm-up exercises. I am not a ballet dancer and I had no idea what she was doing but it seemed as though whatever she was doing was what a person did while they waited for an audition so I just started copying her stretches. Like- as best as I could, I kind of just pretended I also knew exactly what I was doing and that this was very every day for me. I was in an environment I wanted to be a part of and I wasn’t sure exactly how to do that- but I wasn’t going to let that stop me. I’m sure I looked ridiculous but Katelyn didn’t make fun of me or tell me to stop copying her- she included me in the process.

Everyone I shared my time with at Children’s Theatre of Arlington operated with that generosity of spirit. That’s why it’s difficult to pinpoint a moment that was most memorable- helping each other do our stage makeup, pizza parties after the show, late-night trampoline parties on the weekends, the organization provided all of us a place to connect with other kids who were interested in being imaginative and open-hearted- and we all embraced and celebrated that about one another.

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

Wyatt: The biggest lessons I took away from Encore were the value of being myself with confidence and the importance extending the kindness and enthusiasm I appreciate in the world to the people I am working with and encountering day-to-day. Encouragement makes everyone better and kindness is always what matters most.

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

Wyatt: There were so many friendships that resonate deeply with me from my time creating with the Children’s Theatre, including many who I am still close with now. The one relationship that I am certainly especially grateful for is my partner Andrew. Andrew and I both attended the Stage Door summer camp when we were children and when we serendipitously reconnected at a weekend with a group of friends gathered in the country several years ago we immediately remembered one another from our friendship during our time together at Stage Door. We picked up right where we’d left off back then during those summers together at camp- and not long after that weekend, we fell in love. At Stage Door, we were in an environment where we were taught and given the space to laugh and share and inspire one another to do and be our best, which is how we spend our life together now- all in part thanks to those summers we were creating and using our imaginations together at Camp. We live together in Manhattan where I do my work as an actor and he works as a member of the legal team at Mount Sinai Hospital.

Encore: What have you been doing to stay creative at home?

Wyatt: Staying creative for me has involved reading, reading, reading, and more reading. I was already a big reader but now that the projects I had been looking forward to digging into are postponed, I’ve been spending several hours a day with whatever book I’m digging through. I find that reading is like going to the gym and getting a really good workout for my imagination. I’ve kept a journal since I was in middle school so I do that and I’ve also been cooking a lot of good meals for myself and Andrew and I’ve been doing the original 1982 Jane Fonda Workout (Advanced Version) every day- it’s a great workout and it’s fun. It’s important to stay fit in every way you can. Another wonderful creative part of the quarantine for me has been writing to and catching up with friends from a distance.

Encore: How has theatre and Encore impacted your life?

Wyatt: Theatre has always enriched my life by teaching me about what I don’t already know and allowing me to share what I’ve learned as well as my heart with the people who come to experience what I’ve created with me. Encore taught me that I have the ability to do so and gave me my first opportunities to discover this about myself.

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

Wyatt: Go for it! Have fun! Be brave and if that means standing up in front of a group of other kids to sing a song or if that means approaching a lunch table of kids you don’t feel like you know very well yet- go for it! You’ll learn so much about yourself by taking chances that might seem scary.

Many thanks to Wyatt for taking the time to share such lovely Encore memories with us! We appreciate you and wish you nothing but the best in all of your future projects.

If you or your family members find yourselves searching for connection and creativity during this uncertain time, please join us for a virtual summer camp program! Our staff has been hard at work developing engaging and unique virtual content since March and we can’t wait to share it with all of YOU!

Join us tomorrow morning (Saturday, May 30) for a fun and informative Open House event via Zoom as we share all about our summer camps both virtual and in-person! Virtually meet the teachers that will be joining us this year and see some of their special talents. Hear from the camp directors and learn their plans for taking summer online if necessary. Experience a sample class to get a taste of what a virtual camp program could look like for your students. Our staff will also be available to answer questions from the audience.

The post “Kindness and Enthusiasm” w/ Alum Wyatt Fenner appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

Encore: Please briefly introduce yourself. How did you get involved with Encore?

