dev.citrusheightssentinel.com

Tag: Royal Stage

  • Performing arts group celebrates grand opening at Sunrise Mall

    Performing arts group celebrates grand opening at Sunrise Mall

    Attendees mingle during a grand opening ceremony for Royal Stage at Sunrise Mall on Sept. 9, 2022. // M. Hazlip

    By Sara Beth Williams–
    A local performing arts group celebrated the grand opening of a new dedicated performance space inside the Sunrise Mall on Friday.

    The Sept. 9 ribbon cutting for Royal Stage Performing and Visual Arts’ brand-new studio and performance space took place at the organization’s new location, located inside Sunrise Mall between Macy’s Mens and Zumiez.

    The interior features a small platform stage, black box style, only feet from the audience. Several rows of chairs were set out for guests to sit and talk while an array of solo and group performances from Royal Stage students took place throughout the evening in open-mic style. Attendees also filled padded benches that lined the walls.

    Two tables of refreshments were available for attendees while they celebrated with each other and listened to performances. Guests were also invited to autograph their name on the wall directly backstage.

    Arielle Hoekstra, an art teacher and theater and dance participant with Royal Stage, said the construction of a new studio has been an “absolute blessing.”

    Diane Ebbitt, executive director of the Citrus Heights Chamber of Commerce, said in an interview that the opening of the new studio is “fabulous,” adding that the theater will bring more patrons and families to Sunrise Mall.

    “I think it’s a wonderful opportunity for the kids of Citrus Heights to be able to have a place to go and live out their dreams,” Ebbitt said.

    The nonprofit was awarded a $25,000 grant from the City of Citrus Heights’ economic development fund in the spring of 2022 and spent the summer renovating the new performance space. The group also received other financial donations throughout the summer.

    Jeannie Bruins, a longtime Citrus Heights City Council member, echoed Ebbitt’s optimistic sentiments, adding that it was a “delight” to have the funds available to help the nonprofit construct a new studio.

    “It’s an example of thinking outside the box,” Bruins said, noting that the economic development funds don’t typically go toward performing arts groups, but that the council was able to see the positive impact a new theater would have inside the Sunrise Mall.

    The performing arts group continues to offer multiple classes and rehearsals every week at their main studio space, located at 1220 Melody Ln. in Roseville. The new location at the mall is not replacing the Roseville-based studio, but will allow for additional class space and a dedicated performance space.

    Previously, the group had been utilizing various churches and schools across the region for performances.

  • Royal Stage to host grand opening next month at Sunrise Mall

    An external entrance for Royal Stage is shown at Sunrise Mall. // S. Williams

    By Sara Beth Williams–
    A nonprofit performing and visual arts group is preparing to open its new studio and theater at Sunrise Mall next month, after facing delays but receiving some significant community donations to help renovate the 8,200-square-foot space.

    Royal Stage Executive Director Tamara Warta announced in April during a belated tenth anniversary gala dinner that they had signed a three-year lease inside the Sunrise Mall. Plans are underway for a 200-seat black box style theater with a lobby, stage, dance studio, and concessions area. The opening was slated for July, 2022, but delays have pushed the opening back until September, 2022.

    In a June 23 City Council meeting, Royal Stage was awarded a $25,000 grant from the City of Citrus Heights, which was given to help cover the costs of construction, marketing, and programming for the new space.

    Warta confirmed that the nonprofit has also received another grant, along with other donations that have helped bring the dream of a permanent theater space to life.

    Warta said the nonprofit received a grant from the California Arts Council’s Arts & Cultural Organizations General Operating relief fund. As well, L&H Airco donated $2,000 in materials, as well as volunteer time and company trucks with tools and ladders to help assist with necessary repairs during the renovation.

    Marc Reid, project manager with L&H Airco, said the company has “always been very community-minded and charitable,” noting that individuals who worked off the clock willingly volunteered their time to help with electrical repairs.

    Warta also praised a host of volunteers for their assistance during renovation, one of those being Reid’s wife, Shayne, a life and business coach who helped book and organize the many volunteers.

    “We love the arts,” Shayne Reid said in an interview with The Sentinel, noting that Royal Stage has a close-knit, community-oriented atmosphere during productions. “They have great directors and put on great shows.”

    “It has been such a challenging and incredible experience getting this building ready,” Warta said. “We have been honored by the true generosity and enthusiasm of the community.”

    While it was previously reported that Royal Stage’s new location was to open over the summer, the nonprofit has pushed their grand opening back until Sept. 9, 2022. Warta said city staff have been “incredible and supportive,” but also said doing things right and making sure the building is safe and up to code takes time.

    In a previous report, Warta stated that the performing arts group spent eight years hopping from homes to churches across the Sacramento region to put on performances. She confirmed with the Sentinel on Aug. 17 that the current main studio space, located at 1220 Melody Ln. in Roseville will continue to offer multiple classes and rehearsals every week.

    The new location at the mall is not replacing the Roseville-based studio, but will allow for additional class space and a dedicated performance space.

    Warta hopes to welcome as many people to their classes as possible, and said their goal is to make students feel “royal, loved, and worthy, both by God and through our positive arts programming.”

    Royal Stage was established in 2010 with a mission to offer safe and encouraging classes and camps for children, youth and adults. Classes are open to those with any faith or background, but the organization operates as a Christian nonprofit. Fall classes are open and information is available on their website.