What some students, past students, parents, board members, and adult actors have to say about us:

“StageDoor is one of the few places in this world that no matter who you are and what you are like it is accepted”

~Colton Schavietello, current student

* * * * *

“One of the things that I found through StageDoor, however cliché, was myself. I always had a problem talking to people I didn’t know, singing in front of people, speaking in front of the class or even speaking up in class…until StageDoor. It gave me confidence to be myself around everyone because at StageDoor, being myself was good enough. It was a family that accepted me for exactly who I am, and it helped me fuel my passion. I don’t think I would have had the nerve to pursue performing if I hadn’t decided to audition for that first musical.”

~Chelsea Smith, current student

* * * * *

“Without theatre in my life, I would not be the person I am today. I am eternally grateful for StageDoor Theatre. StageDoor has helped hundreds of kids develop skills and confidence that will help them in all areas of their lives. They become part of a team that creates something positive and meaningful. The StageDoor family has given me the support and tools I need to succeed in life and in theatre. I have learned that through theatre, a great understanding of human nature can be reached. To portray a character, one must have complete understanding of the character. The process of developing various unique characters has shed new light on how I perceive myself and other people. I have learned to understand and accept people on a deeper level which has helped me to reach a better understanding of myself. The challenge of deciphering between my thoughts and the character’s thoughts always expands how I perceive myself, almost as if I am able to look at myself through the eyes of the character.

Theatre is extremely important in our society. Nothing can replace the power of a live performance. A single show has the ability to touch hundreds of people in ways that even TV or movies cannot. The art of live performance draws the audience in, allowing them to become a part of the show on an emotional level. When an actor is standing on the stage he or she has the power to change the point of view of each audience member. An actor has the power to spread inspiration and hope. He or she has the power to connect with the audience, to give people a new perspective, and to change attitudes, affecting how people relate in the world.

I have learned countless life lessons at StageDoor. I have learned how to accept rejection, how to love others, how to love myself, how to be disciplined, how to follow instructions, and how to live my passion. The art of theatre has helped me to craft myself into the person I am and the person I wish to become.”

~Jenna Haimes, current student

* * * * *

“I’m not quite sure what I should say. There are of course many literal and material things that I have learned over my years at “the door.” I like to think that I have become a much greater actor, singer, and dancer since I joined StageDoor about 7 years ago (it may be 8, I don’t quite remember exactly when I joined, it was a long time ago). All of that is well and good, and I do thank StageDoor immensely for giving me talents that I never dreamed I would have (not to sound full of my self, I know I am far from perfect). But what I truly have learned from StageDoor is self confidence. While I am still fairly shy in the outside world, at StageDoor I can feel comfortable. I feel that I can express myself, that the bonds of everyday society just float away. I am truly free within my craft, which is something few kids can relate to. That is what I like about StageDoor, and that is also what I have learned. I feel as if I wrote too much, but this is what I felt like writing down, because it is the truth, and I hope other kids will be able to have the same or similar experience I had in discovering themselves.”

~Jacob Russell, current student

* * * * *

“I believe StageDoor influenced me positively in many ways! It is the space in which I was allowed to practice and hone my musical, theatrical and dancing abilities. All of those abilities are important parts of my life to this day and without the comfortable and encouraging atmosphere that StageDoor provided for me I am unable to say for sure if I would have the passion and ambition in music and theatre that I do today. They weren’t my only venue of performance, but my time there will stay with me for the rest of my life. As I attend college for classical voice performance now I can see how pivotal my high school years in StageDoor were for the direction of my life!

Thank you StageDoor!”

~Matt Adrian, graduate

* * * * *

“Stage Door Theatre has greatly enriched the lives in my family. I’ve enjoyed the opportunities I’ve had performing in some of the Company’s productions, my husband loves the camaraderie he’s shared with others building sets, and my children’s experiences in the educational program have been extremely rewarding. With my involvement at StageDoor Theatre, I have had the opportunity to witness anecdotal evidence of the efficacy of StageDoor’s educational program. Both of my children have built friendships that I am convinced will be life-long. The environment in the educational program is not always found in other theatre programs. The students are all supportive of the other students, regardless of experience and talent. Some children who seldom experience approval by others have been embraced by those in this program. I have heard about students in the group who have discouraged drug use by others and they have addressed those who have been tempted to say things that are hurtful to others. It is a great environment for parents who are seeking positive, healthy influences for their children.

