Theatre By Kids, For Kids!
Since 1967
Encore Stage & Studio has proudly supported children and families across Arlington through youth-centered theatre, arts education, and community performances for generations. Every program is built around creativity, inclusion, skill-building, and meaningful opportunities for young people to grow both on and off the stage.
Our History
Children’s Theatre, Camps & Classes in Arlington, VA
Encore Stage & Studio was founded in 1967 as The Children’s Theatre of Arlington to create meaningful theatre opportunities designed specifically for children and teens. Over the decades, the organization evolved into a professionally managed youth arts nonprofit while staying committed to its original “theatre by kids, for kids” philosophy and youth-only productions. Families often want programs that feel organized, stable, and genuinely focused on children’s growth, which is why Encore combines professional arts education, experienced leadership, and accessible participation across productions, classes, camps, and school partnerships.
Today, Encore continues serving Arlington and nearby communities through performances, camps, arts education, and year-round programming that balances creative exploration with structure, consistency, and long-standing community trust.
Children’s Theatre, Camps & Classes in Arlington, VA
Today, Encore continues serving Arlington and nearby communities through performances, camps, arts education, and year-round programming that balances creative exploration with structure, consistency, and long-standing community trust.
Our Vision
Encore Stage & Studio is a national leader in theatre by and foryoung people. We engage kids on both sides of the curtain, meeting them at their level to help them learn, grow and succeed. Encore provides inclusive opportunities for a diverse community of future thinkers, creators, and leaders.
Our Values
Inspiring Creativity Encore believesin the transformative power ofimagination and innovation. Creativityis atthe heart of everythingwe do: encouraging young people to explore newideas, express themselves boldly, and discover the joy of artistic expression.
Infusing Joy Encore embracesthe joy oftheater and the thrill of discovery. Learning and performing are filledwith enthusiasm, laughter, and a spirit of play,making every experience memorable and enjoyable for all.
Fostering Belonging
Encore provides awelcoming homewhere every child feels valued and respected.We are a community where differences are celebrated, and everyone isinvited to contribute their unique voice and perspective.
Cultivating Excellence Encore is committed to the higheststandards of artistic and educational quality and guiding our studentsto achieve their personal goals. Through intentional programming, dedicated teaching artists, and continuousimprovement,we strive for excellence in everyinteraction.
Our Mission
Encore Stage & Studio inspires young people to develop the creativity, empathy and confidence they need to createmeaningful connections with peers and have a positive impact in their communities.
What Families Can Expect From Encore Every Day
Youth-Centered Leadership
Children and teens remain at the heart of every production, class, camp, and educational experience. Families benefit from programs intentionally designed around young performers instead of adult-centered community theatre models.
Accessible Participation
Encore works to remove barriers that can keep children from participating in theatre. Free productions, scholarships, fee reductions, and Passport Program support help more families access arts education across the Arlington community.
Professional Arts Education
Families often want creative programs that feel both welcoming and thoughtfully organized. Encore’s professional educators, teaching artists, and production teams help children develop real performance skills within a supportive learning environment.
Inclusion and Community
Encore’s programs are designed to encourage collaboration, empathy, confidence, and belonging for children across many backgrounds and experience levels. Students are encouraged to participate on stage, backstage, and throughout the creative process.
Find a Theatre Community That Grows With Your Child
Students learn what it means to be part of a team. They practice responsibility, courage, empathy, and creative thinking. They support each other through rehearsals, performances, camps, classes, and volunteer roles. Some students perform on stage. Some help backstage. Some welcome audiences, sell concessions, and build customer service skills through front-of-house opportunities. Every role matters, and every student helps tell the story.
For many families, Encore becomes more than an activity. It becomes a home.
Families across Northern Virginia turn to Encore Stage & Studio when they want arts programming that feels stable, welcoming, and deeply connected to the local community. From first-time performers to returning students and longtime theatre families, Encore provides year-round opportunities that help children build confidence, creativity, and lasting connections through the arts.