Celebrating 6 Years
Just six years ago, the Pride Community Center of North Central Florida (PCCNCF) and our founding board members launched something extraordinary—a theatre program specifically designed for LGBTQIA+ youth that incorporates mental health support directly into its fabric. That’s how Theatre Connect was born in 2017, and while the faces and places have changed over the years, our show continues to go on. So here’s to another 6 years of LGBTQIA+ affirming theatre and connection.
Open House!
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September 5 | 6:30 - 8:00 PM | GCCC
As we usher in a fresh chapter for our organization, we're excited to announce the Fall 2023 season, which marks the 15th season of Theatre Connect, featuring an innovative new format. We’ll be celebrating at our FREE open house with our partners the Hippodrome, the Gainesville Community Counseling Center (GCCC), and PCCNCF on September 5, from 6:30 - 8:00 PM to ring in our new academic year and new format. Parents and their LGBTQIA+ teens and their allies are welcome to attend. Light refreshments will be served while you meet some special guests! Contact us to RSVP for your free slice(s) of Satchel’s pizza and dietary considerations.
Gainesville Community Counseling Center
3850 NW 83rd St
Suite 201
Gainesville, FL 32606
Other News
New Monthly Format
Our revamped Teen Troupe will hold Theatre Connect rehearsals on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. Our two alternating locations and online community (coming soon) allow even more youth to participate.
First Tuesdays | In Person
For our in-person program, join us on the first Tuesday of each month either at the Gainesville Community Counseling Center or the Hippodrome. At the end of the academic year, we’ll have bonus rehearsals leading to a ticketed showcase performance at the Hippodrome for the allied public!
Third Tuesdays | Online
On third Tuesdays, we'll transition into the digital space, offering online programming accessible to our teens, wherever they are (with parental consent, naturally). This will be accessed through our page’s login feature and will use a private, moderated, and secure Discord server to allow our teens to connect outside of rehearsal with parental permission.
Registration
As always, Theatre Connect remains freely accessible to all LGBTQIA+ teens, grades 6 - 12. Any LGBTQIA+ member of our Teen Troupe may invite one close ally—a sibling, best friend, or partner—regardless of their orientation or gender identity. We never ask anyone to come out or explain themselves to others, we simply ask and fully affirm names and pronouns. Our vision continues to be a sanctuary of inclusivity, diversity, and safety for anyone interested in theatre and building community.
Registration for the Teen Troupe kicks off Tuesday, September 5, at 12:00 PM Eastern Time here on our website. There will also be a registration table at the open house at GCCC later that night.
Future Programming
Beyond the Teen Troupe, we're in the process of collaborating with new partners to develop programming for the broader community, aged 18 and up. Stay tuned for more announcements in the months ahead!
Additionally, Theatre Connect will be opening up to volunteers, with priority for affiliates of our partner programs. If you’re interested in volunteering, please contact us. Or you can join our newsletter!
Round of Applause!
Speaking of partners, our gratitude to our partners and supporters knows no bounds. A heartfelt thank you to GCCC, PCCNCF, and the Hipp for your unwavering support. Kudos to all parents and guardians for encouraging your teens' artistic journeys. A standing ovation for the Teen Troupe, both on stage and behind the scenes. And finally, our deepest appreciation goes to all past, present, and future donors. Your collective energy ensures that the future of Theatre Connect shines ever brighter!