Gabby: I’m Gabby Simek and I’m in 10th grade at Arlington Tech. I was getting bored with my other activities, so my mom encouraged me to try Encore because she knew that I used to love theatre so much in middle school and still do. I wasn’t sure because I’m not much of an actor, but I tried tech crew and loved it. I did a summer camp last year, then my first official show was Disney’s Frozen Jr. last fall.

Encore: How long have you been participating in Encore productions and in which capacities?

Gabby: I have been participating in Encore’s productions for only one year. I started with Mary Poppins Jr. Tech Camp last summer. I’ve done three shows so far: Disney’s Frozen Jr, Narnia, and The Three Musketeers. I was planning to do The Frog Prince of Spamalot and West Side Story before the pandemic happened.

Encore: What are the biggest/most significant things you’ve taken away from working on Encore shows?

Gabby: I would say that the biggest thing I have taken away from working on tech crew is being able to trust your team. You have to be able to count on others to do their best and work hard, especially when something doesn’t go according to plan and we have to fix it quickly.

Encore: Do you have a favorite crew-related memory you’d like to share?

Gabby: My favorite memories are the downtime between shows or at rehearsal when we were done setting up and we could hang out and talk. We call it “nap time” because it gets really cold backstage so sometimes so we bring blankets to snuggle in and have “nap time” where no one actually sleeps but we all relax backstage and hang out.

Encore: Do you have any advice you’d give kids who might be interested in trying out for crew in the future?

Gabby: For future Tech kids, I suggest you try to make a healthy balance between the hard work and fun stuff we do. You have to find a way to be organized and stay on task but still can have lots of fun. Also, try out different jobs – I learned sound as well as backstage tasks this year. Next, I want to try out the lighting jobs. Then hopefully one day I can be a stage manager!

Encore: Describe Encore Stage & Studio in five words or short phrases.

Gabby: Wonderful. Loving. Fun. Hard work. Also The Best!!!!!!

Encore: Anything else you’d like to share?

Gabby: Tech crew was like a sanctuary for me because people understand how hard it can be to deal with school and personal problems. In tech, it was easy to make friends and find people who were willing to help and be there for you!

Many thanks to Gabby for taking the time out of her distance learning schedule to talk tech with us. Hopefully, we’ll be back in the shop and the theatre again soon!

If you’re interested in learning more about Tech Camp (as well as what virtual Tech Camp might look like, if need be), be sure to tune into our Instagram Live tomorrow at 1 PM. Production Manager Rebecca Pfeil will be interviewing Tech Camp director Kyla McLaughlin, as well as one of Encore’s tech-iest alums, Luci Harris. You won’t want to miss this shop talk, so follow us on IG today!

To learn more about both our in-person and potentially-virtual summer camp offerings, please join us for a virtual Open House event on Saturday, May 30th. Virtually meet the teachers that will be joining us this year and see some of their special talents. Hear from the camp directors and learn their plans for taking summer online if necessary. Experience a sample class to get a taste of what a virtual camp program could look like for your students. Our staff will also be available to answer questions from the audience. Registration is free and open now!

Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian, Kyla McLaughlin, and Cindy Kane Photography.
Additional photos provided by Encore participant Gabby Simek.
Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.

The post Simply “The Best” with Techie Gabby S. appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

How does theatre bring you joy?

Kyla McLaughlin: Getting to share in creating something that could only be made in that moment by the people there makes me feel connected and creative!

Aileen Christian: There’s always a story that unfolds– in the script, music, and choreography. It brings me joy to witness and experience how these different elements and talents come together to create something magical!

Madaline Langston: Theatre allows me to dream. To explore the possibilities beyond self.

Shannon McCarthy: Working on a production automatically puts you on a team. You are all working toward the goal of a successful show. Whether you’re playing a family onstage, coordinating with a tech partner to execute a scene change, or working on the production team, you are instantly bonded together. In a world where many connections are made from behind a distant screen, there’s something incredibly special about connecting with others through any art form, particularly theatre.

Share a significant moment when you experienced teamwork shine in a production.

Kyla: I love watching sets come down during strike! It’s exciting to see how quickly it all comes apart thanks to all the hands helping out.

