Stagebridge

Stagebridge is a theater company created by and for older adults. It offers professionally led performing arts workshops and public performance opportunities for more than 5,000 participants each year. In addition to its programming at senior centers and residential nursing homes, Stagebridge offers participatory storytelling programs at local elementary schools for second- through fifth-grade students. Renewed support will assist the organization in diversifying its participants, strengthening its board, and continuing to build its financial sustainability.

Founded in 1978 Stagebridge is the West Coast’s only performing arts company of, by, and for seniors. Each year the Oakland based organization enrolls hundreds of local seniors in theater and musical theater classes led by instructors from high quality institutions such as Berkeley Repertory Theater, the American Conservatory of Theater and Bay Area Theater Sports. In addition to providing musical and acting training to seniors, the company has developed a program in which Stagebridge seniors teach story telling in Alameda county elementary schools. The company mounts a production each year that is marketed to the general public (and which had a three week sell out run at the Ashby Stage in 2010). However, the focus of Stagebridge’s work is on increasing access and deepening engagement for many East Bay seniors who embrace the arts a means of combating loneliness, the onset of some mental illnesses and in reconnecting with singing, dancing and playing creatively with others that they enjoyed earlier in life. With Hewlett support Stagebridge will be able to continue its outreach efforts and partnerships with senior centers in Oakland’s Latino and Asian American and African American communities. (Renewal, $120,000/3; 7% of budget)

Stagebridge, located in Oakland, California, is a nationally recognized performing arts organization created by and for older adults. It offers professionally led performing arts workshops and public performance opportunities for more than 3,000 participants each year. In addition to its programming at senior centers and residential nursing homes, Stagebridge offers participatory storytelling programs at local elementary schools for second through fifth-grade students. Renewed support will assist the organization in maintaining its core programs, strengthen its board, and continue to build financial sustainability following a significant overhaul of its programs and streamlining of resources during the last grant period.