A Frozen Family Affair: The Payne Sisters
A Frozen #FrontRowFriday to all the Encore fans out there! We’re buzzing with anticipation leading up to the opening of Disney’s Frozen Jr. this evening at Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre. It’s our first production back in our home theatre since The Jungle Book back in 2017. We are definitely full of family feeling, returning to our Encore home with a show that focuses on the significance of sisterhood. We found the perfect duo to continue this theme: sisters Sydney and Molly P!
Encore: Say hello! Briefly introduce yourselves (how have you been involved with Encore and/or the arts before, who are you playing in this production, etc).
Molly: I’m Molly P. and I’m nine years old. This is my first Encore show and I’m playing Young Anna. I’ve seen every show that my older sister has been in — I actually saw The Music Man eight times! I’ve always loved musical theatre and we’ve been going to musicals together since I was three years old.
Sydeney: Hello! My name is Sydney P. I have been performing in Encore shows for four years. Disney’s Frozen Jr. is my eighth show. I am playing the role of Sven in this production.
Following Sydney’s performance in Encore’s 2017 production of A Little Princess
Encore: What’s been the best thing about doing a show with your sister?
Sydney: There are a few reasons why I love doing this show with my sister. We get to practice all of the songs and dances together! I also love watching Molly develop as an actor. She has been coming to my shows since 2015. She has been waiting for the time when she could be up on the stage. I enjoy watching her learn about the process of putting a show together and everything that goes with it.
Molly: I’m excited that my first show is with my sister.
Encore: What was the audition process like for each of you? How did you feel?
Sydney: My audition process was kind of stressful but at the same time exciting. The weeks leading up to the audition involved lots of belting of Frozen songs and watching the movie. Molly and I saw the Broadway show last year. I knew a little more about what to expect when I walked into the audition room.
Molly: I was at Girl Scout sleepaway camp that week and I went back and forth twice for the audition and callback. I was nervous. I’d practiced the songs and harmonies from the Broadway show with my sister and a teacher.
Disney’s Newsies, 2019. Photo by Cindy Kane Photography.
Encore: What’s been your favorite Encore memory so far?
Molly: I love singing “Let the Sun Shine On” and being IN a show!
Sydney: My favorite Encore memory has been meeting so many new and amazing people. Every show has so many fun people. I have met some of my best friends through Encore. I love working onstage with all of them but also hanging when we are off of the stage. I love joining a new cast and seeing everyone that I have done shows with before and have not seen in a long time.
Encore: What do you enjoy most about performing?
Molly: I love solo and ensemble singing.
Sydney: The thing that I enjoy most about performing is getting to try things that you wouldn’t get to do otherwise. You get to explore so many different sides of yourself. There are so many different roles that you could take on and there is always more to learn. It’s fun to leave behind everything that is happening in your life and just become a new person.
The Music Man, 2017. Photo by Larry McClemons.
Encore: How would you describe Encore’s production of Frozen Jr. to someone who had never seen the movie before?
Sydney: Disney’s Frozen Jr. is a fantastic musical. It’s a story about the journey of two sisters who don’t know much about each other. As the story goes on, both sisters learn about the other as well as themselves. Encore does a great job with all the little details going into this show. We have all worked hard on all of the songs and dances. The is so much energy and emotion put into this show by everyone who is a part of it.
Molly: It’s a really fun story about sisterhood. There is great music and funny scenes.
Encore: What are you most proud of/excited about regarding our upcoming show? Why should people come to see the show?
Molly: I feel proud of my work on Young Anna’s harmonies. People should come see the show because it’s a fun story with lots of good songs, fun dances, and lots of talented actors and actresses!
Sydney: I am most excited about exploring this new character and having lots of fun on the stage. I can’t wait to interact with all of the audience as we walk through the audience and after the show. This is show is so much fun for everyone. It’s a new version of Frozen, different than the movie.
Encore: Anything else you’d like to share?
Sydney: I hope everyone comes to watch this amazing show!
Performance Dates and Showtimes:
Friday, October 11, 2019 at 7:30pm
Saturdays, October 12 and 19, 2019 at 11am and 3pm
Sundays, October 13 and 20, 2019 at 3pm
Thursday, October 17, 2019 at 7:30pm
Photos by Larry McClemons and Cindy Kane Photography. Additional photos contributed by the O’Dell-Payne Family.
Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
September Highlights to Get You Jumping for Joy
September is a great month, full of new beginnings, big plans, and the crisp air of autumn. It can also be one of the busiest months for our Encore families, as students get back in a school routine, sports and extracurriculars pick up, and the wonderful laziness of summer drifts away like a leaf on the wind. All this to say: I don’t blame you if you missed out on some of our goings-on here at Encore. Read on to get caught up and get excited for what’s ahead!
ICYMI: Encore has welcomed three new friends to our office staff this past month (+ the lovely Gloria this August!). You’ll be seeing a lot of them, so please head over and get to know them:
Photo by Claire Buffie
Kyla McLaughlin, 2019/2020 Production Apprentice
Jordan Wells, 2019/2020 Education Apprentice
Speaking of lovely faces…did you see Madaline Langston, Encore’s Education Programs Director, in her own Arlington Magazine interview?
Join us on Saturday, October 19th for the Frozen Princess Ball, following the 11 AM performance.
Selling Tickets
When we saw the positive response to our upcoming Frozen Princess Ball, we got chills…of joy! We cannot wait to celebrate this wonderful production with so many of our dear Encore friends. Get your tickets today – we promise not to finish your sandwiches. 🙂
Speaking of tickets – did you realize that single tickets for CSI: Christmas Scene Investigators have been released? This holiday production will be running at Gunston Arts Center’s Theatre Two, which is a delightful black box space. Black boxes mean more intimate performances and, therefore, fewer seats, so be sure to get your tickets before they’re gone!
Getting Prepared
Our fall education season officially began on September 23rd with two Monday evening classes specially designed for our older acting students, Supernatural Shakespeare and Broadway Musicals. Our Monday evening series of Education offerings are ideal options for actors that are constantly seeking to improve their craft and, in doing so, their hopes of being cast in fully staged productions.
Are you feeling prepared? Come out to auditions for Encore’s next two productions, Narnia and CSI: Christmas Scene Investigators, October 22 and 23, between 5-7 PM. Visit our Auditions page for more detailed information by clicking here.
Building Community
Last month, our three new apprentices had the opportunity to join Executive Director Sara Duke at a community event for the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC). This event gathered local non-profits to share more about their organizations with federal employees, who are encouraged to give back and support non-profits by the CFC’s matching program: “The mission of the CFC is to promote and support philanthropy through a program that is employee-focused, cost-efficient, and effective in providing all federal employees the opportunity to improve the quality of life for all.”
Are you interested in learning more about Encore’s history, programming, and mission? Please visit the link below to learn more about how your donations help to support “Theatre by kids, for kids” in the DC Metro area.
Opening House
We were delighted to welcome a number of new students and families to our first-ever Fall Open House event. It was a wonderful opportunity to share who we are as an organization and what it’s like to experience an Encore class. Saturday Fall classes begin this week, on Saturday, October 5, so now is the time to get registered, if you haven’t already!
Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian and Cindy Kane Photography. Additional photos provided by staff.
Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
What’s In My Rehearsal Bag: Lucy R.
A festive #FrontRowFriday to all of you, friends! We’ve got a special Front Row treat for you heading into the long weekend. Perhaps you’ve seen her in some of our past Musical Theatre Intensive or summer musical productions. This fall, you’ll have a chance to take in Lucy Rocchio’s performance as Queen of Arendelle in Encore’s production of Disney’s Frozen Jr. With all of her experience, we can’t wait to hear Lucy’s tips for building the perfect rehearsal bag!
Hello all! My name is Lucy Rocchio. I’m a senior at T.C. Williams High School and I’m going to be playing Elsa in Encore’s production of Disney’s Frozen Jr. this fall! I’m beyond ecstatic to be a part of this show and can’t wait for everyone to come see it.
As a matter of fact, this is the first regular season show I’ve done with Encore. Previously I’ve been involved in Encore’s Musical Theatre Intensive (MTI) program where I did The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Godspell, and James and the Giant Peach.
I’ve also participated in summer shows with Encore like Mary Poppins, The Music Man, and Seussical.
Clearly I’ve always been ready to play a princess.
Dress your best for our Frozen Princess Ball on October 19th!
