[{"id":13093,"title":"January 2026","content":"

January 2026

January is here, and with it comes a fresh start and exciting momentum at Stages Theatre Company! We’re thrilled to share what’s ahead as we kick off the new year – along with the stories, opportunities, and magic happening both onstage and behind the scenes.

Education & Community updates

🎭 Save the Date: Summer Theatre Workshop on Sale Soon!

Save the Date: Summer Theatre Workshop on Sale Soon!

On Sale: January 23rd at 10 am
Summer Theatre Workshops: Age 3 through Grade 12

Spend your summer singing, dancing, playing, and imagining at Stages! Professional teaching artists lead our Summer Theatre Workshops and give students the chance to get creative, make new friends, explore the arts, and have a whole lot of fun over summer break.

All workshops go on sale January 23, 2026, at 10:00 AM. It is highly recommended to log in to your stagestheatre.org account and join the virtual waiting room prior to 10:00 AM. At 10:00 AM, everyone in the virtual waiting room will be randomly assigned a spot in the queue via a lottery. Please note: It does not matter if you enter the virtual waiting room at 9 am or 9:58 am, all spots are randomly assigned at 10:00 AM using a virtual waiting room platform, Queue-It.

If you log in after 10:00 AM, you will be put at the bottom of the queue.

More details about the workshops will be available on January 16, 2026, at 10:00 AM, one week before the workshops go on sale.

Tuition assistance is available through the Open Door Program to help make Summer Theatre Workshops accessible for everyone!

PRO-TIP: We still have room in our weekend and preschool weekday sessions for Winter Session. Sign up today!

Learn More

🌙 Auditions For The Girl Who Drank The Moon!

January 12 & 13, 2026 | Hopkins Center for the arts

Stages Theatre Company is excited to bring this magical story to the stage and is seeking youth actors ages 10–18 and adult actors. Artists of the global majority are highly encouraged to audition.

We’re casting youth roles and two adult roles (one Adult Female, one Adult Male). Adult actors may submit video auditions – email auditions@stagestheatre.org.

Accessibility accommodations are available! Reach out to us with any needs.

Ready to step into a world of magic and moonlight? Sign up to audition!

Monthly Feature

🎉 2025 was a year to remember!

We are filled with gratitude for the community that surrounds and sustains Stages Theatre. Thanks to your support, thousands of young people discovered their voice, creativity, and confidence through theatre this year.

From expanding teen mentorships and accessible programs to bringing performances to schools across Minnesota, your generosity makes it possible for all young people to explore, create, and shine.

2025 Impact Highlights

290 performances
114,134 participants in performances and education programs
4,089 youth in classes & initiatives
9,535 free tickets through Open Door Program
67% of our $2.5M Next Generation Campaign raised

Voices from Our Community:
“Our whole family—from toddlers to grandparents—loved the shows. It’s incredible to see young talent shine!”

“Classes helped my child grow in creativity and confidence. STC has created a lifelong theatre lover!”

As we look to 2026 and the Next Generation Campaign, we hope you’ll consider a gift to keep our stages open to every child and teen.

Thank you for being part of the Stages Theatre family.

Give today to support young artists!

Make a tax deductible donation today

Featured Shows and Events

Giraffes Can't Dance

January 23 – February 22, 2026

Let the music find you this winter!

Animal antics, dazzling music, and dances from across the globe make this heartwarming tale of friendship a musical for all ages.

Purchase Tickets

The Girl Who Drank The Moon

March 27 – April 19, 2026

Together we hold the power to change.

The Girl Who Drank the Moon celebrates the transformative power of unity — reminding us all that when we come together, we can heal wounds, face our fears, and create a better world for everyone.

Purchase Tickets

Starlight Celebration

April 23, 2026

This year’s Starlight Celebration was unforgettable, and it wouldn’t have been possible without you!

Early bird tickets are on sale now!

Learn more

Photos by Amy Rondeau Photography.

","link":"https://www.stagestheatre.org/newsletter/january-2026/","date":"December 30, 2025"},{"id":13003,"title":"December 2025","content":"

December 2025

The holiday season is upon us, and we’re excited to bring you our December newsletter
— your backstage pass to all the festive happenings at Stages Theatre Company!

Community updates

📺 Stages Theatre Takes to the Screen!

You may have been seeing more of Stages Theatre Company off the stage and on your screens! On November 29, STC Artistic Director Sandy Boren-Barrett and Henry Halverson (Buddy the Elf in Elf the Musical JR.) joined Leah Beno on the Fox 9 Morning Show to share a preview of our exciting upcoming season.

