When we began choosing a show for this summer, our young people were clear: they wanted to create something for children and bring joy to kids across Washington, DC—especially those who need it most right now. Disney’s Descendants: The Musical was a perfect fit. It is funny, energetic, and full of music, while also exploring belonging, second chances, and the freedom to become more than others expect of you.
Our cast and crew have carried that joy to summer camps in some of DC’s most underserved neighborhoods, including programs with the Boys & Girls Club and the DC Department of Parks and Recreation. For some children, it was their first experience with live theatre. Their faces lit up and their giggles filled the room as they watched young role models from their own communities take the stage. We hope they left not only entertained, but also imagining new possibilities for their own futures.
That feels especially important in the current political climate in Washington, when division and uncertainty can make young people feel powerless or unheard. Descendants offers a different message: “We are stronger. All of us together.” Theatre allows young people to experience that truth firsthand—to listen to one another, create something collectively, and recognize the value of every person’s voice.
Over the past six weeks, 42 teens and young adults ages 14–24 have worked together to bring this production to life. They have trained in acting, singing, dance, technical theatre, teamwork, and professional production while preparing a full-scale musical and touring it throughout the city. I am incredibly proud of the confidence, creativity, perseverance, and care they have shown, both onstage and behind the scenes.
Theatre 202 grew out of years of creating theatre with young people in DC public schools and our belief that they deserve an artistic home where their voices, ideas, and talents are taken seriously. We create bold, transformative theatre with, by, and for young changemakers—not only to produce great shows, but also to build community, develop leaders, and help young people recognize their own power.
This summer program is presented in partnership with the Marion Barry Summer Youth Employment Program and supported by the DC Department of Parks and Recreation. While the city makes it possible for most eligible participants to be paid during the summer, Theatre 202 must raise the funds to pay young artists throughout the rest of the year, as well as provide stipends for those who have aged out of MBSYEP or are otherwise ineligible. Our participants are already asking what play we are doing next, and we want to make sure they continue to have a creative home where their work is valued and compensated.
Your support helps us provide year-round paid opportunities, high-quality training, production materials, transportation, meals, and stipends for DC youth. Please consider making a tax-deductible donation at www.theatre202.org, through Cash App at $theatre202, or through Venmo at @theatre202.
Thank you for celebrating these remarkable young artists and for believing, as we do, that we are stronger—all of us together. Enjoy the show!
Caity Schneeman
Director
Founder and Executive Director, Theatre 202
