Creative Outlets Take Center Stage

Dating back to the 6th Century B.C., Ancient Greeks were the first to present dramatic presentations that we know today as theater. For centuries since, people have enjoyed art forms such as drama, comedy, music, dance, and other forms of entertainment that take place on stage. The Grand Strand is fortunate to have several non-profit theatres local to us that are still alive and ready to entertain throughout the year.

Long Bay Theatre
Long Bay Theatre’s mission is to ignite positive change in the cultural, social, and economic vitality in the Myrtle Beach community by producing world-class plays and musicals that entertain, challenge, and inspire audiences of all ages. They are strongly committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion in every aspect of their work both on and off the stage. They also offer educational programs, classes, workshops, and private coaching and are actively seeking out ways to reach the underserved members of our community. According to Executive Director Greg London, “Our job as artists is to remind our fellow human beings of our shared humanity, that better days are coming, to point the way to a different, more fulsome future.” By donating, you are helping create amazing theatre with world-class talent, gorgeous sets, lights, music, and costumes, as well as educational programs, jobs, scholarships, business partnerships, and ultimately, a place where the community can come together for a shared experience to laugh, cry, sing, dance, learn, love, share, and grow. To purchase tickets and provide support, please call 843-212-2333 or visit www.longbaytheatre.com.

Theatre of the Republic & Coastal Youth Theatre
The Theatre of the Republic’s purpose is to be a major cultural resource to the community by providing affordable, quality, and diverse theatre. Located in Conway, the Theatre of the Republic is also home to the Coastal Youth Theatre, an opportunity for young students to receive coaching in acting, singing, and dance. Classes are designed to encourage each child to use their imagination and creativity to their fullest potential. Theatre is a safe way to expose kids to difficult situations and show them first-hand how to handle these situations as well as expose young people to new vocabulary and ways of communicating. Through the arts of dance, acting, and music, children learn how to communicate in a variety of unique ways. Children who attend live theater have shown greater tolerance of different people and ideas, as well as increased empathy for others. In addition to the coaching benefits, the program teaches students to respect fellow students as well as improve their memorization techniques, reading skills, and their confidence on and off the stage. For more information about classes, shows, and contributions, please call 843-488-0821 or visit www.theatreoftherepublic.com.

Coastal Youth Ballet Theatre
The Coastal Youth Ballet Theatre’s mission is to promote arts appreciation and cultural enhancement in the community as well as provide access to high-caliber ballet training and performance opportunities through training, scholarships, and outreach programs. Located in The Market Common, this organization is uniquely positioned to combine the performing arts with youth development. By providing a nurturing and intensive artistic home base, talented young dancers can better prepare for the professional world by learning life skills such as discipline, patience, respect, perseverance, determination, adaptability, and resilience. They serve the community with outreach performances every year for socio-civic events as well as for area youth that do not traditionally have access to arts programming. Through philanthropic donations, the Coastal Youth Ballet Theatre offers a limited number of scholarships to need-based families whose children meet the criteria. For donations or information about upcoming performances, please call 843-839-5678 or visit www.coastalyouthballettheatre.org.

Strand Theater
The Strand Theater was originally built in 1941 as a movie theater located in downtown Georgetown. Although it closed thirty years later, the Strand Theater and its marquee are icons of historic downtown Front Street. In 1982, the Swamp Fox Players purchased the old historic building and converted it into a place suitable for live theatrical performances. After traveling to many area venues to perform (their slogan was “Have Stage Will Travel”), the swamp Fox Players finally claimed Strand Theater as their permanent home. Since their takeover, a 1600-square-foot addition was added to the rear of the theater including a green room, several more dressing rooms, a rehearsal room, and a workshop. Later, the lobby and balcony were redecorated, the carpet was installed, and a new main curtain and wall curtains were added. They also unveiled their new theater seats and floor and will continue to improve and upgrade the wonderful old theater as they grow. To enjoy live community theatre or academy award-winning movies, please call 843-527-2924 or visit www.swampfoxplayers.com