And just yesterday, we were featured on KARE 11’s Toys for Tots segment, where we delivered the incredible toy donations we’ve received so far. Thank you to everyone who has helped us spread holiday cheer both onstage and in our community!

See The KARE 11 Clip

💐 MIddle School Magic in A Midsummer Night's Dreams

When: December 5th and 6th at 7 PM, December 7th at 2 PM
Where: FAIR School Crystal

“Beneath the laughs, love drives every decision—sometimes questionable, sometimes petty—but always worth it,” says director Bre’Elle Erickson-Chycota. The talented middle school cast is having a blast bringing Shakespeare’s most whimsical comedy to life, full of faeries, magic, and hilarious chaos. Four young Athenians flee to the forest—Hermia and Lysander to be together, Demetrius pursuing Hermia, and Helena chasing Demetrius—while Puck’s mischievous antics and Oberon’s tricks create a whirlwind of comedic confusion.

Meanwhile, Nick Bottom and the “rude mechanicals,” a group of tradesmen, rehearse a play of their own, giving the cast even more opportunities to showcase their humor, timing, and energy. Between mistaken identities, jokes, and love potions, our middle schoolers are thriving in every role, both onstage and behind the scenes, learning, laughing, and creating unforgettable theatre moments.

Bre’Elle reflects, “Whether it’s familial love, romantic love, or the love between friends putting on a play in the forest, we fight for love because it makes us feel alive, seen, and like we belong.” This production celebrates the joy, creativity, and talent of our middle school performers, proving that even in chaos, love—and theatre—is worth every moment.

✨ Looking ahead: FAIR School Crystal will also be presenting Newsies JR in the spring, creating more chances for our amazing middle school performers to shine!

Education Updates

🎭 Mark Your Calendars!

Summer Theatre Workshop 2026 Goes on Sale January 23 at 10AM

Get ready – Summer Theatre Workshop is back with creative adventures for ages 3–6 and skill-building theatre intensives for grades 1–6! From silly story explorations and fairytale quests to K-Pop, Disney Channel hits, Broadway blockbusters, and behind-the-scenes design, there’s a workshop for every young performer. Each week ends with a special sharing for families.

But the fun begins even sooner!

🌷 Spring Break Workshops at Minnesota Children’s Museum Registration is now open!

Spend Spring Break with Stages Theatre Company at the Minnesota Children’s Museum! For grades K–2, students will create characters, solve dramatic mysteries, and explore the museum’s playful exhibits while using their “Actor Tools”—body, voice, imagination. Families are invited to a sharing on the final day.

Spring Break Dates:

Dramatic Mysteries at the Museum – March 23–27, 2026
Dramatic Mysteries at the Museum – March 30–April 3, 2026
Location: Minnesota Children’s Museum, St. Paul

Learn More

Monthly Feature

🎉 A Major Milestone: $150,000 from the Best Buy foundation!

We’re thrilled to announce that Best Buy has awarded Stages Theatre Company $150,000 in support of our Next Generation Campaign! This gift brings us closer to securing and renovating a new Second Stage space — an adaptable home for early‑childhood classes, hands-on learning, internships, and Theatre for the Very Young performances.

The Next Generation Campaign is our bold initiative to raise $2.5 million to expand Stages’ programs, productions, and community outreach. With this funding, we aim to provide more inclusive arts education, create richer storytelling experiences, and increase access for all young people. Key goals include enhancing artistic excellence, growing educational and mentorship programs, upgrading production capabilities, and expanding accessibility through scholarships and inclusive initiatives.

Thanks to this support, we’ll be able to offer more classes, workshops, and performances while giving young artists behind-the-scenes opportunities to learn and grow. We’re deeply grateful to Best Buy and all our supporters for helping us build a brighter, more inclusive future for the next generation of storytellers.

Make a tax deductible donation today

Featured Shows and Events

Toys for Tots Drive

Bring a new, unwrapped toy to Stages Theatre for our Toys for Tots drive! We’ll be collecting toys until December 15th.

2 musicals that will warm your heart

Elf The Musical JR. is on stage now – December 28th.

Giraffes Can’t Dance is on stage January 23 – February 22.

Many performances are sold out!

Purchase Tickets

Starlight Celebration

April 23, 2026

This year’s Starlight Celebration was unforgettable, and it wouldn’t have been possible without you!

Early bird tickets are on sale now!

Learn more

Photos by Amy Rondeau Photography.

