TheActrix Studio Drama Camp Tuition Assistance Fund

Dear Community Angel,

Every child deserves a place after school where they feel safe, inspired, and seen.

That’s why we created TheActrix AfterSchool Studio — a program built on belonging, creativity, and confidence.

1:4 teacher-student ratio
Drama games + storytelling that build self-esteem
A supportive community rooted in respect and joy

But here’s the truth: we can’t do this alone. It takes a community — parents, families, neighbors, and dreamers — to raise children into their full brilliance.

Will you join us in building this creative home?

Enroll Your Child ~ https://theactrix.studio/afterschool
Support with a Donation on this page

Together, we’re creating a stage where every child shines.

With gratitude,
Wendy Spurgeon
Founder, TheActrix Studio

About TheActrix Studio
TheActrix Studio offers soulful, story-driven theatre and youth programs that cultivate self-expression, empathy, and community connection through the performing arts.

Enrollment Now Open for AfterSchool TheActrix! – Where Silver City Youth Shine On Stage

SILVER CITY, NM – TheActrix Studio, in partnership with The Hearth, is now enrolling students for AfterSchool TheActrix! — an enriching drama program for ages 6–12 designed to build confidence, creativity, and community through theatre arts.

"Theatre is more than performance — it’s a way to listen deeply, express boldly, and connect with others across differences," says Wendy Spurgeon, founder of TheActrix Studio and Assistant Librarian at Bayard Public Library. "These kids are learning skills that will serve them for life."

Emily Aversa, Coordinator at The Hearth, adds, "We’re thrilled to see The Hearth filled with laughter, learning, and the magic of young creativity every afternoon."

Walela Davies, a 9 year old returning student from many TheActrix camps and programs says, "It was so much fun. We worked together on so many plays and I really liked it. Wendy was so much fun to work with and she was a great director in our plays and the first time I met Wendy she was very kind and I hope you get to meet Wendy”

Her father, Damien Davies notes, “I cannot say enough good things about the summer drama camp series. Both of my daughters aged 6 and 9 were obsessed with the activities and learned an incredible amount in a very short time. As a former youth worker in Grant County I can say without a doubt that this is one of the best things going on for youth in our town. They learned so much more than just drama principles. They learned about teamwork, confidence, emotional intelligence, reading, and problem solving just to name a few. The plays were well put together and provided a stage in which all of the kids were able to have that amazing feeling of being center stage and all of the confidence that comes with that experience. My kids had a safe space with amazing adults who not only taught but also impressed upon them the feeling of being a part of a community. In a world that seems to value art less every year in its educational system it is programs like this that keep the flame lit. Art and expression has been found to be one of the best ways in which to provide support for youth in growing up to be healthy and happy human beings. We need more of it in our world and this program is doing just that. I promise you that when you send your kids to camp during the summer or any of their events they will return happier and with a joy that is contagious.”

Special Thanks to Silver City Theatre!

Silver City Theatre Awards Tuition Scholarships to Local Youth for Summer Drama Camps

SILVER CITY, NM — [July 14, 2025] — This summer, the stage came alive for three young aspiring performers thanks to the generosity of Silver City Theatre, a local non-profit dedicated to nurturing the performing arts in the community. Through a special tuition scholarship initiative, two families received substantial support to enroll their children in TheActrix Studio LLC’s 2025 Summer Drama Camp programs.

The scholarships were awarded based on an essay contest embedded in the camp’s registration process. Students and parents were invited to share why the experience would be meaningful to them. After a thoughtful review, the panel selected two families, supporting a total of three students, to attend the camps at significantly reduced cost.

"We were thrilled to support young talent this summer," said Jim Charleston, Executive Director of Silver City Theatre. "This program aligns perfectly with our mission to make Grant County a destination for theatre-goers worldwide. With the mines closing by 2037 a sustainable, renewable and eco-friendly theatre economy is a logical transition. Building our talent base is essential to making that happen. Theactrix Studios LLC is poised to build that base"

TheActrix Studio, founded by local theater educator and director Wendy Spurgeon, offers dynamic, play-based drama camps designed to spark creativity, build confidence, and foster collaboration in young people.