This makes Frozen Jr. my seventh show with Encore, which I’m so excited about! I have done 13 other plays and musicals with my schools and with a local symphony. The more shows you do, the more you learn from creative staff and other performers sharing their ideas and experience.
Encore asked me to share what I have learned about getting ready for rehearsals. I’ve learned to always be early and never forget to have what you need in a rehearsal bag. It’s crucial to be prepared and to have your bag packed with all the necessities.
- First is the script. Without this item, I wouldn’t be able to follow along the important storytelling and learn my part.
- Second are pencils. Pencils are a must in order to write down blocking (stage directions) in your script and notes from your directors! Having one pencil is good, but having a bunch always comes in handy if one breaks or if a friend needs to borrow one.
- Third is a water bottle. I always make sure to grab a reusable water bottle and fill it up so when I’m at rehearsal and we do choreography or sing a song I can take refreshing sips to stay hydrated the whole time.
- Next is cough drops. Sounding hoarse is never fun, so if my throat feels dry or sore, I can just pop one in my mouth and keep going.
- Also, I always have a couple of snacks with me. Snacks are helpful whenever there’s a break to boost energy and give a pick-me-up. They help me stay energized, focused and are also super tasty. I usually bring peanut butter crackers and some type of fruit.
- Lastly, character shoes. While playing a queen I must be sure to have the proper shoes. Character shoes are perfect because they’re meant for the stage and are heeled so they give a bit more of that royal flare. It’s also great to start wearing them early on in rehearsals to practice how movement for the part will feel in heels.
I am excited to grab my bag on rehearsal days. It means I’m going to end the day on a fun note!
Thank you for sharing all of your royal wisdom, Lucy! We look forward to your performance as Elsa in Encore’s production of Frozen Jr. this October. We’re sure it’ll give everyone chills.
Performance Dates and Showtimes for Disney’s Frozen Jr.
Friday, October 11, 2019 at 7:30pm
Saturday, October 12 and 19, 2019 at 11am and 3pm
Sunday, October 13 and 20, 2019 at 3pm
Thursday, October 17, 2019 at 7:30pm
Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian and the Rocchio family.
Blog contribution by Lucy Rocchio. Edited by Shannon McCarthy.
From the Cast: A Newsies Rehearsal Update
Extra, extra, read all about it! Encore’s production of Disney’s Newsies opens this Friday. The buzz in the office about this show has been steadily growing to an excited roar. Today we’re pumped to check in with a few members of our cast, to learn a bit more about some of the characters that inhabit our streets of New York, as well as what has them amped up for this production run.
Madeleine: (Bowery Beauty, Newsie, Nun) My favorite memory of this show has been meeting a ton of new friends, because I have never been in an Encore show or known anyone from Encore! The thing that I’m most excited for in Newsies is getting to perform on the set, because it is so amazing. I’m also excited to perform the tap number “King Of New York.” Encore’s [production of] Newsies is an enjoyable, well put-together, and upbeat show that has been a great experience to be a part of!
Marz: (Youth Newsies) I am part of the strike and the union that’s been formed. One of my favorite memories during Newsies was when I walked into the theatre and saw the set for the first time. I was in shock of how amazing it looked and what I have the chance to be a part of. Newsies is something so much bigger then me, and I am so excited to see the magic come together onstage! To me, Newsies is about justice, finding your voice, bravery, loyalty, and love. I hope the audience feels the message that’s conveyed, and that they take it and spread it out into the world.
Dahlia: (Nun, Bowery Beauty, Dancer Newsie) My favorite memories from the rehearsal process focus on making new friends and dancing. I’m very excited to be able to share what we’ve worked on to our friends and family. If I could describe Newsies in one word, I would describe it as adventurous.
Emmie: (Nun, Newsies, Bowery Beauty) Newsies is a great musical about the newsboy strike of 1899, when the newsies went on strike for better wages after the politician Joe Pulitzer raises the price on the newspapers that the newsies have to sell, an unfair thing to do because the newsboys don’t get refunded for the papers they don’t sell and they have to eat. My favorite memory from the Newsies rehearsal process was learning the tap number for “King of New York.” I don’t have a whole lot of experience with tap, so at first when I found out I was going to be in the tap number I was a little nervous, but learning it was really fun and after practicing it a lot, I got all the steps and that felt really good. For the show, I think I’m most excited for the dance numbers, specifically the tap number and the dance number with the Bowery Beauties, which is so much fun too (we do a kick line!). It’s going to be a great show and I can’t wait to perform.