Shannon: I think that the most significant example of theatrical teamwork that I’ve experienced would have to be my senior thesis directing project at Sweet Briar College. As a first-time director, it’s kind of outrageous that I selected She Kills Monsters as my script, but I was intensely drawn to the characters, the plotline, and (I will admit) the spectacle. The show is partially set in a fantasy Dungeons & Dragons universe, complete with monsters and mythical creatures. It was a huge undertaking that I could never have executed alone. I had to depend on my fellow students who had skills in lighting, prop construction, costume and makeup design, choreography, and more. It was a huge undertaking, but it came together beautifully.

Aileen: One of my favorite moments of teamwork is seeing Stage Door and Tech Camp all come together on their final performance every summer. It still amazes me how much is accomplished in just three weeks. The students want to learn and want to be there!

Madaline: During the Flip the Script tour, actors had to step into the role of understudies. During rehearsals, I loved watching the original cast sharing with the understudies so they could perform the characters as they were created. Because of the actors’ care of the characters and each other, everyone was invited to perform on the national stage (Millenium Stage at the Kennedy Center).

What does theatre teach us about empathy?

Madaline: When we have the courage to step out of our lives and invite someone in to share in their journey, it can be life-altering. Everyone has a story.

Jordan Wells: Theatre allows us to experience other people’s stories, stories that we may not have otherwise encountered. These new perspectives allow us to gain insight into the world around us and how events and situations can impact us all differently. In addition to teaching us the value of having empathy, theatre can also teach us the dangers that come with a lack of empathy.

Aileen: Theatre invites us to see what it’s like in another person’s shoes. I think that’s important to learn different perspectives outside our own and gain a higher understanding.

A.K. Nell: Theatre allows us to experience the life of someone else for a short while; and to do that, you end up stepping into their shoes, doing what they do, and feeling what they feel.

[Theatre] shows us that while it may not be our personal experience, we can live it and feel it too.

Kyla: Theatre not only asks us to read stories from around the world but to live the experiences of people from all over and from every time period. There’s always something more we can learn about ourselves from people who came before us or who live in completely different worlds than we do.

Shannon: As an actor, you can draw upon your own experiences, but that will only get you so far. Hopefully, you’ve had a pretty fortunate and happy life, but you may be called upon to portray a character that faces heartbreak, tragedy, or misfortune. You have to imagine how circumstances affect others outside of your circle of awareness and influence. I’m particularly aware of my own privilege right now during this global health crisis. Yes, I may be nervous about things and might not be able to find excess toilet paper, for example, but I’m so lucky to have a home, to have the ability to stock up on important supplies, etc.

Either onstage or backstage, how has theatre helped you be a leader?

Kyla: Theatre gives me opportunities to build and design things I wouldn’t have thought of in normal life and, through those creative projects, I get bigger and better ideas of things I could build in the future.

Jordan: Theatre has helped me be a leader by providing me a safe space to learn from others, so that I could ultimately serve as a role model for my peers.

Madaline: Whether you are an actor or a crew member, you have a responsibility to each other and the production. Each experience allows for growth. When you can perform your duties when no one is watching because it is the right thing to do, you are developing into a leader.

How has creativity helped you beyond theatre?

A.K.: Being creative is effective in my life in so many ways. I find myself being able to more easily problem solve, help others with more insight, and take projects to the next level. Creativity is a mindset, a way to approach the world.

Madaline: Creativity has taught me that there is always an answer. Be patient and work through it.

Kyla: Creativity helps me problem solve in every aspect of life and to find new ways of working with others and moving forward together.

Aileen: Creativity allows me to problem solve and be innovative, using what I have to make things work and press forward.

Shannon: Theatre helps you to not only think outside the box, but to think through, around, and under the box. To dismantle the box altogether and build something entirely new! I use these creative thinking skills every day as a marketer; we’re always trying to come up with new and exciting ways to share Encore’s programs with new potential students and audience members.

Photos by Aileen Christian and Cindy Kane Photography.
Blog contributions by the staff of Encore Stage & Studio.
Edited by Shannon McCarthy & Parker Nelson

The post Creativity & Joy with Encore’s Staff appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

I’m coming to you with a somewhat different blog today. Here on the blog, I like to keep things light, fun, and (usually) full of puns. Now, however, that isn’t the tone that feels quite right. The current state of the world is rather confusing and even a touch scary. Personally, I’ve found myself unmotivated to do much of anything beyond the bare minimum. But I’m here to let you know that it’s okay.

