Summer Youth Program Comes Alive at Portland Community Theater

Kurt Fedewa
28 minutes ago
2 min read

This summer, 63 young people are building lifelong skills, discovering their creativity, and making lasting friendships through the Portland Community Theater Summer Youth Program.

"I'm very favorably impressed by the talent I see in these young people," said program director Devann Hattis, one of the three adult directors. "We have talented participants from both Portland school systems, as well as from Ionia and Pewamo-Westphalia."

The program begins by giving participants a strong foundation in the basics of theater.

"We spend the first week teaching fundamental theater skills," said Hattis. "At the end of that week, students audition for roles in the three productions we're presenting this summer. Once casting is complete, everyone is assigned either an acting role or an important technical position, such as lighting, sound, or backstage production."

This year's Summer Youth Program features three exciting productions.

Hattis is directing the musical version of Charlotte's Web, bringing the beloved classic to life with lively songs, colorful characters, and energetic dancing.

Marriah Lawler is directing Villain's School, a hilarious comedy set at a school for aspiring lawbreakers. The story follows Frank, a new student who unexpectedly breaks the school's biggest rule—he falls in love.

The third production, Little Women, Then and Now, is directed by Logan Reeves. Inspired by the timeless classic, the show offers an entertaining and thoughtful experience that audiences of all ages are sure to enjoy.

Hattis says the benefits of the program extend far beyond the stage.

"We're teaching skills like time management, teamwork, communication, and responsibility," she said. "The growth these young people experience goes well beyond learning theater. The program helps shape them into confident, capable young adults."

Hattis knows the value of the program firsthand. She participated in summer theater herself as a young person and says the lessons she learned have remained with her throughout her life.

"I still use the skills I learned here," she said. "They continue to help me every day."

She is inspired by the dedication, enthusiasm, and talent displayed by this year's participants.

"Summer theater is about much more than entertainment," Hattis said. "It's about helping young people grow."

Performance Schedule

Charlotte's Web

• Wednesday, July 8 — 7:00 p.m.

• Saturday, July 11 — 2:00 p.m.

Villain's School

• Thursday, July 9 — 7:00 p.m.

• Saturday, July 11 — 7:00 p.m.

Little Women, Then and Now

• Friday, July 10 — 7:00 p.m.