Lakewood Playhouse Grant Spurs Youth Theater Education

A grant from Clover Park Rotary to the Lakewood Playhouse is fast-fueling the theater group's youth education programs.

"This grant will enable students of Southgate Elementary to participate in a full-scale production of Peter Pan," said Maggie Knott, playhouse education director.

Knott said students are provided with an opportunity to build confidence and acting skills and creatively express themselves on the playhouse stage.

Lakewood Playhouse, which has entertained residents for more than 50 years, fixes its focus on children ages seven through 18 to produce 15 programs per year.

"The theater's primary function is youth education," says Knott.

Students are guided through the making of a theater production, from rehearsal to public performance. Students can receive scholarships based on their need and no one is turned away.

The playhouse did not disclose the amount of the Rotary grant, but described it as generous.

The playhouse also provides local Lakewood residents with the opportunity to audition for shows or volunteer for daily theater operations. Volunteers can contribute their time at the ticket sales window, in youth education or as a theater host.

The Lakewood Playhouse is now featuring The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, a family comedy by Barbara Robinson.

Show times can be found at http://www.lakewoodplayhouse.org/season.html. The playhouse also offers pay-what-you-can performances if your wallet is light on show day.

To contact the Lakewood Playhouse for shows, volunteer opportunities, auditions, ticket sales or youth education, call 253-588-0042.