However you may be feeling, it’s okay to feel that way. It’s alright to feel mad that a big event got canceled after you’ve been looking forward to it. It’s just fine to feel sad and to miss your friends and other loved ones. It’s totally understandable to be feeling super stressed because many things around us are changing at what feels like an incredibly rapid pace.

When I’m feeling the much-ness of it all, I turn to stories: books, movies, phone calls with friends. I thought we could remember some stories together on the blog today. Here are some characters that have faced big feelings, of sadness, loss, fear, and more. They don’t let these feelings overtake them; they live through the experience with the help of loved ones and carry on to share their beautiful stories.

Horton the Elephant, Seussical
Horton is treated as an oddball by most of his neighbors, especially when he takes a clover full of invisible Whos into his care. He experiences many trials and obstacles in his journey to protect the small planet, but eventually is seen as the hero that the audience (and Gertrude McFuzz) has known him to be the whole time.

Princess Anna, Disney’s Frozen Jr.
After the untimely loss of their royal parents, Anna’s sister Elsa shuts her out to protect her from the future Queen’s unknown powers. After years of sadness and confusion, Anna manages to overcome both the emotional and physical barriers in her path to not only save the kingdom but to come together as a family once again.

Elle Woods, Legally Blonde
Faced with a blindside break-up and a broken heart, Elle doesn’t hide away from the world. She channels her sadness and frustration into gaining admission to Harvard Law School, finding true friends, knowledge, and personal confidence along the way, all the while dressed in style.

Eeyore, Winnie the Pooh
If creatures were weather, Eeyore would probably be a rainy day. That doesn’t stop his friends from including him on their Hundred Acre Wood adventures!

Sara Crewe, The Little Princess
When tragedy strikes, Sara is left alone in a girls’ school, faced with a bully, a lack of acceptance, and the whirlwind that comes when one’s world so rapidly changes. With grace and gumption, she rises above the negativity and finds her own happy ending.

Cinderella
Orphaned like so many fairytale heroes and heroines before her, Cinderella is left in the care of her evil stepmother and cruel stepsisters. She doesn’t allow the toil of endless chores and unkind words to make her hard. Instead, she remains kind and is blessed with a fairy godmother who helps her chase her dreams and chase her circumstances.

Take this moment to sit up a little straighter. Take a deep breath. Okay, now another one. Give yourself permission to feel, however that may be right now. Heck, it might even change in the next day, hour, or minute. That’s alright. We are all going through a huge series of changes. Let’s remember to treat one another and ourselves with an extra bit of kindness. I believe in you, friend. We’re going to get through this together. Stay safe and we’ll see you again soon, on the blog, in our virtual classes, and (eventually) at the theatre.

Take care,
Shannon

P.S. If you, like me, find yourself missing our Encore friends, please consider joining us in a virtual class or tune in for one of our Instagram Live chats with teaching artists, students, and more.

Photos by Connie Polnow, Larry McClemons, and Cindy Kane Photography. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.

The post It’s Okay to Feel… appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

Radio drama first started gaining popularity in the 1920s. As more people could afford radios in their living rooms, the demand for programming beyond news announcements grew. In 1922, Station WGY in Schenectady, New York, began producing weekly staged readings of plays. Soon, major radio stations all over the country began producing readings of plays with live music, sound effects, and troupes of actors. Many people who would later be pioneers of film and television, like both Ethel and Lionel Barrymore, Lucille Ball, and Rod Serling, got their start writing, performing, and producing radio plays.

By the early thirties, artists were writing plays specifically for the radio, taking into consideration specific qualities of radio that made it different from live theatre. One such radio drama, the 1924 French play Marémoto (“Seaquake”) by Gabriel Germinet and Pierre Cusy staged a soundscape of a realistic sinking ship before revealing that the characters were all actors in a theatre rehearsing a play. The play ran popularly in Germany and England but was banned in France until 1937 because the government feared ships would mistake the dramatic SOS messages in the opening sequence for actual distress signals. By using sound to set the realistic scene of a sinking ship, Gabriel and Cusy bring the audience into the emotion of that moment and make it real for them. Then, the actors break the audience’s illusion of this heightened moment of danger by bringing them suddenly into a very different space: a rehearsal. Not only was the twist exciting for audiences, who were used to receiving their drama exclusively on stages, but it tells us about the close connection between radio and theatre. Both are largely performed live and radio, unlike theatre at the time, had a unique ability to reach everyone regardless of where they lived or whether they could afford sometimes-expensive live theatre tickets. Radio also allowed artists to present music, stories, poetry, drama, and other work directly to thousands of families and individuals around the country all at once. It was simultaneously able to be mass-marketed and still feel personally moving.

