Encore’s Aspire Illuminate team took the stage at the Utah Summer Games opening ceremonies this weekend, performing a high-energy medley from The Wiz in front of thousands. After months of preparation, this performance marked a milestone moment—proving just how bright our young artists can shine.

At Encore, we believe the ensemble is more than background—they are the heartbeat of the show. In this post, we explore the qualities that make a great ensemble member and why these roles are essential to both the story on stage and the growth of young performers offstage.

Nearly 50 students, families, and guests joined Encore for a Page to Stage trip to see Hamilton at the Smith Center—following a workshop led by Artistic Director Rhett Guter. A post-show Q&A with the tour’s dance captain made the night even more unforgettable.

Encore’s Aspire students traveled to California for an unforgettable weekend of performances, connection, and inspiration. From performing at Disney California Adventure to watching Artistic Director Rhett Guter shine in Annie at the Dolby Theatre, it was a trip filled with growth, magic, and memories that will last a lifetime.

Attending a live theater performance is an exciting experience, but knowing proper audience etiquette can make all the difference for both you and the performers. From arriving on time and silencing your phone to knowing when to applaud, simple courtesies help create an enjoyable atmosphere for everyone. Whether you’re watching a Broadway show or a community theater production, this guide covers the essential dos and don’ts of being a respectful and engaged audience member.

Encore Performing Arts recently took cast members and families on an unforgettable field trip to see the Broadway touring production of Les Misérables at the Eccles Theater. From the excitement of the journey to the emotional impact of the performance, this experience deepened the cast’s connection to the story and inspired their own upcoming production. Read more about the trip, the behind-the-scenes moments, and how this experience is shaping Encore’s Les Misérables, running May 1–6 at the Electric Theater.

New to theater? Learn key stage terms like blocking, cues, and upstaging. Master theater lingo and navigate rehearsals like a pro with this beginner’s guide.

Some of the most beloved musicals of all time started their journey as books, capturing readers’ imaginations before dazzling audiences on stage. From Victor Hugo’s sweeping epic Les Misérables to Gregory Maguire’s Wicked, a fresh take on The Wizard of Oz, literature has inspired some of Broadway’s greatest hits. But how do these adaptations transform a story from page to stage? Theatrical adaptations require creative storytelling, memorable music, and sometimes even major plot changes to make a novel sing—literally. Join us as we explore the novels that inspired legendary musicals, examining what stayed true, what changed, and why some stories are simply meant for the spotlight.