Art and Community.

Encore was founded in 2002, and the group began really because we were a little sedentary at work and wanted to do something more than what we did every day in our jobs. I had just previously watched the crazy Andrew Lloyd Webber birthday concert and that’s what sparked the whole idea. In the beginning, we had about 40 in our choir, 8 in the orchestra, and about 20 dancers, roughly. Over the years, we grew much bigger (and quickly). Our largest show was at World Showplace (Epcot Center) and we had 400 in the choir, 100 in the orchestra, 60 dancers, 12 actors, and a production team of about 40. It was insane! But, it proved that what we had started years ago in its most humble means, was something that people needed and wanted. And today, we are still going! It’s a blessing and something that I never take for granted!

I honestly think that everyone needs this outlet. Our cast work in roles across the Central Florida community in their “day jobs”. Life can get very mundane and stale. So, I think that was a big part of starting this group. Everyone should have an outlet to work out those creative muscles, even if it’s not what they do “professionally” on a day-to-day basis. Even though most of our cast aren’t “professionals” in the Entertainment world, their dedication to creating the best show we can is no different than someone who’s been performing professionally their entire life. To me, that’s one of the greatest rewards as well with this group. Seeing the pure joy of a novice performer getting to shine in the spotlight on stage is one of the best feelings ever. I get to help create that magic for them and it’s something I hold very close to my heart!

Everyone involved in Encore Performing Arts donates all of their time, which is truly an amazing testament to the performers in our community. Over our 21 years, we have donated approximately $300,000.00 to local Central Florida Charities. 

I think what’s been constant over the past 20 years is the passion and love for this group. There have been so many faces that have come and gone. Some that we see year after year and some that only stay for a short time. But, the one thing that stays the same is the sense of family and pride for what we do. To be able to give back to our community and offer everyone an outlet to be creative has never changed. And, as long as I can keep that going, I will never let that change.