5 Fantastic June Highlights
In case you haven’t heard, June is “bustin’ out all over.” As we head into the weekend, we’re happy to look back at what this first month of summer has held for Encore. We’re even more excited to share with our readers all the fun and adventure that await us in the coming months.
Although it made last month’s highlights as well, we’re still over the moon about our Homecoming Season Reveal that took place on June 2nd. For the 2019/2020, Encore Stage & Studio will be returning to our home of Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre. Single tickets won’t be on sale until later this summer, but you can guarantee your best seats (and score some awesome Encore swag) by becoming a Season Member today. Purchasing a Membership is a huge and significant way to demonstrate your love for Encore and your trust that we will produce a season of quality productions.
Make New Friends and Keep the Old
With summer getting off to a running start this month, Encore saw many faces, new and returning alike. Camp training on June 5th brought together our wonderful team of camp directors, teaching artists, and camp aides as we prepared for an amazing #EncoreSummer. We also have six talented and creative interns joining us in various departments: Education, Marketing, and Production. Did you miss our interview with this year’s Arts Management intern, Brian? Click here to check it out!
On the Road Again
June brought Encore staff and students an exciting new opportunity – taking a production on tour! After two weekends of amazing shows, our world premiere of The Talented Clementine, based on the young readers’ series by Sara Pennypacker, got to travel to Little Washington, Virginia. The cast performed in the Theatre at Little Washington on June 15th, adding yet another first to this cast’s series of accomplishments and sharing the magic of “Theatre by kids for kids” with a whole new community.
Ready to rack up some accomplishments of your own? Check out the link for audition dates for Encore’s 2019/2020, then be sure to share on Instagram which shows you’re going out for! (Tag us @EncoreArlington!)
Off to the Races
Two weeks of summer camp have already flown by and we’re buzzing with excitement about everything that’s to come! Is your favorite camp close to selling out? Click here to find out!
Makin’ Front Page News
The cast of Newsies is hard at work, learning lines, drilling harmonies, and cleaning intricate dance numbers. From gorgeous notes to intense dance numbers, gorgeous costumes to unforgettable tunes, you won’t want to miss this show. “Seize the day” and buy your tickets now!
Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian, Alana Gibson, and Gemma Roberts. Graphic designs by Aileen Pangan Christian. Instagram template designed by Gemma Roberts. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
#EncoreSummer By the Numbers
Gather round the campfire, bust out the popsicles, and jump in the deep end, because summer is officially here! In today’s #TechTuesday, we’re breaking down the summer by the numbers, including which camps are getting close to selling out – so tune in, scroll down, and get ready to have a summer that’s a full 10 out of 10.
Set in turn-of-the century New York City, Newsies is the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged “newsies.” When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right!
58 Summer Staff Members
The saying goes that “it takes a village to raise a child.” If that’s the case, it takes at least a small suburb to run a summer of educational programming:
6 Camp Directors
4 Locations
20 Teaching Artists
7 Interns (1 Stage Management, 5 Education, 1 Arts Management)
25 Camp Aides
Countless parents, siblings, friends, and more
25 Unique Camp Opportunities
From musical theatre fans to Shakespeare buffs, the smallest theatre explorer to the most experienced young actor, our #EncoreSummer has something to offer each student. With one, two, and three-week programming, there’s a way to fit “Theatre by kids, for kids” into the lives of your family this season.
11 weeks of It’s Elementary
5 weeks of Pre-K – NEW!
11 weeks of Scenes for Tweens
6 weeks of Stage Door
6 weeks of Tech Camp
3 weeks of Center Stage – NEW!
16 Early Childhood Opportunities
46 It’s Elementary Openings
17 Chances to Make Scenes (with) Tweens
1 Chance to Join in on the Stage Door/Tech Camp Fun
July 22-August 9, 2019: Tech Camp: Mary Poppins Jr. – 1 spot
From Encore’s many camps to our epic summer musical, community performances at Lubber Run, and more, there’s an adventure waiting for every theatre explorer! We can’t wait to celebrate the summer season with our Encore family, so don’t be a stranger. Questions? Give us a call at 703-548-1154 or shoot us an email at info@encorestage.org. Happy summer!
Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian, Rebecca Pfeil, and Connie Polnow. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
Encore Named #OneOfTheBest by Catalogue for Philanthrophy
After a careful vetting process, the Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington has selected Encore Stage & Studio to be part of the Class of 2019-20. Encore has undergone a rigorous review process conducted by a team of 150+ local experts, and has met the Catalogue’s high standards. Potential donors can be confident that the nonprofits in the Catalogue are worthy of their support. Encore’s mission is to build lifelong appreciation for live theatre by involving young people in all aspects of theatre arts — onstage, backstage, in the classroom, and in the audience.
This year the Catalogue celebrates its 17th anniversary: since its inception it has raised $40 million for nonprofits in the region. It also offers trainings and neighborhood-based opportunities for collaboration.
This year, reviewers helped select 78 nonprofits to feature in the print edition, 36 of which are new to the Catalogue this year. It also selected an additional 36 nonprofits to be re-featured on its website. The network now includes 400+ vetted nonprofits working in the arts, education, environment, and human services sectors throughout Greater Washington.
“People want to get involved in their community—they want to make a difference, close to home. Based on our rigorous review process, we believe that Encore [Stage & Studio] is one of the best community-based nonprofits in the region,” says Matt Gayer, Director of Community and Nonprofit Development at the Catalogue for Philanthropy.
Encore’s Executive Director, Sara Strehle Duke, stated, “It is such an honor to be selected for the Catalogue. Inclusion is recognition of our hard work and a seal of approval from the non-profit community. The Catalogue gives us a much larger platform to share the power of ‘theatre by kids, for kids.’ ”
The Catalogue believes in the power of small nonprofits to spark big change. And they believe in Encore to continue to further that positive change, working each day to lift up, strengthen, and enrich our local community.
Photos by Cindy Kane Photography and Aileen Pangan Christian. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy and Matt Gayer.
Meet Arts Management Intern, Brian Hernandez
A festive #FrontRowFriday to all of you Encore fans out there. School’s out and we can’t stop smiling, especially because we’ve got a new friend joining Encore’s team for the summer. A talented artist, snappy dresser, and all-around funny guy, meet Brian:
Encore: Please briefly introduce yourself. What’s your background in the arts? How will you be working with Encore this summer?
Brian: My name is Brian Hernandez. I recently graduated from James Madison University with a BS in Studio Art/Art Education. I also had a minor in Music Industry. This summer, I’ll be the intern here at Encore for Arts Management! I’ve been involved with the arts for as long as I can remember. Loved music class all throughout elementary, was in choir since 5th grade, performed in The Addams Family my senior year in high school. When I got to college, I knew I wanted to continue performing so I joined the show choir (The Madisonians) and performed with them for 9 semesters, and did Gospel choir for a semester. I was also on the Latin Dance Team (Grupo Candela) where I was active for all five years and I was captain of the team my senior and super-senior year. That’s just performing arts. As for visual arts, I concentrated in Sculpture and I pursued art education where I loved being able to share my knowledge of the arts to my students.
Encore: Which part of your internship has you most excited? What kinds of projects will you be working on?
Brian: I enjoy creating and designing so I’m really stoked about that aspect of the internship. I’ve already made a couple of flyers and forms and I’ll be helping out with Newsies so I’m optimistic that it will be a grand time. I’m looking forward to familiarizing myself with the company and the efforts that go into making this place successful.
Encore: Describe your favorite moment of theatre/performing arts you’ve ever experienced.
Brian: I think my favorite moment of performing was the time that my dance team and I won the collegiate Salsa/Bachata collegiate competition. We were personally invited to the Congress in Richmond to perform against four other schools (GMU, UVA, VT, and W&M) and when they announced that we had won, I was so proud of my team. We went out to celebrate and the road trip back was something I will never forget.
Encore: How have the arts impacted you personally?
