Youth Outreach Production & High School Internships (2026-2027)
Coachella Valley Repertory’s youth engagement programs provide transformative theatrical experiences that address critical issues facing young people while fostering creativity, empathy, and personal growth. The Bully Plays, featuring Henry’s Law by Stacie Lents, explores bullying, peer pressure, identity conflict, and online influence through performances by local high school students under professional mentorship. Theatre for Young Audiences presents Huck Finn by Greg Banks, using imaginative storytelling to promote literacy, social-emotional learning, friendship, courage, and moral development. Through free student matinees, transportation support, post-show discussions, and school safety resources, these programs extend learning beyond the stage. CVRep also leads the High School Technical Theatre Internship Program, providing scholarship-supported training and hands-on experience in production disciplines while introducing students to career pathways in the creative industries. With support from the Anderson Children’s Foundation, CVRep continues to create safe, inclusive, and engaging opportunities for youth to learn, connect, and thrive.
Contact: Adam Karsten Executive Artistic Director
Email: akarsten@cvrep.org or grants@cvrep.org
Youth Outreach Production (2025-2026, 2024-2025, 2023-2024)
CVRep’s Annual Youth Outreach Production presents Power Play by Lindsay Price, a compelling theatrical experience for Coachella Valley students that explores the roots and impact of school violence. The story examines school violence in many forms, from tragic acts but also the subtle, everyday forms of violence students face—such as bullying, cyber abuse, and emotional manipulation. Through live performance, post-show discussions, and informative resources, the program sparks critical dialogue on empathy, identity, mental health, and personal responsibility. The production features local student actors in professional roles, provides free access to youth audiences, covers transportation costs, and offers students tools to seek help and report bullying anonymously. With support from the Anderson Children’s Foundation, CVRep continues to provide a safe, inclusive, and engaging space for youth to reflect, connect, and grow.
Contact: Adam Karsten, Executive Artistic Director
Email: akarsten@cvrep.org