","link":"https://www.stagestheatre.org/newsletter/december-2025/","date":"December 5, 2025"},{"id":12857,"title":"November 2025","content":"

November 2025

The holiday season is upon us, and we’re excited to bring you our November newsletter
— your backstage pass to all the festive happenings at Stages Theatre Company!

Community & Education updates

Curtains Up on Winter Fun!

In an incredible show of enthusiasm and support, our Winter Theatre Workshops sold out in under 10 minutes! We are thrilled — and deeply grateful — to our community of young artists and families who continue to make theatre a vital, joyful part of their lives.

A huge shoutout goes to our extraordinary education team, whose creativity, passion, and commitment to young people make these programs truly magical. Their work inspires students to imagine, create, collaborate, and shine — and families clearly feel the impact.

The overwhelming demand is a powerful reminder of how cherished these workshops are, and it highlights exactly why our Next Generation Campaign matters so much.

Thank you for your incredible support and enthusiasm. Our future is bright because of you — and we can’t wait to welcome even more young theatre lovers into our creative home.

Our Winter Session registration just opened last week, so be sure to secure your spot today! https://www.stagestheatre.org/schoolyear/

Learn about the Next Generation Campaign

Donate to our Toys for Tots Drive!

Bring Joy This Holiday Season – Join Our Toys for Tots Drive!

For over 10 years, Stages Theatre Company has proudly partnered with Toys for Tots to bring holiday cheer to children in need throughout our community. As a children’s theatre, we know firsthand the power of imagination, play, and storytelling in brightening a child’s day—and we want every child to feel that same joy during the holiday season.

From November 1 through December 15, we’ll be collecting new, unwrapped toys in the HCA lobby. Each toy donated helps ensure that kids in our area can experience the excitement and happiness of receiving a gift, just like the characters and stories they see on our stage.

Whether you’re coming to a performance, picking up tickets, or visiting the theatre, we invite you to join us in sharing a little extra magic this holiday season. Together, we can continue this beloved tradition of spreading joy to families across Hopkins and beyond!

Learn More

Monthly Feature

Our New Website Is Here — Built for a Better Patron Experience!

We’re thrilled to share that our brand-new Stages Theatre website launched this week!

Thank you to everyone who has already taken a look — we’ve loved hearing your excitement and feedback.

This new site was designed with one goal in mind: to make connecting with Stages Theatre easier, more intuitive, and more inspiring from the moment you arrive. We restructured our pages and menus to make information easier to find — whether you’re looking for upcoming performances, youth theatre classes, audition opportunities, or accessibility resources. It should now take fewer clicks and less searching to get exactly where you need to go.

You’ll also notice a refreshed, welcoming design inspired by the creativity and wonder of youth theatre. The look and feel now better reflect the warmth and imagination you experience every time you visit us in person.

Behind the scenes, we’ve strengthened accessibility tools and ensured a fully mobile-friendly experience — so planning your visit is seamless whether you’re at home or on the go.

Our hope is simple: that this new online home makes engaging with Stages easier, more enjoyable, and more magical for families, educators, artists, and young people alike.

We can’t wait for you to explore! https://www.stagestheatre.org/

Learn more

Featured Shows and Events

Toys for Tots Drive

Bring a new, unwrapped toy to Stages Theatre for our Toys for Tots drive! We’ll be collecting toys until December 15th.

Spookley and the Christmas Kittens

Many performances are sold out! Best ticket availability on the 12:30pm performances.

Learn more

Elf The Musical JR.

This hit will sell out quickly! Be sure to secure your spot today!

Learn more

","link":"https://www.stagestheatre.org/newsletter/november-2025/","date":"November 6, 2025"},{"id":12856,"title":"October 2025","content":"

October 2025

Community & Education updates

Fall Theatre Education Classes are Underway!

The halls of Stages Theatre are buzzing with excitement as our Fall Theatre Education classes officially begin! From the very first day, our students—ranging from imaginative preschoolers to dedicated teens—are stepping into the world of theatre with curiosity, courage, and creativity. Each class is designed to inspire young artists to explore self-expression, build confidence, and develop essential skills that extend far beyond the stage.

For our youngest performers, classes focus on imaginative play, storytelling, and collaborative exercises that allow children to explore emotions and ideas in a safe, supportive environment. Older students are diving into workshops that challenge them to refine their acting, singing, and movement skills while learning the importance of teamwork, focus, and creativity. No matter the age or experience level, every student is encouraged to discover their own voice and shine in the spotlight.