Brian: The arts have impacted me in such a positive way. They’ve made me more confident in myself; I’ve been able to network and make incredible connections, and the arts have made me realize that I should never apologize for being myself. I’m happy I’ve been able to pursue my passion and do what I love every day. The arts have made me realize that the only person that can stop me from being an artist is myself and it’s been so empowering. The professional experiences, critiques, breakdowns, and praise, have all led me to be the person I am today and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Encore: Why do you think the arts are important in the lives of young people?
Brian: The arts are important because they allow for creative expression and individualism. I think this comes from me being an art educator but I think it’s so important for young people to be able to express themselves and discover and make their world how they want to make it. Also, young people have to grow up in a constant state of acceptance. [They’re always faced with:] “Am I cool enough? Am I pretty enough? Oh, I can’t draw as good as this person. Oh, their painting looks so much better than mine. Oh, I can never sing/act/dance as good as them”. The list can go on and when a kid doesn’t have that support that the arts can bring, it can be pretty devastating. Now, I could go on a tangent about how society views the arts and gender, and representation and all that, but I’ll just say that I think the arts are critically important in the lives of young people.
Encore: Give us a question you wish we’d asked you and, of course, your answer:
Brian: I wished you’d have asked me what my favorite Disney movie is to which my answer would be Tarzan!
Thanks for taking the time to chat with us, Brian! We can’t wait to see what fun and creative projects come out of your time here at Encore this summer. Want the chance to meet this talented intern yourself? He’ll be working with our Front of House crew at our production of Disney’s Newsies, so get your tickets today!
Performance Dates and Showtimes
Art by Brian Hernandez. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
Your 2019 #EncoreSummer Bucket List
Greetings, Encore friends! With our first two camps starting on Monday, summer has most definitely arrived here at Encore. Our summer is jam-packed with wonderful events and opportunities, so we here at The Front Row have created a quick and easy #EncoreSummer Bucket List to get you started:
Haven’t signed up for summer camp yet? Well, you’re in luck, because we still have availability in many of our programs, especially for ages 3-5, 5-9, and 8-12! With a selection of one- and two-week programs, there’s an awesome camp adventure for every camper and schedule.
Catch the Headlines
Our Newsies cast is hard at work, drilling harmonies, memorizing lines, and tapping away every day to get one step closer to perfection. Our staff is certainly filled with anticipation. “Waitin’ makes me antsy,” so be sure to get your tickets to this energetic musical today.
Join the Team
With the announcement of Encore’s 2019/2020 Homecoming Season, we’re in recruitment mode. We’re looking for audience members with the loudest laughs, the strongest claps, and the biggest smiles. Think you’ll make the cut? Your chances will be even better from the best seats in the house, so become a Member today! Plus, you’ll score a sweet Members-only Encore tote bag.
Take In a Show
Can’t get enough of theatre? We’ve got four more productions coming your way this summer, courtesy of our Stage Door and Center Stage camp programs: Willy Wonka Jr, Sense and Sensibility, Mary Poppins Jr, and Into the Woods Jr. Grab a friend and come out to support “Theatre by kids, for kids!”
Let It Go
In case you haven’t heard, we’re more excited than a rock troll and a reindeer to be producing Disney’s Frozen Jr. next season. Mark your calendars for auditions, August 5 & 6, 2019!
Stay in the Loop
Already looking beyond summer? We’ve got you covered. Be sure to sign up for our email list to receive notice when our fall theatre classes go on sale. We’ve got some new and engaging classes and themes in the works; you won’t want to miss out.
From all of us here at Encore, we wish you the best summer possible. Tag us (@EncoreArlington) in your adventures as you work to complete your #EncoreSummer Bucket List – we can’t wait to see where this summer takes you!
Photos by Connie Polnow, Larry McClemons, Haley Olivenbaum, Aileen Pangan Christian, and Cindy Kane Photography. Encore jerseys designed and created by 2018/2019 Arts Apprentice Alana Gibson. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
“An Exercise in Courage” with Emma Kiely-Hampson
A spirited #TechTuesday to all of you Encore fans out there! Today, we’ve got a special treat for our blog readers. We managed to snag the reporter of Newsies herself for a behind-the-scenes scoop on auditions, rehearsals, and more. Read on to hear from Encore’s latest star and “Watch What Happens”:
Encore: Please briefly introduce yourself. What is your background? How have you been involved in the arts in the past?
