Imagination Stage

Imagination Stage is a renowned theatre arts organization dedicated to empowering young people through performing arts education and professional theatre. Founded in 1979 as the Bethesda Academy of Performing Arts (BAPA), it began with just 17 children enrolled in its first class at Whitier Woods Elementary School in Bethesda, Maryland. Recognizing the urgent need for arts education, the organization quickly expanded its offerings and reach. In 1988, Imagination Stage introduced the Arts Access Program, designed to make the arts accessible to children with physical and/or cognitive disabilities, now known as Access and Inclusion. A year later, in 1989, the Deaf Access Program was launched to cater to children who are deaf or hard of hearing, further emphasizing the organization's commitment to inclusivity. The year 1992 marked the opening of Imagination Stage's professional children's theatre at White Flint Mall, which allowed the organization to showcase its productions to a broader audience. As the organization continued to grow, it underwent a significant transformation in 2001, changing its name to Imagination Stage. This change prefaced the move to its state-of-the-art theatre arts center in downtown Bethesda in 2003. The new facility, which opened its doors on Auburn Avenue, features the Annette M. and Theodore N. Lerner Family Theatre, inaugurated with the world premiere musical "Junie B. Jones and a Little Monkey Business." This theatre has since been the venue for Imagination Stage's professional Theatre for Young Audiences. Additionally, the Christopher and Dana Reeve Studio Theatre, also established in 2003, serves as a space for performances by the organization's students, including those from acting, dance, musical theatre, access and inclusion, and conservatory programs. Imagination Stage has consistently been recognized for its contributions to children's theatre, commissioning new works annually that have garnered awards and been produced by other companies worldwide. In 2009, a generous donation from Jim and Carol Trawick at the 30th Anniversary Gala completed the capital campaign, allowing for further expansion of programming. That same year, programming for children ages 2-4 was introduced, featuring intimate, participatory plays and installations. The organization's commitment to education and community outreach is evident through initiatives like the Learning Through Theatre program, launched in 2014 to serve Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) Title I third-grade students. That same year, the Theatre for Change program was established with Óyeme, focusing on using theatre productions and educational workshops to bridge cultural divides and uplift underrepresented voices. Imagination Stage's facilities not only host professional and student performances but also offer a wide range of classes in theatre arts that nurture and challenge young people of all abilities, from ages 1 to 18. Disciplines include early childhood, acting, musical theatre, dance, and filmmaking. The organization also extends its reach into the community by providing theatre arts classes and residencies at area schools and bringing its programs to various community groups. With a vision of making theatre experiences a fundamental aspect of children's lives, Imagination Stage continues to inspire creativity, embrace diversity, and encourage young people to overcome challenges with hope, courage, and creativity. Its values of inclusivity, youth development, representation, and responsiveness to the needs of the community are at the heart of all its endeavors.