SHARON, Conn. — The Sharon Playhouse is introducing The Launchpad Company, a new program dedicated to the memory of Mary Graf, a beloved supporter of the arts who passed away in April 2024.
Her generosity and lifelong passion for theater have inspired the creation of a pre-professional experience for local performers aged 15–20.
The program is named The Launchpad Company because it is designed to launch local youth into their careers as theater artists. As the capstone experience of the Sharon Playhouse’s popular Summer YouthStage Program, it elevates the artistic journey of young people through to adulthood. This audition-based program will feature a tuition-free structure and offer participants a $250 stipend, reflecting the Playhouse’s commitment to fostering a professional atmosphere for its young artists.
“The Launchpad Company is our way of responding to the needs of our local community while honoring Mary Graf’s extraordinary legacy,” said Michael Kevin Baldwin, education and associate artistic director. “We’ve seen that interest in traditional summer theater camps tends to taper off for teens as they seek more advanced opportunities. This program will give them the chance to grow as performers, collaborate at a professional level and contribute to an exciting new chapter for the Playhouse.”
Auditions for The Launchpad Company will take place alongside auditions for the Sharon Playhouse’s MainStage season. The commitment for The Launchpad Company will be from Aug. 4-24, inclusive of both rehearsals and performances.
Individuals or businesses interested in sponsoring the 2025 Launchpad Company should reach out to Baldwin, at mbaldwin@sharonplayhouse.org
The inaugural Launchpad Company production will be the comedic musical sensation, “Once Upon a Mattress!”