“Because TheActrix Studio is an LLC and not a non-profit, we do not qualify to participate in larger community giving initiatives like Give Grandly, to build scholarship funds for local families,” said Wendy Spurgeon, TheActrix Studio Founder. “I’ve had the pleasure of working with SCT as an actress and director in the past, and now partnering with SCT to support our growing talent pool is a great blessing! Not only for youth and families, but for the future of performing arts in our community.”

The recipients included Sophia Carter (8), and siblings Stella (9) and Jett Hogan (6), who dove enthusiastically into camp life—rehearsing scenes, crafting costumes, and performing for family and friends by week’s end.

“I've always dreamed of being in acting on a stage. My big brother and sister are my inspiration because they did it their whole childhood. I want to be an actress and singer!” said Stella.

Jett added, “I love plays and want to learn to be an actress. I love fun and this camp was so fun!”

Sophia’s mother, Catarina Fuentes, expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity.

“We're both so very grateful that there are people in the community who are willing to do things like this. Sophia has been telling me she wants to be an actor since she was a toddler, so being able to participate in this drama camp has made her so incredibly happy.”

The scholarship program not only helped ease the financial burden for local families, but also gave the children lasting memories, new friendships, and a meaningful introduction to the performing arts.

As Silver City Theatre and TheActrix Studio look ahead, both organizations are exploring ways to expand this partnership and reach even more young performers in summers to come.

For more information about upcoming programs or to contribute to future scholarship funds, please contact:

TheActrix Studio LLC
[[email protected]] | [(575)297-7851] | [https://theactrix.studio/give ]

Silver City Theatre
[[email protected]] | [303-349-8727] | [https://www.silvercitycommunitytheater.com/]

Meet the 2025 Faculty for TheActrix Summer Drama Camps: A Stellar Cast of Teaching Artists Ready to Inspire!

Wendy Spurgeon

Admin, Lead Teacher & Workshop Leader

A veteran of the stage and classroom, Wendy brings decades of experience as a director, performer, and arts educator. Her leadership and warmth set the tone for every camper's experience.

Quote:

"Summer theatre camps are where magic and mayhem meet — and I absolutely love guiding young actors through both!"

Ana Trinidad

Admin, Lead Teacher & Workshop Leader

Ana combines a rich background in drama education with a commitment to creating inclusive, imaginative spaces. She's known for her collaborative spirit and dynamic teaching style.

Quote:

"There's nothing better than watching a shy camper become the star of their own story."

Hallie Harris

Lead Teacher & Workshop Leader

Hallie is a multi-disciplinary artist whose energetic and empathetic approach makes her a favorite among returning campers. She specializes in improvisation, storytelling, and performance coaching.

Quote:"I love the simple act of courage of standing up and telling a story. Performance can be courageous and generous at its heart and we practice both of these things through small steps in the rehearsal room."

Elliza Mollman

Lead Teacher / Co-Teacher

Elliza brings a musical theatre background and boundless enthusiasm to every rehearsal room. She's passionate about making the arts accessible and exciting for every camper.

Quote:

"This summer, we're not just making plays — we're making memories that will last a lifetime."

Siobhan Pyper

Co-Teacher

Siobhan's warmth and creativity help campers feel at home on stage. She brings a supportive, nurturing presence to her work with younger campers.

Quote:

"Seeing campers laugh, connect, and grow through drama is the best part of my summer."

Faith Pellegrino

Co-Teacher

Faith is a dedicated young artist with a passion for youth education and the performing arts. Her high-energy teaching style keeps campers engaged and excited.

Quote:

"Get ready to sing, dance, act, and have a blast — summer at TheActrix is like no other!"

Registration is now open, and spots are filling fast! Don't miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable summer of theatre, friendship, and fun. For more information, visit https://theactrix.studio/afterschool or email [email protected].