“Each season, we see young people discover new ways to express themselves, grow in confidence, and build friendships that last well beyond the classroom,” says Megan Collins, Education Director. “Fall is such a special time to start that journey.”

At Stages Theatre, education is about more than just performance. It’s about creating an environment where young artists can explore new ideas, take risks, and gain a sense of accomplishment and self-assurance. Students leave class not only with new theatre skills but also with stronger communication, collaboration, and problem-solving abilities—skills that will benefit them in all areas of life.

While registration for fall classes has now closed, there’s plenty of opportunity to get involved in the months ahead. Our winter and spring classes are designed to continue this journey, offering new challenges, exciting projects, and even more ways for young artists to connect with peers who share their passion for theatre.

Learn more and plan ahead for the coming year at www.stagestheatre.org/schoolyear. Whether your child is just discovering the joy of theatre or is already a seasoned performer, Stages Theatre offers a place where every young artist can grow, shine, and thrive.

Learn more

Charlotte Went Shopping in Hopkins

This past month, our tiny friend Charlotte the spider spun her way through Hopkins on a very special adventure! Families followed her journey, discovering Charlotte in some of our community’s most beloved spots—from cozy coffee shops to favorite family hangouts. Each stop brought smiles, laughter, and plenty of photo opportunities as kids and parents alike joined the fun of the Charlotte Hunt.

The best part? Charlotte’s adventure wasn’t just about the thrill of the search. It was also about bringing people together, celebrating our community, and building excitement for the upcoming production of Charlotte’s Web here at Stages Theatre Company. It was wonderful to see families exploring Hopkins, visiting local businesses, and sharing in the joy of storytelling long before the curtain even rises.

We are so grateful to our Hopkins partners who welcomed Charlotte into their spaces:

Hopkins Library
Munkabeans
Kiddywampus
Driskill’s Downtown Market
Designs Rooted in Nature
Amy’s Cupcake Shoppe (Angel Food Bakery)
Thirty Bales
Ovation
Antiques on Mainstreet
Pub 819
Bear Cave Brewing
Cream and Amber
LTD Brewing

Your support helped make this community adventure possible, and it was such a joy to see families exploring Hopkins with a little extra sparkle in their day.

Now that Charlotte’s tour around town has come to an end, the real adventure is about to begin—on stage! Don’t miss your chance to see Charlotte’s Web come to life at Stages Theatre Company, running September 26 – October 26, 2025. This timeless tale of friendship, courage, and kindness is a story for the whole family, and we can’t wait to share it with you.

Get your tickets today and join us for this heartwarming production: www.stagestheatre.org

Learn More

Monthly Feature

Stages Theatre to Host National Reading to End Gun Violence

Stages Theatre Company, in partnership with Washburn Center for Children, is proud to join 70+ communities nationwide for the 4th annual reading of ENOUGH! Plays to End Gun Violence.

This powerful evening features six ten-minute plays written by teens confronting gun violence in America — from school shootings to suicide to domestic violence. Selected from 127 national submissions, these bold works reflect the urgency and emotional impact of growing up in today’s world.

“ENOUGH! is about more than theatre — it’s about listening to youth and sparking real change,” said Michael Cotey, ENOUGH! creator.

By amplifying teen voices on one of today’s most pressing issues, this event creates space for truth, healing, and community-driven action. With support from licensed counselors and a dedicated quiet space, audiences are encouraged to engage, reflect, and be part of the movement to end gun violence.

This event is not only a performance — it’s a call to action. Whether you’re a parent, educator, student, or community member, attending is a way to stand in solidarity with young people and commit to building a safer future together.

“By bringing ENOUGH! to Hopkins, we’re creating a space for truth, action, and healing — so together, we can be the change our community needs.” — Sandy Boren-Barrett, Artistic Director

Hopkins Center for the Arts
Monday, October 6 at 6:30 PM
Free admission | Reservations encouraged

Learn more

Upcoming Events, Shows & Classes

Charlotte’s Web – September 26 – October 26, 2025

Pick of the Patch Pumpkin Fundraiser – October 4, 2025 – 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM

ENOUGH! Plays to End Gun Violence -October 6, 2025

Halloween In Hopkins – October 25, 2025

Spookley and the Christmas Kittens – November 1 – 30, 2025

Elf – The Musical JR. – November 21 – December 28, 2025

Winter Theatre Workshops – December 22-23 & 29-31, 2025

Giraffes Can’t Dance – January 23 – February 22, 2026

The Girl Who Drank The Moon – March 27 – April 19, 2026

The Right Thing To Do: The Joe Mauer Story – April 10 – May 10, 2026

Stages Starlight Celebration – April 23, 2026

Shrek The Musical – June 20 – August 2, 2026

Explorasaurus: A Dinosaur Adventure – August 5 – 23, 2026

","link":"https://www.stagestheatre.org/newsletter/october-2025/","date":"November 6, 2025"},{"id":13174,"title":"September 2025","content":"

September 2025

Community & Education updates

Curtains Up on Winter Fun!

