An arts education program and theatre company that puts the process of creating theatre in the hands of young people, Encore has produced more than 245 shows since 1967 — where every stage role and crew position is filled by a young person. Serving more than 15,000 children and adults annually through their theatre programming, Encore showcases an unparalleled commitment to youth leadership and artistic excellence while breaking down barriers by charging no fees to participate in their mainstage productions. Kids hone their skills in year-round classes, summer camp, and roles as technical or front-of-house crew, while older students hold coveted internships. Through Flip the Script, students conduct research and engage with local community members to bring underrepresented stories to the stage, sparking dialogue in post-show talkbacks. Leadership, creativity, teamwork, and amplifying diverse perspectives are all part of the creative process.

Headquarters: VA-Arlington County

Where They Operate: DC-Citywide; MD-Montgomery County; VA-Arlington County; VA-Fairfax County; VA-City of Alexandria; VA-City of Fairfax; VA-City of Falls Church

Age Groups Served: Youth (5-11); Pre-teen/teen (12-17); Young adult (18-24)

Ethnic Groups Served: African American; Asian American; Caucasian; Latino/Hispanic; Native American

Population(s) Served: Students

Schools They Work In: We work in the following Arlington County Public Schools:; Arlington Science Focus School; Jamestown Elementary School; Kenmore Middle School; Nottingham Elementary School; Taylor Elementary School; Thomas Jefferson Middle School; Tuckahoe Elementary School

Awards & Recognition

2007 - Elizabeth Campbell Award for Outstanding Community Arts Organization

Press

  • Encore Stage & Studio Announces Their Selection For 2014/2015 Catalogue For Philanthropy
    Fri Jun 20 2014, Alexandria News  
    This award reflects Encore 's status as a highly effective local nonprofit, working to build a life-long appreciation for live theatre.
    connect here

Budget (FY2023)

  • $3 million or higher
  • $1 million to $3 million
  • The current budget for Encore Stage & Studio is: $500k to $1 million
  • Less than $500k

Catalogue charities range in size from $100,000 to $3 million. This graphic indicates the budget range of the organization featured here. If you see an organizational budget above the $3 million mark, that is because the featured charity has grown in size since it first appeared in the Catalogue. We proudly present on our website the work of these "growth" charities.

About Spur Local

Each year 150+ community advocates review applicants on the basis of governance, equity, and impact. Each featured nonprofit has been successfully site visited and its financials given the thumbs up. Spur Local charges no fees and raises funds separately to support its work. Since 2003, it has raised over $57 million for nonprofits across the Greater Washington region.

Spur Local looks to friends like you to keep our services independent and entirely free of charge. Consider a small contribution to Spur Local to cap off your gift and help the causes you care about get the full support they deserve!

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