St. George performing arts group to put on Disney’s “Descendants” in support of its unique mission

ST. GEORGE — As they prepare for their upcoming show at The Electric Theater, a donation-dependent nonprofit is asking for the community’s help.

Encore! performs "Wizard of Oz", Date and location unspecified | Photo courtesy of encore!, St. George News
Encore! performs “Wizard of Oz,” date and location not specified | Photo courtesy of Encore!, St. George News

St. George News sat down with Encore! Performing Arts Executive Director Abbey Pearson and Artistic Director Adam Record, who are working to further the nonprofit’s mission of providing quality instruction and mentorship for children ages 8-18, preparing them for a future in performing arts.

“​We’re a charitable organization. In order for this to go on, we have to fundraise. We’re trying to provide scholarships. We’re trying to provide the greatest experience that we can, and there’s a cost to it,” Record said. “Microphones aren’t cheap, spaces are not cheap — licensing. We rely on donations.”

Pearson told St. George News that Encore has a unique backstory, originally being created during the COVID shutdowns by a group of local moms. They were looking for a creative outlet for their kids that would allow them to perform and learn.

 “We had a lot of community support, and everybody was ready to do something because everything was shut down. We were able to put on two really great productions — just this group of moms — and it was awesome,” Pearson said. “If our kids need this, other kids in the community need this, too.”

Encore! performs "Encanto", Date and location unspecified | Photo courtesy of encore!, St. George News
Encore! performs “Encanto,” date and location not specified | Photo courtesy of Encore!, St. George News

Pearson said the goal at Encore is to educate kids by giving them artistic performance opportunities in musical theater while offering high-quality mentors that really care about the craft. She said that it isn’t just about putting on plays and performing, it’s about coupling education and mentorship. 

Record spoke about his experience with the overwhelming amount of artistic talent in Washington County.

“As of last month, we’ve only been in business a year. You would think we’ve been in business for 15 years, as busy as we are,” Record said.

Classes offered at Encore Performing Arts include tap-dancing, acting, ballroom, tumbling, ballet, jazz, improv and more. In addition, they also provide workshops and professional headshots, fully preparing kids for upcoming auditions and performances. Record added that Encore has been able to provide scholarships for kids and plans to continue providing them to qualified students. 

Encore! performs "Lion King", Date and location unspecified | Photo courtesy of encore!, St. George News
Encore! performs “Lion King,” date and location not specified
| Photo courtesy of Encore!, St. George News

Pearson told St. George News that aside from the funding, they face another challenge – finding a place for the students to rehearse and perform. She said space is a scarce commodity in St. George and expressed her appreciation towards both St. George Academy for allowing them to rehearse at their campus and The Electric Theater for providing a space for the classes to be held as well as allowing live performances.

She said she’s found a real passion in helping the kids through Encore and despite some of the challenges they have seen as an organization, she knows firsthand how the nonprofit has positively impacted kids’ lives in Washington County. 

Both Pearson and Record expressed appreciation for the community and hope for continued support.

Pearson said one way to donate to Encore is to purchase a VIP ticket to their upcoming show, Disney’s “Descendants.” This fundraiser ticket will include a backstage pass for kids to come before the matinee that includes activities and pictures with the cast prior to the show. VIP tickets also include an opportunity to watch the live production of the musical. VIP tickets will be for the April 2 and April 9 shows and can be purchased here.

Encore is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, and all donations are tax-deductible as allowable by law. To donate directly, click here.

Event details

  • What: Encore! presents Disney’s “Descendants, the Musical.”
  • When: March 31, April 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, & 9 at 7:30 p.m., with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturdays.
  • Where: Electric Theater, 68 E. Tabernacle St, St. George.
  • Tickets: Tickets are $13 for general admission and $32 for VIP passes.
  • More information: Website.

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