Carole Russo is an Encore parent, volunteer, and as of this year, Encore’s Board President. Her oldest daughter’s theatre bug first brought the family to Encore and this year her youngest will start auditioning. We sat down with Carole to talk about her Encore journey, her vision for the organization, and her holiday wishes.
How did you first come to Encore?
It all started with the fourth grade musical at her elementary school. Once my daughter had a small taste of being onstage doing musical theatre, she wanted to try out for another show. Encore Stage & Studio to the rescue! Time for auditions. And disappointment. Not one, but two times. Luckily, Encore offered a pre-audition workshop and her skills – and confidence – improved.
And she was picked to be the 11th dancing princess in the 12 Dancing Princesses. She learned about stage presence. She learned how to put on stage makeup from the older actors. She learned how to be on time. She learned where the microphones were onstage, and why actors have to wear jazz shoes with leather soles. And she found her people.
The 11th princess poses with her grandparents, post-performance.
What is your vision for Encore?
I would love for more children to be a part of something bigger than themselves, like my daughter was. To try something they’ve never done before. To use their imagination. To express an emotion and tell a story.
What will it take to make it possible? More after-school classes. More full-scale productions. More creative play with the Healthy Play Initiative in partnership with AFAC (The Arlington Food Assistance Center). More scholarships for students to attend shows and participate in camps.
It will take an organization supported by all parts of the community including parents, community members, Encore alumni, local government, business, and the artistic community. More volunteers, more carpools, more jazz shoes.
And more financial backing.
Why should folks consider Encore for their holiday season giving?
Can we continue to provide kids in northern Virginia with the chance to take a risk, be a part of a team, learn to trust one another and make some great theatre? I suggest a resounding yes.
Because Encore provides all of this great inspiration and makes northern Virginia a unique and special place where kids can be kids while stretching their boundaries.
Sometimes the greatest gift you can give another person is to include them, and that’s what Encore is all about.
P.S. We’ll be back soon at auditions soon with my younger son and daughter. The cycle continues!
P.P.S.S. Did you know that you can donate your car to Encore? That’s what we’re doing with a beloved vehicle that is past its useful life. Click here to find out more and enjoy that newfound garage space!
Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian, Larry McClemons, Cindy Kane Photography, Rebecca Pfeil, and Carole Russo. Blog contribution by Rosemarie O’Connor.