Rainbow Company offers summer opportunities

It was 1976 when city of Las Vegas Cultural Affairs Director Pat Marchese recruited Jody Johnston, a master's degree student at UNLV, to teach theater classes to children. A young playwright named Brian Strom was hired, and the new Rainbow Company Youth Theatre troupe began to present productions, starting with "Pippi Longstocking."

The premise was that children would not only learn to act, they would learn the disciplines of stagecraft - all the while keeping them busy, out of trouble and learning valuable life lessons. Over the years, there have been classes in mime, costuming, makeup, stage combat, play writing and all backstage technical skills, as well as acting in this successful program operated by the city of Las Vegas.

The young troupe won recognition from the Children's Theater Association of America as best in the United States and has been winning awards ever since. In the 35 years Rainbow Company has been serving Las Vegas, its stellar reputation has become well-known in the community as well as the nation.

Summer conservatories, classes and performances are held at the Charleston Heights Arts Center, located at 800 S. Brush St. Artistic Director Karen McKenney came to Rainbow Company as a part-time costume designer in 1979. She had been an actress and a director at the California Theatre Center.

"The summer conservatories are a great combination of fun and learning - and a great way to get your kid off the couch," McKenney said.

For two weeks, June 18-29, students ages 8-11 will come daily, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-noon, and students ages 12-17 will meet 1-5 p.m. Both groups will perform on the Charleston Heights Arts Center stage June 30. The cost for the conservatories is $225 per child for the entire two weeks. Space is limited.

For kids who would like a less intense drama experience, Rainbow Company also offers summer classes that meet once a week. Classes for kids ages 4-12 meet on Saturday mornings and classes for teens meet Wednesday evenings. Space is limited.

Each August, auditions are held for the troupe's student ensemble. Young people between the ages of 10 and 17 who are seriously interested in theater are invited to audition Aug. 18 at 1 p.m. at the arts center. Participants receive intensive training in all aspects of the theater, from acting to set construction and ushering. They attend weekly mandatory classes and work on all four of the company's annual productions.

Auditions are scheduled Aug. 25, at 1 p.m. at the arts center for "Tom Sawyer," the first production of the group's 36th season. There will be roles for ages 8 years through older adult. Next season's productions will include the musical "Honk," "Nevada Tales" and a version of "Rapunzel."

For the latest information on Rainbow Company classes, auditions and shows, call 229-6553 or 229-6383, or visit www.artslasvegas.org .