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Local Voices

Encore Stage & Studio Celebrates 47 Seasons of Theatre by Kids, for Kids!

On Tuesday, April 8, 2014, friends and supporters celebrated together in honor of Encore Stage & Studio’s 47 years of Theatre by Kids, for Kids. Over 120 benefactors enjoyed an entertaining program at the Washington Golf & Country Club hosted by Encore’s Board of Directors Secretary Ashby Rushing, while learning about Encore’s many accomplishments and vision.

During the program, high school seniors Walter Lohmann and Lauren Monsivaiz shared their Encore theatrical journey, reflecting on their personal growth from the impact of the organization. Followed by their testimonials was a performance by Encore’s Musical Theatre Intensive class of “New York, New York” from the musical, On The Town. This exciting and challenging program is offered to students grade 8 through 12 and is designed to put vocal and dance skills into action. Students work once a week with choreographer Kelsey Meiklejohn and Music Director Douglas Ullman, Jr. to sharpen their musical skills both in the classroom and onstage.

Encore Stage & Studio also honored Robin Baxter with the 2014 Celeste Award for outstanding volunteer. Robin Baxter served as Board President from 2006-2009 and as a Volunteer Executive Director 2009-2010, and is currently a member of Encore’s Programing Committee. Robin’s early life was enriched and formed by children’s theater participation, beginning in a community children’s theater in Northern Virginia. Through three other community and children’s theater productions, Robin learned all the great things that Encore provides its participants: teamwork, confidence, literacy, public speaking, history, culture and more.

Meanwhile, breakfast guests traveled back in time to the theatre's fall production of The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe with Encore participants Isabel Tate and Laura Wade as Lucy Pevensie and Mr.Tumnus, performing a short scene recognizing Encore’s programs and donation opportunties. To learn more about Encore Stage & Studio visit www.encorestage.org 

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