Emma: I’m Emma Kiely-Hampson! I’m playing Katherine in Encore’s production of Newsies. Musical theatre has always held a large piece of my heart. I’ve always loved to sing and just adore theatre as an art, so from middle school through undergrad I was involved in many productions, both on and off the stage, such as Thoroughly Modern Millie, Meet Me in St. Louis, and Brundibar.
Encore: How did you hear about auditions for Newsies? What made you want to audition?
Emma: I heard about auditions through a friend and decided that since I hadn’t been involved in theatre for about four years, it would be a fun show to dip my toes back into theatre with. I’d seen Newsies in both film form and on stage and it has always been one of my favorite shows. I am so excited to be a part of it.
Encore: What’s been the biggest challenge in rehearsals so far?
Emma: So far the largest challenge for me in rehearsals has been dancing, specifically tap dancing. I’ve never been too light on my feet, so having to train my body to do it and get out of my head in order to get the dance moves right has been hard. Every time I do get it right, it feels amazing, and I have great teachers and cheerleaders in our choreographer and my other cast members.
Encore: Have you had any “Ah ha!” moments during the rehearsal process?
Emma: My biggest “Ah ha!” moment in the rehearsal process has been when learning (really unlearning and relearning) the music and pace in Katherine’s solo. The song ends on a note that is right on the break of my voice, in between my head-voice and chest-voice range. I was struggling to get the note and not feel strangled. When our music director coached me through it, saying, “Open all of the notes around it,” I could feel my vocal chords get it when I tried again. It was a great feeling, and though I don’t get it right every time, I know I am capable and am confident I can do it.
Encore: What has you most excited about this role and/or production?
Emma: I am most excited about playing Katherine because of who she is; she is a rebel in her own right, though she isn’t of the newsies’ world. She is both sure of herself and trying to prove herself, which is something I’ve felt many times. Though she is anxious about getting things right and making things right, she never backs down, even though she has her doubts about success. And of course, this show is filled with powerful music that, even if Katherine isn’t a part of it onstage, I end up singing because I know it’s part of her heart too.
Encore: What advice would you give to other performers?
Emma: My advice to other performers would be always audition for that show you want to be in, even if you don’t think you’re as good as you need to be. Auditioning is an exercise in courage, and sometimes you have to push yourself farther than you think you are capable of going. Also, remember that your castmates are your teammates. You’re all playing towards the same goal: a great and exciting show. Because of this, it’s so important to treat everyone with kindness and grace: we will all make mistakes or miss something, but remembering that we all will do it and they are there for you is vital. Always support your castmates.
Encore: Describe Encore’s production of Newsies in three words or short phrases.
Emma: Two words and one small phrase to describe this show: Powerful. Exciting. Important for today’s world.
A huge thanks to Emma for taking the time to share her experiences and wisdom with all of us. We look forward to cheering her on from the audience as she taps like crazy and sings her heart out in Newsies, opening July 19th! Get your tickets today and join the fray:
Performance Dates and Showtimes for Disney’s Newsies
Photos by Shannon McCarthy, Joshua Hampson, Gemma Roberts, and Kim Kiely Photography. Video by Aileen Pangan Christian. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
May’s Marvelous Highlights
Spring Classes Took a Bow
After a year of awesome theatre classes here at Encore’s Main Campus, ranging from Broadway to Shakespeare and comedy to play writing, our Spring session wrapped up with many wonderful sharings for families and friends. Our 2019/2020 roster of classes will be announced later this summer, so be sure to sign up for our email newsletter to stay in the loop.
Rocket Woman Blasts Off…Until This Summer
Encore’s newest Theatre for the Very Young production had a fantastic final weekend of shows, closing out to large audiences full of enthusiastic space explorers. Be sure to catch Encore’s Theatre for the Very Young special presentations as part of Lubber Run’s free concert series this summer.
