We are thrilled and extremely thankful to have been awarded the Rays Baseball Foundation Community Fund Grant. This $5,000 grant will be used to support our playwriting and drama outreach programs. Many local children will benefit from the programs that we will be able to provide and we are excited to encourage a new generation of artists and arts patrons in the Tampa Bay area. More that 490 (K-12) students will benefit from the outreach programs that we offer. Select Pinellas County public elementary, middle and high schools as well the Juvenile Detention Center and the YWCA Family Village will benefit from our programming this year.  Our community is an ensemble cast, all of whom deserve a chance in the spotlight, regardless of financial status.

For 11 years, our Teaching Artists have enriched students’ lives, providing challenging and creative activities that encourage them to make positive choices.  The Rays Baseball Foundation grant will make it possible to continue this innovative program and bring life-altering theatrical lessons and experiences to underserved portions of our community.  The Tampa Bay Rays have been a supporter of American Stage for several years, providing opportunities for us to promote the theatre at the stadium and allowing our American Stage in the Park musical cast to come sing before a game.