The creative arts bring forth emotions, feelings, and experiences and helps both youth and adults tap into personal growth toward living a more purposeful life. Arc Stages, a multifaceted arts organization in Pleasantville, is playing an integral role in introducing the power of the theater as a pathway toward living a fully engaged, connecting people with their imagination, and broadening their perspectives.
“Out of all of the benefits of theatre, the most important is that it promotes compassion and empathy. Society needs right about now, with the chance to learn about theatre, create theatre, and see professional theatre,” said Adam David Cohen, founder, and artistic director. Three additional founders include Marlene Canapi, chief growth strategist and cultural officer; Stephanie Kovacs Cohen, education stage, artistic director; and Ann-Ngaire Martin, community stage, artistic director. “Our mission is to perform, teach, and create art for and with the community,” Cohen added.
Three Theatre Companies Under One Roof
The unique organization, located at 147 Wheeler Avenue, is comprised of three theatre companies under one roof – The Next Stage, a professional theatre company that will produce high quality contemporary theatre as well as new works, cabaret, workshops and staged readings under contract with Actors’ Equity Association; The Community Stage, a community theatre company for a wide spectrum of actors, singers, and technicians to work on shows, both on and off stage; and The Educational Stage, an educational theatre company for all ages (ten months through adult) to explore the world of theatre though a professional rehearsal process, master classes, outreach, performance workshops, and intensive ensemble work.
“These three theatres better serve the community and its artistic needs. The idea of our organization is it’s an ‘arc’ encompassing all of the three types of stages we produce – education, community, and professional equity,” said Canapi, adding, “The concept gives our audiences a well-rounded theatre experience.”
Additionally, Arc Stages offers private coaching in voice; on-site after-school programs in improv, acting, and musical theatre; and a Visions & Voices Playwriting Residency, a BOCES-accredited program supported by ArtsWestchester, that introduces students to the world of the stage and self-expression and promotes literacy and writing skills.
This summer, the organization is featuring a robust summer camp comprised of classes in Acting Technique, Choreography, Improv & Theater Games, Stage Combat, Songwriting, Costume Design, Dance, and more. “The skills learned in these classes will be incorporated into the rehearsal of shows that will be performed at the culmination of each respective section,” said Canapi. “Our goal is to ready our physical footprint to open our season of shows starting in September.”
The concept for the theatre came from Martin who belonged to the Chappaqua Drama Group (CDG). “She had the idea to join forces with Adam David Cohen. At that time, Adam ran a theatre education program called the Little Village Playhouse. CDG sold the Chappaqua property and the sale was the seed money that helped fund Phase 1 of Arc Stages,” explained Canapi. From there, it has become a valuable space in the heart of the village of Pleasantville. “Arc Stages is part of the growth of the village. We’re fortunate to engage a community of theatre fans who are art lovers and supporters.”
Pleasantville Community Support
The village of Pleasantville is important to Canapi. “Years ago, I was part of a group of community leaders who worked at a Master Plan to elevate the downtown business district. We wanted to develop the identity of the village as an arts destination, with the Jacob Burns Film Center and the Gordon Parks Foundation and now Arc Stages. We believe we are indeed an arts destination,” she said, appreciating the immense community support the nonprofit has received. “It’s really amazing how we developed a theatre community who is so supportive of our Phase 2 effort to build a 150-seat Proscenium Theatre for performances.
The new theatre allows us to choose content with a bigger cast from a bigger library of theatre works, including socially relevant theatre. According to Cohen the new space will offer exceptional opportunities for everyone involved. “Theatre creates community, offers representation to marginalized communities, and inspires audiences. With this new space we will not have any limitations on what we produce; therefore, we will reach more people from different walks of life,” he said. Currently, the nonprofit is in its last phase of its Capital Campaign with a fundraising goal of $500,000.
Through Arc Stages, Cohen hopes to provide an enriching experience, along with thought- provoking fun. “A way to lose yourself in art but with a greater appreciation of humanity,” said Cohen who is a theatre composer who has worked in the industry teaching, directing, and musical directing since 1997. “For me, theatre provides a form of collaborative expression you can’t find anywhere else. Whether taking a class, performing in a show, working backstage or being in the audience, theatre takes us on a collective journey and helps us embrace our similarities and our differences. The magic of telling an important story on a stage through the collaboration of writers, composers, actors, designers, and countless others, never gets old. It’s always exciting, and quite often profound.”
Creative expression is a positive pathway toward discovering your talents while developing social skills, working with others, and increasing confidence. Former professional actors Carmel and Charley Riggs know those are just some of the benefits people receive from the arts. As co-owners of Chappaqua Creative Arts (CCA), the couple strives to promote social development for all ages through theater and education. “The company’s mission is to create a safe space to allow individuals to step into different roles and perspectives, encouraging growth and self-discovery,” said Carmel of the nonprofit theater company. “Drama-based learning helps develop emotional intelligence and creativity in students. We want young and old alike to have fun and foster critical thinking while working together and developing meaningful relationships to take with them on life’s journey.”
