When the dream of making the Newhall Family Theater (NFT) a viable space for the performing arts became reality in 2017, a group of people banded together as the Raising the Curtain Foundation (RTCF). According to founding member Suzan Solomon, “The Newhall School District wanted to partner with community members to bring the Arts and multicultural programs to the Santa Clarita Valley and students from across our valley, and that’s why Raising the Curtain Foundation was formed.”
Tom Lund, manager of the NFT, says, “The Foundation helps achieve our mission of introducing the youth and surrounding community to theater experiences.” In the past, the RTCF has sponsored workshops, such as the Celebration of the Arts, inviting young people to explore the behind-the-scenes crafts in creating theater – lighting design, sound design, costumes, directing, and set design. Most recently, RTCF has sponsored “Saturday’s Kids,” where performances specifically designed for young people give families a way to introduce their children to the magic of theater.
There are many exciting events planned for the upcoming year. Be on the lookout for chances to attend a special workshop with some Broadway actors, a multicultural showcase, and a fun family sing-along night during the city’s Cowboy Festival. And, of course, “Saturday’s Kids” will be back for a new year of performances. The RTCF continues to promote and produce performances and opportunities enhancing the arts for families in the Santa Clarita Valley.