The expectations of the directors in StageDoor’s educational program are high. The work ethic that is developed in the program is useful in many endeavors in which the students will find themselves involved in the future. Additionally, my son Ben has mentioned that the StageDoor kids have talked about how easy it is to get up and give speeches in class without experiencing nervousness of any kind.

My son Daniel’s experiences at StageDoor have led him to pursue a career in the performing arts and he recently started working as a Disneyland performer in California. When Dan was chosen as an extra for the movie “Killing Katie Malone” he was convinced that the numerous performances he had with StageDoor worked in his favor. The director told him that the extras were some of the best he has ever used. Dan gives StageDoor credit for giving him an extensive resume that got him noticed by this director and by Disney.

Thank you so much for what StageDoor has provided for my whole family.”

~Gwynn Mayeux, parent of graduate and current student

* * * * *

“Stagedoor was not only a community for Mark, it was a second family! The kids gave each other support, acceptance, and encouragement. The skills he learned from performing on stage have given him an immense self-confidence and the ability to handle many social situations.”

~Sue Petersen, parent of 2007 graduate

* * * * *

“StageDoor came into Zac’s life as a result of his brother, Patrick’s involvement, at a point in time when he was searching for direction in his life. It gave him the confidence to venture outside of his comfort zone and exposed him to new experiences which helped enrich his life. He was immediately accepted by the other students and surrounded by a great group of friends, some of whom continue to be his best friends today. We are thankful that StageDoor was there to become such an important part of his life.”

~Patty Foxx, parent of graduate & current student

* * * * *

“I have learned how to work as a team with a bunch of other people in order to do something great. I love how StageDoor gives me a place to experiment with different forms of art like dance, acting and singing. It’s like my home away from home.”

~Katie Holz, current student

* * * * *

“There are several reasons I’m so passionate about this special place. The amazing shows that Nelson, Belinda and everyone puts together are just “icing on the cake” and I’m proud to be part of the process. Each year I watch these kids grow in confidence and with the values we all hope to give our children. I watch them welcome newcomers with open arms, even when these newcomers take lead parts. I watch the older kids welcome the new ones and help make them fit in. I watch them bond and support each other in an atmosphere of extreme growth – pushing past their individual comfort levels, with the knowledge that they won’t be ridiculed or teased, just supported and applauded.

In a time where mediocrity is the norm, we continually ask these kids to excel; we expect more than their very best and we get more than we ever expected. Somehow our kids are taught through their experiences at StageDoor that they can do more than they ever believed that with hard work, some blood, sweat and tears, they can excel at whatever they want to. I strongly believe that these are lessons that all the StageDoor kids take with them – the knowledge that if they want it enough, whatever their goal is, they can achieve it.”

~Deb Christensen, accompanist, board member

* * * * *

“StageDoor has really become a home to me. I’ve found a wonderful place where I am perfectly comfortable to express myself. It’s been a great experience so far, and I’m very happy I still have more years to continue performing in shows. StageDoor has also opened up a lot of opportunities for me. I’ve been able to pursue me acting career more confidently with all these shows on my resume. I’ve been a “featured extra” in two short films, gone on many auditions for film and television, and been able to book an agent. Not only have my acting skills improved just being in the shows I’ve been a part of, but the additional acting classes StageDoor offers has been a huge help. I’ve gone from bursting into tears at public auditions to someone who can put herself out there and still have a great time. Definitely a wonderful experience.”

~Kelsey Willcox, current student

* * * * *

“What a gem! Finding a first rate community theatre in a small mountain town is a terrific surprise!” “StageDoor is an asset to the Conifer Community. Not many metropolitan areas can provide such a quality community theatre experience.”

~Cindy Walker, actor, adult company

* * * * *

“I was so impressed with the Annie Jr. rehearsal. Elle has been to so many disappointing theatre schools that were low energy and not exciting. Yours is off the charts fantastic. We are thrilled. Thank you.

Thanks again and again. You all are really bringing back the fun of theatre.”

~Ashley Williamson

Some Reviews of our shows at StageDoor………………

Phenomenal show last night!!! Absolutely over the top!! Thank you for making sure I did not miss it!!

Hope it’s a great weekend for you all!

