The Upper Darby Summer Stage, a renowned youth theater program, has been awarded a prestigious ,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). This significant recognition supports the program's 50th anniversary season in 2025. The NEA’s Grants for Arts Projects aims to foster creativity and community engagement across the United States. This award underscores the impact of the Summer Stage in nurturing young talent and enriching the cultural landscape of the Philadelphia region. Since its inception, the program has inspired thousands of young individuals to explore their artistic potential through professional-quality performances that captivate audiences of all ages.
Founded in 1976, the Upper Darby Summer Stage has become a cornerstone of youth theater in the area. Recognized as one of America’s top five performing arts summer camps by Playbill, the program brings together over 800 participants each summer to produce eight high-caliber shows within a six-week period. In 2024, the Mainstage production featured an outstanding performance of "Newsies," showcasing the immense talent of its young performers. Chris Luner, the artistic and managing director, expressed deep gratitude for the NEA’s support, which will enable the program to continue inspiring future generations of artists.
The foundation behind the Summer Stage, established in 1998, has dedicated itself to enhancing the lives of young people through educational initiatives, arts opportunities, and community service. Taking over operations of the Summer Stage in 2022, the foundation has reinforced its commitment to fostering creativity and community spirit. The upcoming 50th anniversary season promises to be a milestone event, celebrating the program’s legacy while looking forward to the next half-century of excellence in youth theater.
The NEA’s recent announcement of fiscal year 2025 grants includes 1,127 awards totaling over .8 million, distributed nationwide. Maria Rosario Jackson, Chair of the NEA, highlighted the organization’s mission to support diverse and vibrant arts projects across the country. The Upper Darby Summer Stage exemplifies this vision, offering a platform for young people to embrace values such as bravery, strength, and truth, as they collaborate with professional staff and peers to create exceptional theatrical experiences.
In preparation for the 50th anniversary season, the Summer Stage is set to embark on a journey that not only celebrates past achievements but also paves the way for future innovations. With the NEA’s generous support, the program will continue to inspire and delight audiences, ensuring that the magic of theater remains a vital part of the community’s cultural fabric. The upcoming season promises to be a testament to the enduring power of art and its ability to transform lives.
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