Xander: (Youth Newsie, Goon, Bill) The whole rehearsal process was so much fun, but one memory in particular that stands out is when we first started tech week. I enjoyed seeing the amazing sets the crew built for the first time, and it was fun to play games with the cast and try on costumes. It also made the show feel so real, that we were truly standing in Newsies Square and dancing in the streets of New York! I’m most excited for the fight scene at the end of “Seize the Day”; it is an intense all-out brawl filled with punches, kicks, chaos all over the stage, and more! It provides a sharp contrast to the determination the newsies have after singing about standing up to fight for what they believe in. Newsies has something for everyone, whether it’s the stage combat, amazing group numbers, New York accents, or beautiful sets and costumes. This show brings so many awesome talents together to tell the riveting tale of the newsboys strike of 1899.
Matthew: (Bunsen, Youth Newsie) I’ve had such a fun time rehearsing this show; one of my favorite memories of rehearsal was when we did our first full run-through because it was so amazing to see how all of our hard work come together. I’m so excited for the audiences to see this show because it’s a show for the whole family. Everyone will have a character to relate to. Encore’s production of Newsies is a whirlwind of beautiful singing, phenomenal dances, and a story for the ages.
Ben: (Joseph Pulitzer, the owner of The World and villain of the story) I have enjoyed being a part of this production with my son, Will, who plays a Nouth Newsie and the Policeman. My favorite memory of rehearsal was our first “stumble-through” — getting to see and hear our incredible cast do the full show for the first time! I am most excited to see the audience reactions. My brief description of Encore’s Newsies: an exuberantly energetic show with everything you could want in a musical!
Performance Dates and Showtimes
Friday, July 19, 2019 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, July 20, 2019 at 2:00 pm
Saturday, July 20, 2019 at 7:30 pm
Sunday, July 21, 2019 at 2:00 pm
Thursday, July 25, 2019 at 7:30 pm
Friday, July 26, 2019 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, July 27, 2019 at 2:00 pm
Saturday, July 27, 2019 at 7:30 pm
Sun, July 28, 2019 at 2:00 pm
Frozen Jr. Auditions “In Summer!”
Happy #FrontRowFriday, friends! We hope all of the Encore family had a safe and fantastic 4th of July celebration. Wait – July 4th has come and gone!? Check your calendar…July 5th. That means we’re exactly one month away from auditions for Encore’s production of Disney’s Frozen, Jr. Today we’ve got four reasons to audition, to help you count the four weeks until the big day:
Are you someone who finds that the end of summer seems to drag? Do you get pumped for school supply shopping and the prospect of a new school year? The last month of summer will fly by with auditions and rehearsals that will have you happier than a dancing snowman.
Come Back “For the First Time in Forever”
Have you been missing working on a school with your Encore pals? Our 2019/2020 Homecoming Season is the perfect time to come audition for cast or crew! We’ll be returning to our home of Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre. Reconnect with old friends and make some awesome new ones as you work together to put on this popular Disney favorite.
Fear About Auditions? “Let It Go!”
Whether it’s your first time in the audition room or your 40th, it’s natural to feel some nerves (that shows that you really care about what you’re doing – awesome!). Here at Encore, we make every effort to keep our auditions low-key and very fun. You’ll go into the room with a group of students just like you; you’ll play games and get to know the production team. Be loud, energetic, and attentive, and you’re sure to have a fabulous time!
Share “A Little Bit of You”
Our production team loves auditions because they get to work with so many excited and talented young people. Your audition is your chance to share just a glimpse into what a wonderful and interesting person you are; we can’t wait to meet you and see your work!
Auditions for Disney’s Frozen, Jr.
August 5 & 6, 2019
5 -7 PM
Performance Dates and Showtimes
Friday, October 11, 2019 at 7:30
Saturday, October 12 and 19, 2019 at 11am and 3pm
Sunday, October 13 and 20, 2019 at 3pm
Thursday, October 17, 2019 at 7:30
Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian and Larry McClemons. Graphic design by Aileen Pangan Christian. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
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.
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.
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.