ST. PETERSBURG | American Stage Theatre Company announced the launch of its virtual programming May 12 in an effort to educate and connect with the community it serves.
The organization paused operations and programming in mid-April in response to COVID-19, promising to return with powerful stories, boldly told. Its new launch includes a virtual stage and virtual academy.
“While the current pandemic crisis has closed our doors to live events indefinitely, we have had the opportunity to consider the core of our mission and determine how to move forward in a time of such great uncertainty,” American Stage CEO and Producing Artistic Director Stephanie Gularte said in a statement.
“Ultimately, underlying all of our work is the goal of uniting our community through the shared human experience via stories and classes that promote connection and empathy,” she continued. “Our virtual programs will allow American Stage to continue to provide a sense of community unity and to help keep us all connected.”
The “Virtual American Stage” promises “powerful stories, virtually told.” American Stage’s staff and artists will present Summer Shorts, a collection of live performances and viceos that audiences can view from home. June will showcase a “Shakespeare Lite Festival” and July will offer a 10-minute “New Short Plays Festival.”
In August, American Stage will present “Living Room Plays,” celebrating favorite scenes and characters from its 43-year history. The organization also invites supporters to listen in on “Spotlight: The American Stage Podcast,” which Watermark has previously participated in, and to join them for live conversations.
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The “Virtual Academy” seeks to explore, empower and engage with audiences. American Stage will offer virtual summer camps June 8-July 31 with onsite camps planned for June 29-July 31. Professionals will provide theatre training in a positive and inspiring environment.
They will also provide accessible adult programming for students and professional artists to continue their education through digital and social media platforms. Offerings include virtual classes and monthly improv discussions. Viewers can also engage with “Family Connections” and “Creative Wellness” programs.
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“Exploring and connecting through the art of storytelling fosters well-being for us all as individuals and as a community,” Director of Education, Outreach and Improv Tiffany Ford shared. “We’re so excited to work with our youth and adult students again, and take them on a fresh educational journey.”
You can watch American Stage’s full announcement below:
For more information about American Stage and its virtual efforts, visit AmericanStage.org. For the latest updates about COVID-19 and its impact on the LGBTQ communities in Tampa Bay, Sarasota and Central Florida, view Watermark’s frequently updated coverage here.
