From Access to Impact: PAA’s Outreach Program

At PAA, we believe the performing arts are not a luxury—they are a vital part of a young person’s growth, confidence, and self-expression.

Every child and teen should have the opportunity to experience the joy, confidence, and connection that musical theatre can ignite. PAA outreach programs make this possible by removing financial barriers and expanding access to high-quality arts education.

Since 2014, PAA’s Outreach Programs have transformed over 700 lives through thoughtfully designed experiences that build confidence, boost social skills, and empower kids to go beyond what they think is possible. 

These thoughtfully designed experiences serve Title 1 schools, their families, and their communities throughout the year. 

During the school year, PAA partners with Title 1 schools and provides afterschool programming within each school. 

During the summer, kids can explore PAA’s Acting Up or Theatre in Action programs. While each program may carry its own name and unique identity, they are all united by a shared mission: to bring the performing arts to students, schools, and communities who may not otherwise have access. 

“Our programs are intentionally inclusive, welcoming students of all backgrounds, experience levels, and abilities. Whether a child is stepping onto an imaginary stage for the very first time or already brimming with theatrical curiosity, there is a place for them here. In this way, our outreach becomes not just a program, but an open door.” – PAA Education & Outreach Manager, Jennifer Lillibridge

PAA Outreach programs plant seeds of possibility, helping young people see themselves as storytellers, leaders, and valued members of a community. 

Each moment on stage nurtures empathy, collaboration, creativity, and confidence while meeting students where they are,

It starts by creating a safe and supportive space where students feel seen, heard, and valued. 

This sets the stage for young people to take creative risks without fear of judgment, to express themselves authentically, and to build trust with both peers and teaching artists. 

Creating a sense of safety fosters artistic growth and emotional confidence, and allows students to step forward with courage, knowing they belong.

Learn how you can help transform students through the power of the performing arts through PAA’s  Building Dreams Beyond the Stage campaign or  Donation page. 

Over the next five years, PAA’s vision includes expanding into more schools and providing additional outreach programs. This kind of growth is achieved through community support and donations. 

Your support helps:

• Sustain a no-barrier or low-cost model for students and families
• Strengthen partnerships built on trust, consistency, and care
• Invest in skilled teaching artists who are deeply aligned with PAA’s mission

“PAA’s outreach programs are about more than theater. They are about the quiet moment when a shy student finds their voice, the spark of pride after a first performance, and the sense of belonging that comes from creating something together. It’s about reaching far beyond our walls and into the lives of those who need it most,”  shares Lillibridge. 

You can help make this impact possible.

Learn more about how to support PAA through our Building Dreams Beyond the Stage campaign or by donating today.

Together, we can ensure that every student has access to the confidence, creativity, and connection that the performing arts provide.