One of the key challenges for Creative Youth Development programs during COVID-19 has been the cancellations of culminating events showcasing the work and growth of young people in these programs. Theater performances, concerts, art shows, and open houses all of have been called off, diminishing the feeling of accomplishment for young people and losing a vital opportunity for the organizations to do fundraising.

The Playwright Mentoring Project at Barrington Stage decided to take action.  In a matter of weeks they were able to perform and record nearly four hours worth of youth-written and youth-directed plays online through Zoom.  Utilizing character ‘entrances’ and ‘exits’ the education staff, including Jane O’Leary and Allison Lerman-Gluck, supported the youth in completing the work of their year.  The performance was livecast from Zoom to YouTube.