Making Headlines
Last month saw over 90 potential newsies come out to audition for the summer production, with over 20 people auditioning for crew. With such a great selection to choose from, this production is jam packed with talent. Rehearsals are already well underway, so be sure to get your tickets today!
Teachers Gonna Teach
This May, Encore celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week with a special ticket offer to honor the educators that brighten all of our lives. Looking for the perfect end of the school year gift for the teachers in your life? Consider giving them the gift of “Theatre by kids, for kids” with an Encore gift certificate!
Celebrating Rosemarie with a Disney Villains theme day!
So Long, Farewell
This month we bid a fond farewell to Encore’s first-ever Development Associate, Rosemarie O’Connor. Starting with Encore as a show participant, learning through a summer internship, and going on to grow Encore’s grant funding and donor relations, Rosemarie has certainly been a vital part of our organization. With her sunshiny smile, love of puns, and flawless sense of style, she will definitely be missed.
We Are the Champions
For the second year in a row, Encore Stage & Studio is honored to be recognized by the Arlington Partnership for Children, Youth and Families. Artistic Director Susan Keady was named a Connect with Kids Champion in 2018. This year, Encore as an organization was named a Do for Kids Champion, with Aileen Christian, A.K. Nell, and Sara Duke all receiving notable mentions in the nomination process. We’re so grateful for everyone who supports Encore and allows us to further connect within our community.
Another Opening, Another Show
The last day of May brought a much anticipated moment: the world-premiere opening night of The Talented Clementine! Opening night buzzed with excitement during our pre-show celebration, while author Sara Pennypacker met patrons and graciously signed copies of her books. The cast certainly let their talents shine as they dazzled our enthusiastic crowd. Haven’t seen the show yet? You have one weekend of local performances left, followed by a special touring event, so don’t wait!
Psst…
Although the event technically happened on June 2nd, we just can’t contain our excitement: Encore’s 2019/2020 Homecoming Season has been revealed! Check it out right here on The Front Row, then show some hustle and sign up for an Encore Membership. You’ll be able to choose your seats before anyone else, plus you’ll receive an exclusive Encore tote!
Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian, Alana Gibson, and Cindy Kane Photography. Encore jerseys designed and created by 2018/2019 Arts Apprentice Alana Gibson. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
5 Life Skills Children Cultivate in the Performing Arts
People join the Encore family through many different avenues. Some come to us first as audience members during our season of shows. Others have a blast during summer camp and decide to come back for more. Still more find Encore through our auditions for cast and crew throughout the year. There’s yet another path that perhaps you haven’t considered: after-school enrichment. Encore partners with PTAs and enrichment partners to bring fun and creative theatre-based classes to students grades K-8 across several counties. Read on to learn how bringing theatre into your school can benefit the young learners in your life.
Photo by Clarence Chan
#1 – Empathy
Theatre allows children to imagine themselves, however briefly, in the story of someone oftentimes very different from them. This act helps young people relate to others and to value differences in experience, opinion, and circumstances.
#2 – Confidence
Creative spaces offer children a place to take big risks and fail safely. This helps kids grow confidence in their abilities and ideas, both in the classroom and out in the world.
#3 – Teamwork
Theatre is most definitely a team sport. Drama classes help children develop effective and kind communication methods by cultivating positive working relationships: between actors in a scene, between actor and director, between director and creative team, and more!
Photo by Clarence Chan
#4 – Creative Problem Solving
Theatre enrichment sets the stage for imagination and creative problem solving. Students ask, “How can we create a castle or a spaceship here in our classroom?” They achieve their goals by working and learning together.
#5 – Leadership
Theatre transforms students into leaders. When challenges arise, students use their collection of skills to keep the show moving forward. Students learn how to empower their peers and be positive role models onstage and off!
Ready to roll out the purple carpet and bring Encore Stage & Studio into your school for after-school enrichment? Interested in Encore facilitating your school play? Contact Education Programs Director, Madaline Langston, to get started: madaline.langston@encorestage.org.
Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian, Clarence Chan, and Connie Polnow. Video edited by Shannon McCarthy. Blog conbribution by Shannon McCarthy.
