Following the outstanding success of last summer’s “Sister Act: The Musical,” A Community Encore Production announces its production of “Anastasia,” running July 17-19, 2026, at the Journey Bank Community Arts Center.
A Community Encore Production is a partnership between the Community Theatre League, Journey Bank Community Arts Center, and Lycoming College’s music and theater departments. The collaboration provides local students with the opportunity to work alongside professional artists while performing on the region’s premier stage.
“Performances are designed to give students direct instruction by professional-level theater instructors, designers, choreographers and directors,” said Ana Gonzalez-White, director of development and community relations for the Journey Bank Community Arts Center. “As a result of this collaborating partnership with the Community Theatre League and industry professionals, the Community Encore Production program stands out artistically and closely mirrors true Broadway on every front and offers an incredible opportunity for area students.”
Inspired by the beloved animated film and the Broadway musical, “Anastasia” is a sweeping story of identity, courage and discovery. Set against post-revolutionary Russia and the glamour of 1920s Paris, the musical follows Anya, a young woman with no memory of her past, as she embarks on a daring journey to uncover who she truly is. With soaring music, dynamic ensemble moments and richly layered characters, “Anastasia” offers extraordinary opportunities for young performers to shine.
Auditions will be held in early May 2026 and are open to students currently in eighth grade (entering ninth grade in Fall 2026) through graduating seniors in the class of 2026. Performers of all experience levels – actors, singers, dancers and storytellers – are encouraged to audition.
“Encore is about giving young artists the chance to rise to a professional standard,” said Seth Sponhouse, executive artistic director of Community Theatre League and director of “Anastasia.” “This show is epic, emotional and filled with opportunities for students to challenge themselves and grow.”
“I grew up in Williamsport, and this stage was always something to aspire to: It represented what was possible,” Sponhouse continued. “To now stand in the house and see students from school districts all over our region sharing that same stage is incredibly moving. It’s a reminder that the arts don’t just build performers; they build confidence, community and a sense of belonging. Watching these young artists take ownership of a space like the Journey Bank Community Arts Center is truly special.”
“A Community Encore Production represents everything the Journey Bank Community Arts Center values about youth arts programming: collaboration, excellence and access,” said Brooke Styborski, director of operations at the Journey Bank Community Arts Center. “It’s about creating an environment where young artists feel supported, challenged, and inspired to discover what they’re capable of, both onstage and off.”
The initiative builds on a long tradition of summer youth arts programming in the region, from ACT UP! to the Summer Stock collaborations with Lycoming College. Community Encore Production’s “Anastasia” marks an exciting new chapter for students performing on the Journey Bank Community Arts Center stage.
Additional audition, casting, and ticket information will be announced soon at ctlshows.com and caclive.com.