In the late 2000s, the rise of online music streaming services like iTunes, Pandora, and Spotify created a familiar opportunity for writers, comedians, playwrights, and independent producers: the advent of podcasts. These platforms provided a public place where artists could produce their work to a large audience and make an income off of that audience’s engagement with their work. An individual with an idea and a microphone had the same opportunity as established radio stations to share their work with a potential audience consisting of anyone who had an internet connection. As podcasts have entered the mainstream, they’ve grown more diverse than ever and many rely on playwrights and actors who also work in television, films, and theatre to bring stories to life for their audiences. Some dramatic podcasts today revive old radio dramas or recreate them to celebrate the roots of the form.

With Susan Keady, winner of a 1996 Peabody Award for directing the radio show Kinetic City Super Crew, students will have the opportunity to explore a new (old) form of dramatic performance. Together, we’ll explore historical and modern radio drama scripts and build the foundations of vocal performance, script work, storytelling, and audience engagement. We’re so excited to share this opportunity to develop skills in producing and performing in radio.

In addition to Susan’s courses in radio drama, Encore is offering a robust line-up of programming for our Spring session. Classes for Grades 6-8 and 9-12 begin as early as next Thursday, April 16. Classes for Grades K-5 pick up starting in May, so now is the time to get signed up and invite all of your friends to join you before enrollment is full!

Photos by A.K. Nell, Aileen Pangan Christian, Shannon McCarthy, and Cindy Kane Photography.
Blog contribution by 2019/2020 Production Apprentice Kyla McLaughlin.
Edited by Shannon McCarthy.

The post Dramaturgy 101: Going Live w/ Radio Theatre appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

1) Belt It Out
Take a stretch break from online homework to turn your bedroom into your very own Broadway stage. Sing along to your favorite musical theatre tunes and dream of seeing your name in lights. Ready to take Center Stage? There are still spaces available in Encore’s production-based summer camps: Stage Door (ages 11-15) and Center Stage (ages 14-18)!

2) Get Crafty
Did you know that Encore has a Pinterest account with recipes, crafts, and activities related to specific shows in our season? Well, now you do! Come check it out and let your creative mind wander.

Are performance arts more your thing? Try creating an Encore theme song, rap, or dance. We’re not on Tik Tok, so we’ll leave the epic dance moves to our participants; tag it #EncoreTikTok and our awesome apprentices will take a look for us. We would love to see all of your wonderful creations; tag us @EncoreArlington!

3) Bust a Move
Release some of that pent-up energy in a way that’s creative, fun, and helpful! Invite your family members to a dance party. You can put on a playlist of your favorite songs or even take it to the next level. Check out some choreography videos on YouTube, like these from Disney on Broadway, and do your best to learn the routines. This will keep your body moving and help you pick up skills that will help you in future auditions!

4) Connect with a Board Member
Wondering what to do with your free time? Consider reaching out to the Arlington County Board (please get family help and permission if you’re under 18!). Let them know how much you appreciate their support of the arts in Arlington and how the arts have positively impacted your life. It’s important that Board Members continue to hear from their constituents. You can find a listing of contact information on our #ARLSaveOurStage page; thank you again to all those who came together last spring to celebrate and defend the arts in our county.

Looking for another way to support Encore’s mission during this period of social distancing? RSVP to our annual Benefit Breakfast, currently scheduled and on-track for April 29, 2020. Spread the word, invite your friends and colleagues, and consider making a gift to safeguard Encore’s important goals in this uncertain time. We thank you in advance for all of your assistance and support!

