Performance Opportunities for Youth
Each year Chandler offers performance opportunities for youth, ages 7 to 18, in creative productions that celebrate a diverse array of regional talent. These productions have provided some of the most memorable moments in Chandler’s history. Some are even credited with inspiring current members of Blue Man Group and launching others in careers in technical theatre.
July 4th Youth Musical
Since 1999, more than 100 youth from the region have participated each year in Chandler’s July 4th youth musical presenting fully-staged productions of popular Broadway musicals under the direction of experienced staff.
This highly successful program is an effective way of serving a diverse population of youth, engaging them in meaningful activity overseen by qualified professionals. This experience empowers youth, fosters self-esteem, strengthens connections between families and communities, provides support to children and families in transition or crisis, and affirms the value of creative self-expression and working toward a common goal.
For the more than 600 youth that have participated since 1999, these productions have been intense and rewarding experiences that have offered a sense of community, sharpened stage skills, and opened a world of career or study choices. The friendships forged during these times are strong ones that weather time and distance, and coming back to Chandler is like coming home.
Mini Mud Variety Show
As a way of furthering our mission of serving youth in the region, each year Chandler offers area youth an opportunity to perform on the main stage in a supportive and encouraging environment. Mini Mud was developed in 2007 in response to overwhelming interest in Chandler’s intergenerational Mud Season Variety Show. All featured performers are students up to 18 years of age. Students also provide important technical support backstage and serve as emcees for the production. For more information about ways to participate in this popular annual event that celebrates the talent of area youth, please contact Chandler’s Community Outreach Manager Betsy Cantlin at 802-431-0204 or outreach@chandler-arts.org.
The Next Generation
Chandler’s experience presenting NPR’s From the Top in 2007 inspired this annual performance by outstanding young musicians who have seriously studied classical instrumental or vocal music. The area’s top teachers recommend students whose accomplishments deserve special recognition and the performance features those students selected after an audition. The performance is a celebration of their talent and their inspiring dedication to its pursuit and development.
Other Opportunities for Youth
Student Technical Theater program
Chandler has earned a regional reputation for its student technical theater program. Under the direction of Chandler's Technical Director Emily Crosby, students in grades 7-12 learn valuable technical theater skills that are put to use supporting a full season of performances at Chandler Music Hall. Many past participants have gone into successful careers in technical theater.
Emily is a “graduate” of Chandler’s student tech program. She earned her degree from Wagner College in 2008 as a Design/Technology/Management major with a Stage Management concentration. Emily brings extensive experience to her work at Chandler and is happy to return “home” to the place where her love for technical theater was nurtured.
Techies are the real workhorses behind any theatrical production, concert, or anything else that involves performers or happens on a stage. They build the sets, find the props, dress the performer, aim, gel (color), and focus all the lights, and hang or place any microphones that are needed. They run the spotlights, the light and sound boards, and generally keeping things running smoothly backstage. They know a little about everything and a lot about a quite a few things.
The skills that these students learn in their work at Chandler are valuable outside the theater as well. Some kids volunteer 10 hours, others put in more than 500 hours each season. Self-motivation is required, but when students demonstrate commitment, the rewards are great. In addition to mechanical and technical work, they learn leadership skills, responsibility, time management and teamwork.
For more information about this program, please contact Emily Crosby at 802-279-2321 or by email at .
Arts Education workshops
Chandler is pleased to offer a series of arts education workshops for youth during school vacations in its newly-renovated facilities. Watch the website and local papers for details or contact Chandler’s Upper Events Manager, Claire Garner at 802-522-6877 or .
Lyra Summer Workshop
Lyra Summer Music launched its first workshop in the summer of 2010 under the direction of NYC pianists Mary Prescott and Akiko Sasaki , and hosted jointly by Chandler and Vermont Technical College. Curriculum includes, private lessons, chamber ensembles and coaching, master classes with distinguished guest artists, group classes and supervised practice time. Faculty concerts, guest artist performances, and student concerts are presented at Chandler. Students of all ages and levels who play piano, violin, viola, cello and double bass are invited to participate. www.lyrasummermusic.com.
Arts Bus
Chandler collaborates with a coalition of area organizations that serve youth to present The Arts Bus, a mobile arts center bringing arts programming to underserved youth in the area. Partner organizations include Kimball Library, the White River Craft Center, the Boys’ & Girls’ Club, and area schools. Unveiled in May 2010, during its first 10 months on the road, the Arts Bus served more than 1900 toddlers, children and teenagers in day care and recreational centers, housing developments, and schools.
2011-2012 Daytime Performance Series
Tues, Oct 18, 9:30 AM: The American Place Theatre's Literature to Life Stage presentation of The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseni
Thurs, Nov 3, 9:30 AM & 12:30 PM: Madeline and the Bad Hat presented by ArtsPower
Thurs, Feb 16, 9:30 AM: China Speaks Your Language performed by The Silk Road Duo
Tues, April 3, 9:30 AM & 12:30 PM: Freedom Train presented by Theatreworks USA