Studio 35 members attend play at the Thomas Jefferson Community Center Theatre
Arlington, VA – July 25, 2012 – As a new “living arts” initiative at Fellowship Health Resources, Inc. (FHR), individuals enjoyed another trip to the local theatre to watch the newly-released performance of The Pirates of Penzance.
Tickets for this performance were generously donated by Encore Stage and Studio, making it the third time that they have supported FHR’s program with such donations. “We’re very grateful for Encore’s generous contributions,” says Regional Director Larry Ferguson. “We’d love to be able to continue Studio 35’s art initiative in this new and innovative way.”
Studio 35 is FHR’s diverse healing arts recovery program. Experiencing The Pirates of Penzance and other past performances represents a creative initiative and offers Studio 35 members the opportunity to experience different types of art. The “living arts” program uses the experience of live theatre as just one way to continue to grow Studio 35 at FHR Virginia.
Intensive Community Residential Treatment (ICRT) and Independent Supported Living Services (ISLS) Program members enjoyed the two-hour production at the Thomas Jefferson Community Center Theatre. One ISLS member said, “This is the best way to spend a rainy Saturday. I love coming to these plays.”
Other individuals commented on the extravagant costumes and the different scenes. Overall, the performance was well-received and well-appreciated by everyone at FHR. Aileen Pangan, from Encore Stage and Studio, said that they enjoy building this relationship with FHR as well.
“We were delighted to donate tickets to Fellowship Health Resources for The Pirates of Penzance,” Pangan explains. “It was a very special production because Helen Hayes Award Winners Erin Driscoll and Chris Sizemore starred as Frederic and Mabel in the show.”
Mental Health Counselor Sarah James says that she could not be happier with the foundation of this relationship. “It is wonderful to be able to expose our members to this type of art, and it provides an opportunity for everyone to mingle with the community,” James says. “It’s always a great time, and we are so grateful to have started this community partnership with Encore Stage and Studio.”
FHR extends its appreciation to Encore Theatres and the Thomas Jefferson Community Center Theatre for making this wonderful event possible. For more information about upcoming events in Virginia, please contact Larry Ferguson at 703-979-5077.