Rehearsals are already underway for Draper Arts Council’s production of Rogers & Hammerstein’s “The Sound of Music.” The show, which will open on May 30 at Draper Amphitheater, is the first musical theater production of the 2025 season. Draper Arts Council will also present “Beetlejuice Jr.” in August and the big band concert, “Dancing In the Stars,” in September.

Thomas Sharkey, president of Draper Arts Council, said, “We believe our offerings fulfill our mission to promote and support the performing arts and to provide a variety of opportunities for children of all ages to perform and support our productions.”

Every summer, Draper Arts Council produces family-friendly shows and concerts as well as the Summer Youth Theater Workshop for kids ages 6 to 14. The workshop not only gives kids a taste of the performing arts but helps them build self-confidence. 

Sharkey explained that getting hands-on experience in putting on a theatrical production “gives kids an opportunity to explore their creativity” and learn skills such as teamwork and public speaking. He speaks from personal experience. “I got into theater in high school and carried those skills throughout my career,” he said. “Theater got me out of my shell.”

Tamara Stokes, the producer behind the Summer Youth Theater Workshop, agreed that kids can benefit in many ways from participating in the performing arts. She spoke of “the confidence you learn by being in front of people.” Stokes described the workshop as “a great way for kids to get their feet wet in theater.” 

The Summer Youth Theater Workshop runs from June 23 through July 3. Participants are organized by age group where they learn skills in acting, singing and dancing. Stokes gave examples of past workshop topics which focused on how to do a monologue and the basics of theatrical make-up. “About 40% of it is learning to put on a show,” she explained. “It’s a compacted two-week course.”

The annual workshops culminate in a production at the amphitheater featuring all of the participants. “Everyone will get time on stage,” Stokes said. “Kids can choose a speaking part, a solo or to have an ensemble role.” The show for the 2025 season has not yet been determined. In the past, the kids have put on an adaptation of a familiar story like “Cinderella” or a variety show. 

Director Lisa Noyes and a small team of theater teachers from local high schools lead the Summer Youth Theater Workshop. Classes and rehearsals are held at American Preparatory Academy in Draper although the final production will be presented at the amphitheater. Each participant receives a t-shirt and a daily snack. The cost is $90 for 6- and 7-year-olds and $180 for kids ages 8 to 14. 

This summer, Draper Arts Council will offer both morning and afternoon workshop sessions. “We’re giving twice as many kids the opportunity to participate,” Stokes said. Up to 120 kids will be able to take the workshop this year. 

Stokes commented about the high demand for youth theater programming in the community. “There is a lot of art, a lot of talent here in Draper,” she said. 

She has been volunteering with Draper Arts Council since 2007. Stokes described the job of a producer for Draper Arts Council as being “the pinch-hitter” behind the scenes. “We are the volunteers in charge of it all,” she added, explaining that the producer for each show is responsible for things like hiring the director and purchasing the rights.

“I love what the Arts Council stands for,” she said. “It’s a way to get involved in the community in a family-friendly, creative environment.” 

Online registration for the Summer Youth Theater Workshop opens at 9 a.m. on May 5 and is expected to fill up quickly. Visit www.draperutah.gov/events-programs/draper-arts-council/summer-youth-theater-workshop to sign up. λ