The overwhelming demand is a powerful reminder of how cherished these workshops are, and it highlights exactly why our Next Generation Campaign matters so much.

Thank you for your incredible support and enthusiasm. Our future is bright because of you — and we can’t wait to welcome even more young theatre lovers into our creative home.

Our Winter Session registration just opened last week, so be sure to secure your spot today! https://www.stagestheatre.org/schoolyear/

Learn about the Next Generation Campaign

Donate to our Toys for Tots Drive!

Bring Joy This Holiday Season – Join Our Toys for Tots Drive!

Learn More

Monthly Feature

Our New Website Is Here — Built for a Better Patron Experience!

We’re thrilled to share that our brand-new Stages Theatre website launched this week!

Thank you to everyone who has already taken a look — we’ve loved hearing your excitement and feedback.

Behind the scenes, we’ve strengthened accessibility tools and ensured a fully mobile-friendly experience — so planning your visit is seamless whether you’re at home or on the go.

Our hope is simple: that this new online home makes engaging with Stages easier, more enjoyable, and more magical for families, educators, artists, and young people alike.

We can’t wait for you to explore! https://www.stagestheatre.org/

Learn more

Featured Shows and Events

Toys for Tots Drive

Bring a new, unwrapped toy to Stages Theatre for our Toys for Tots drive! We’ll be collecting toys until December 15th.

Spookley and the Christmas Kittens

Many performances are sold out! Best ticket availability on the 12:30pm performances.

Learn more

Elf The Musical JR.

This hit will sell out quickly! Be sure to secure your spot today!

Learn more

","link":"https://www.stagestheatre.org/newsletter/september-2025/","date":"September 14, 2025"}]

Newsletter

January 2026

Education & Community updates

🎭 Save the Date: Summer Theatre Workshop on Sale Soon!

Save the Date: Summer Theatre Workshop on Sale Soon!

🌙 Auditions For The Girl Who Drank The Moon!

January 12 & 13, 2026 | Hopkins Center for the arts

Monthly Feature

🎉 2025 was a year to remember!

2025 Impact Highlights

Featured Shows and Events

Giraffes Can't Dance

The Girl Who Drank The Moon

March 27 – April 19, 2026

Starlight Celebration

Newsletter

December 2025

Community updates

📺 Stages Theatre Takes to the Screen!

💐 MIddle School Magic in A Midsummer Night's Dreams

Education Updates

🎭 Mark Your Calendars!

Summer Theatre Workshop 2026 Goes on Sale January 23 at 10AM

🌷 Spring Break Workshops at Minnesota Children’s Museum Registration is now open!

Monthly Feature

🎉 A Major Milestone: $150,000 from the Best Buy foundation!

Featured Shows and Events

Toys for Tots Drive

2 musicals that will warm your heart

Starlight Celebration

Newsletter

November 2025

Community & Education updates

Curtains Up on Winter Fun!

Donate to our Toys for Tots Drive!

Bring Joy This Holiday Season – Join Our Toys for Tots Drive!

Monthly Feature

Our New Website Is Here — Built for a Better Patron Experience!

Featured Shows and Events

Toys for Tots Drive

Spookley and the Christmas Kittens

Elf The Musical JR.

Newsletter

October 2025

Community & Education updates

Fall Theatre Education Classes are Underway!

Charlotte Went Shopping in Hopkins

Monthly Feature

Stages Theatre to Host National Reading to End Gun Violence

Upcoming Events, Shows & Classes

Newsletter

September 2025

Community & Education updates

Curtains Up on Winter Fun!

Donate to our Toys for Tots Drive!

Bring Joy This Holiday Season – Join Our Toys for Tots Drive!

Monthly Feature

Our New Website Is Here — Built for a Better Patron Experience!

Featured Shows and Events

Toys for Tots Drive

Spookley and the Christmas Kittens

Elf The Musical JR.

Newsletter

Stay connected with Stages Theatre Company