Center Stage Theatre will present its annual Teen Musical Theatre Workshop entitled “Broadway Showstoppers” at 8 p.m. on November 2nd 3rd, 9th, and 10th, and at 2:00 p.m. on November 4th. The production is being directed by Gina Scarpa and Mia Scarpa, daughters of the theatre’s founders and operators, Gary and Francesca Scarpa.
This year’s teen production is comprised of “show stopping” musical numbers from such hits as Evita, West Side Story, Anything Goes, and Aida, to name a few, and features a cast of 40 talented high school students from Shelton, Derby, Monroe, Beacon Falls, North Haven, Woodbridge, Orange, and Bethany.
“One of the most important aspects of our mission as a theatre is to build confidence in teens through the performing arts,” said Gary Scarpa. “The kids grow incredibly from their participation in this show. I like to think of it as Musical Theatre Boot Camp — and the performances are like graduation day!”
Center Stage Theatre is a non-profit organization, founded by Gary and Francesca Scarpa in 2005. The theatre presents a full season of five productions, using age appropriate casting. Center Stage’s purpose is to enhance the cultural environment within its community; to present high quality theatrical productions at affordable prices; to encourage growth and education through the performing arts; and to provide a means for interested adults, teens and children to experience and participate in various aspects of live theater.
The Scarpas have directed teens in theatre for 36 years with the Youth CONNection, the Shelton High School Drama Club, the Sacred Heart Academy Drama Club, and the Amity High School Drama Club, and, upon opening Center Stage, the Scarpas integrated their work with teens into the theatre’s active schedule of performances. They have been recognized by a variety of organizations for their work with teens, most recently with the Raymond P. Lavietes Service to Youth Award presented to them in 2010 by the Boys and Girls Club of the Lower Naugatuck Valley. Their daughters currently assist them with their work with teens.
Center Stage is located at the former Lafayette School at 54 Grove Street in Shelton. To purchase tickets for the production and to learn more about Center Stage, visit www.centerstageshelton.com or call 203 – 225-6079.
All seating for “Broadway Showstoppers”. Ticket price is $ 15.00, and may be purchased at the theatre’s website or by calling the box office.