Encore’s Coming Home! 2019/2020 Season Revealed
The secret is out! On Sunday, June 2nd, Encore Stage & Studio revealed its 2019/2020 season with a fun pre-show pep rally, complete with cheers, jerseys, and a banner. The homecoming theme is well chosen, since, after two years, Encore will be returning to its performance home, Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre. Read on to learn more about the next year of awesome shows, as well as how you can gain exclusive access to tickets as an Encore Member, right now!
Disney’s Frozen Jr.
A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen Jr. takes us on a journey with Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with obstacles, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen Jr. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart!
Recommended for ages 4 and older.
Performance Dates:
October 11-20, 2019 at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre
*Single tickets on sale August 11, 2019*
Auditions:
August 5 & 6, 2019 at Encore’s Main Campus
Students ages 9 to 18 are invited to audition for cast.
CSI: Christmas Scene Investigators
Santa Claus is missing! During the last rehearsal for the annual Christmas Show, the action comes to a screeching halt when the cast discovers that the Santa Claus statue has been stolen! Mrs. Dickens calls in the Clue Club — a group of ambitious and eccentric students who take mystery and detection into the realm of science. Full of more surprises than a fruitcake, the Clue Club finds they have successfully fulfilled their duty as “Christmas Scene Investigators” when they discover the true meaning of Christmas.
We recommend this production for ages 4 and older.
Performance Dates:
December 6-15, 2019 at Gunston Arts Center – Theatre Two
Auditions:
October 22 & 23, 2019 at Encore’s Main Campus
From left to right: Aslan (Sean Hackes), Lucy Pevensie (Isabel Tate), Peter Pevensie (Richard Bew) and Susan Pevensie (Lauren Monsivaiz).
Narnia
When the four Pevensie children stumble upon an old wardrobe, little do they know they will discover the magical world of Narnia. Full of mystical creatures, talking animals, and great escapes, this action-packed story by C.S. Lewis depicts the triumph of Aslan, ruler of Narnia, over the White Witch. Join the adventure as four brave kids, one great lion, and an entire kingdom fight for what is right.
We recommend this musical for ages 4 and older.
Performance Dates:
January 10-19, 2020 at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre
Auditions:
October 22 & 23, 2019 at Encore’s Main Campus
The Three Musketeers
This story is set in 17th-century France, a poor young nobleman named D’Artagnan leaves home to join the famous Musketeers of the Guard – defenders of the King and masters of the rapier! On his journey, D’Artagnan befriends three famous Musketeers: Athos, Porthos, and Aramis. As the foursome roams the countryside, they encounter a dastardly plot to kidnap the King’s favorite dog…and realize they’ll need the help of three swashbuckling ladies to save the day. Recommended for ages 6 and older.
Performance Dates:
February 28 – March 8, 2020 at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre
Auditions:
January 14 & 15, 2020 at Encore’s Main Campus
The Frog Prince of Spamalot
Hyronomous A. Frog doesn’t quite fit in among the other frogs in the bog. He’s incredibly large compared to the others and hates the taste of flies! When he meets Gloria the Good Witch, he learns he must be kissed by a maiden to break the curse that turned him from a prince into a frog. Our frog-legged friend sets off for Spamalot, where he finds the spoiled and petulant Princess Gladiola and her sisters. Gladiola and her painfully pompous fiancé, Sir Lancelot Pancelot, will stop at nothing to get rid of him. Find out if the beloved frog finally gets his ribbiting…er, riveting…heart-warming finale!
We recommend this production for ages 4 and older.
Performance Dates:
May 29 – June 7, 2020 at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre
Auditions:
March 16 & 17, 2020 at Encore’s Main Campus
Erin Driscoll (“Maria”) and Alex Pyke (“Tony”)
Photo by Larry McClemons
West Side Story
Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is transported to modern-day New York City as two young, idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the Jets and the Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence, and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching, and relevant musical dramas of our time.
Performance Dates:
July 17-26, 2020 at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre
Auditions:
May 11 & 12, 2020
Students ages 15 and older, as well as college students and adults are invited to audition for cast.