5) Catch Up on The Front Row
Take a break from streaming to catch up on the awesome interviews, advice, and information that The Front Row blog has to offer. Hear from our students and alumni, learn from our staff, and more. You’re already here; what’s another post or 10…

6) Run the Rehearsal
Auditions for The Frog Prince of Spamalot got moved to April, but that doesn’t mean you have to wait to participate in a production. Now is your chance to assume the role of casting director and choose your cast. Get together with some friends on Zoom or Google Hangouts and put on an informal reading of a script! Unsure how to begin? Try searching for public domain scripts. We’ll give you a great place to start: MIT’s unabridged collection of Shakespeare’s complete works. Start with a scene and watch what happens!

7) Show Us Your Spirit
In case you missed our last post, we’re currently celebrating Encore with a week of spirit days! So far, we’ve seen woodland creatures, villains, and more! Tag us @EncoreArlington and #EncoreSpringSpirit to join in the fun.

We’re excited to announce that there will be another week of themes…decided by YOU! Vote in our poll or send us a message with your theme day suggestion and it might make it into the final round.

Looking for more tips and activities? Our Education team sent some awesome age-specific suggestions to our mailing list. Want the content? Fear not! Subscribe to our list, then send us an email at info@encorestage.org; we’d be happy to send a copy your way!

We’re grateful to all of our Encore family for all of the love, support, and laughter during this uncertain time. Remember: “We’re all in this together!”

Photos by Kyla McLaughlin, Aileen Pangan Christian, Larry McClemons, Clarence Chan, and Cindy Kane Photography.
Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.

Many of you have been following the news about the new coronavirus. We are following the guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as well as local and state public health authorities, to safeguard our participants’ health and well-being. For more information about Encore’s response to COVID-19, please visit our website.

The post #IndoorEncore: Fun Ideas for Theatre at Home appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.

What was your position on the last production of The Three Musketeers?

Kerstin: It was my first Encore show on crew at age 12.

Encore: What’s your position on this production?

Kerstin: I’m proud to serve as the Stage Manager on this production of The Three Musketeers.

Encore: What do you remember from the first production?

Kerstin: My first time building in the scene shop! I learned to use power tools, paint sets, and apply lots of glitter! I just remember there being glitters everywhere.

Encore: How is stage managing different from other positions you’ve had on Encore shows?

Kerstin: Good question! I take notes throughout the rehearsal process to keep all of the production staff fully updated on decisions and the support needed [lights, props, etc.] to get the show ready. I make sure that everyone is present and ready for their cues. During the run of the show, I call all of the cues that bring the show together – lights, sound, flies, and set changes.

Encore: What does a typical rehearsal look like for you?

Kerstin: I show up early and set up the room. As I already said I take lots of notes, including blocking notes which are the record of where every actor is placed in the scene and what they should be doing. I always follow the rehearsal closely and have the script handy, ready to prompt an actor that needs my help with lines or stage direction. I also play warmup games and read for absent actors. And, at the end, I return the room to order and ensure that every actor has been picked up safely.

Encore: How is it working with a director as a stage manager?

Kerstin: I love working with Jim Clancy! I appreciate how intentional he is about the history and character development in this show. Being up close with his creative process has been a real treat.

Encore: What stands out about this rehearsal/production process compared to the first?

Kerstin: It was my first show so really didn’t understand much about what happened for the creative process for the first go ‘round. It’s been really fun doing it again and understanding so much more!

Encore: Has your perspective on The Three Musketeers changed at all? How?

Kerstin: The script is even funnier now that I can see cast re-interpret the same story and add their own talent to every part.

Major thanks to Kerstin for taking time out of a busy school/production week to share her reflections with readers of The Front Row. Come witness the magic that this stage manager facilitates during this production, now playing its final weekend!

Remaining Performance Dates and Showtimes:

Friday, March 6, 2020 at 7:30pm
Saturday, March 7, 2020 at 11am and 3pm
Sunday, March 8, 2020 at 3pm

Photos by Caitlyn Barron and Cindy Kane Photography.
Graphic design by Aileen Pangan Christian and Aimee Pangan.
Blog contribution by 2019/2020 Production Apprentice Kyla McLaughlin.
Edited by Shannon McCarthy.

The post From Backstage to the Booth: Musketeer Reflections w/ Kerstin F. appeared first on Encore Stage & Studio.