Karen Bettinger

* * * * *

What a show! What a cast! Wow! I saw the matinee last Sunday and was so impressed and loved the show so much that I wanted to see it again—-and so I did last night. Everyone in the production and everyone who had anything to do with the production are to be congratulated. The casting was perfect and all performed each role and part perfectly. The Perch ” Orchestra” was terrific! What a job! Everyone must be exhausted after each performance. Please, tell everyone how great they were. I would like to see all of the cast continue in theatre or music – what talent! Anyhow, congrats! What a wonderful production!

Break a leg!

Starr Kraus

* * * * *

Nelson & Belinda,

Well….you’ve done it again!!!…….I was in awe once I sat down and watched those kids perform – their commitment, dedication, and talent left me speechless!!! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! Our children would never have been on this journey without you!!

–Karyn Holz

* * * * *

What a show!

Monday, May 11, 2009 7:46 PM

From: “karensmaniotto@xx . ”

To: lora@stagedoortheatre.org

Hi Lora,

WOW! What a talented group of awesome kids with obvious Tony award winning direction!

All of the actors/dancers/musicians/sound/lighting/props/stage/costumes were spectacular! Dancing stenog desks? – it was crazy fun to watch! I could go on and on. We had such a great time and I smiled all day today just thinking about the show! I wanted to tell everyone to go see it but it’s sold out! I want to go again! What creativity! Belinda and Nelson are quite the amazing pair! They should be so proud of what they produced! Not only was the show fabulous but then to also be entertained by the band’s live music was a steal at $16! StageDoor is an incredibly special place – thank you to all of you for all that you do for our community and kids! BRAVO!

Mark, Karen and Max

* * * * *

WOW!

From: “Kim.thulin@xxxx. ” <

To: education@stagedoortheatre.org

To Belinda, Nelson, Pam…..and the fine actors and actresses of Thoroughly Modern Millie,

WOW .WOW.WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We were just absolutely blown away by the performance opening night. The acting, singing, dancing, choreography, costumes, orchestra….they were all stellar! I have found myself thinking about the play all weekend long. McKenna bought the soundtrack and hasn’t stopped singing! You all did an amazing job, and it was a fun treat to be wowed by our own local theater! Rusty commented that this play was better than the plays we pay big money for at the performing arts center in Denver , and I agree!

We won’t miss a single one!

Keep it up,

Kim, Rusty, McKenna Thulin, and Shari Sorenson

PS: my favorite choreography: the rolling desks with tapping secretaries! Fun!!!!!!

* * * * *

Wednesday, May13, 2009 12:18 PM

From: Janet_redord@xxxxx.

To: Lora@stagedoortheatre.org

Lora,

The show is awesome. Duane and I would’ve gone to every single show if we could’ve; it blew us away in talent, humor, caliber of performance, and so much more. Words are inadequate; people have to experience StageDoor to get the “Ah-ha!”

Janet

* * * * *

Saturday, September 22, 2007 7:21 AM

From: “Peter and Mary Betts” <

To: lora@stagedoortheatre.org

Hi Lora,

Your students provided a great performance. They seemed to really ‘live’ the character’ and provided a real sense of the anger the crowd had to revolt.

Casey, Ty and I really enjoyed the production. It may be the best one that

we have seen at StageDoor.

Thanks.

Best,

Peter

* * * * *

Saturday, September 22, 2007 10:00 AM

From: “Melanie Johnson”

To: lora@stagedoortheatre.org

WOW Lora!

Saw Urinetown last night.

Conifer should certainly be proud! What a production from folks so young in a theater so small!

This production rivaled some of the things I’ve seen down at Temple Buell at the Performing Arts Center in Denver! Not kidding.

I was so impressed with the talent of the leads. Wow.

We very much enjoyed ourselves, as did our children. They were still talking about it this morning.

Melanie Johnson

* * * * *

Re: “Urinetown”

Sunday, September 23, 2007 6:30 AM

From: “Winkler Mark”

To: lora@stagedoortheatre.org

Lora,

We loved the show. This is the third time I’ve seen Urinetown done and StageDoor’s version exceeded the other two in many aspects.

Fantastic job!

Mark

* * * * *

Re: Sunday, September 23, 2007 2:59 PM

To: lora@stagedoortheatre.org

Hi Lora,

Ted and I REALLY enjoyed the play last night!

We laughed and were entertained the entire night.

Tell everyone “GOOD JOB

We are so lucky to have such talented children & dedicated parents in our “hometown”.

Keep up the good work!

Carla & Ted Mink