Pepped up for the season? Become an Encore Member today and receive these awesome benefits:
- Immediate access to tickets
- The best choice of seats
- Great savings for your whole family
- Special access to pre-show events
- Easy ticket exchanges
- An exclusive Season Member tote bag
Becoming a Member shows your commitment to “Theatre by kids for kids” and gives Encore staff and participants assurance that there will be an amazing squad to cheer us on during our Homecoming season. Get off the bench and join our team!
Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian, Larry McClemons, and Alana Gibson. Encore jerseys designed and created by 2018/2019 Arts Apprentice Alana Gibson. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
Clementine Comes Alive – Interview w/ Actress Nyla E.
Today’s the day! You’ve been hearing about Encore’s new world premiere musical for months, and now opening night has finally arrived! We’re very excited to share this quirky and fun new work with all of our Encore family. For today’s #FrontRowFriday, we’ve got a special treat for our readers: an interview with The Talented Clementine herself!
Encore: Could you briefly introduce yourself and share how you’ve been involved with Encore, including any shows, camps, or classes you’ve been a part of in the past?
Nyla: Hi, I’m Nyla Elder and I am the role of Clementine in The Talented Clementine. I started with Encore about four years ago. I had just moved here from Alexandria and my parents signed me up for Scenes for Tweens, a Encore summer camp. I didn’t know anyone and I really didn’t have much acting experience. The show we did was Robin Hood and I was Hermès the Hawk. I enjoyed the camp so much I decided, by myself, that next year I would do another camp. And that’s where my journey with Encore started. After that, I did a Shakespeare summer camp at Encore, All’s Well That Ends. We did Richard III, and I was the Duke of Buckingham. The next summer I did All’s Well That Ends again. After the show, our camp director Mr. Seth Rosenke, encouraged me to audition next season for a show. I took his advice and auditioned for Lion King Jr. I was so happy when I found out I made it! Lion King Jr was such a rewarding experience. After doing one show I had caught the theatre bug, and continued to audition in new shows.
Encore: What’s your favorite part about taking on the role of Clementine? Can you share any challenges or things you’ve learned in rehearsal?
Nyla: My favorite part of playing the role Clementine, was freedom I had with the role. Clementine is always moving, constantly fidgeting and playing around. I loved that I could always move around and I was never just standing there. Clementine is always imagining, thinking, and moving. One of the difficulties that came with this role was the responsibility. I had to memorize a lot of lines and songs, and I had to do it myself. I had to write down my cues and entrance and exits, on my own. But in the end everything came together.
Encore: How has working on a world premiere musical differed from other theatre experiences in which you’ve participated?
Nyla: Working on a World Premiere was much different then anything I had ever worked on. For one, no one has ever done The Talented Clementine and the backing tracks were brand new. We had to figure out the harmonies and some of the notes. But, it’s an amazing opportunity to do a show that no one has done before!
Encore: What’s your best Encore memory and why?
Nyla: My best Encore memory was the last show of The Lion King Jr. We had a full house and the audience was really engaged and active! Everyone in the cast gave it their all and we had a great time. That was truly something I will never forget.
Encore: How excited are you about our 2019/2020 season reveal on June 2nd? Do you have any advice for kids who are thinking of auditioning for an Encore show next season?
Nyla: I am so excited for the next season reveal! I am thrilled that new kids in the next season will have the same amazing Encore experience as I had. Some tips for auditions for new kids are to always be confident, and if you’re nervous, take deep breaths. Always be loud! Have a lot of energy! And don’t forget if you don’t make it, keep auditioning!
Encore: In your own words, please describe Encore’s production of The Talented Clementine in three words or short phrases.
Nyla: A cute, amusing and and insightful musical. A classic story brought to life. Sometimes Your Talents Aren’t What You Think.
A big thank you to the very talented Nyla for taking the time out of Encore’s busy tech week schedule to share her experiences with us. Be sure to get your tickets for The Talented Clementine to come cheer on this most excellent cast, crew, and production team. If you join us tonight, you could even meet Sara Pennypacker, the author of the original Clementine series!
Performance Dates and Showtimes
Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian and Larry McClemons. Clementine Illustration by Marla Frazee. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.