This summer, Impact Arts is giving Austin theater students a chance to shine in not one but two beloved musicals: Newsies and Cinderella.
Impact Arts’ Summer Stock Austin serves up a double feature of “Newsies” and “Cinderella”
Performers Nyla George and Caleb Clemons stopped by We Are Austin to chat with Trevor Scott about the energy, collaboration and joy behind the nonprofit’s summer stock program, which gives young artists the chance to train, rehearse and perform in full-scale productions.
Performers Nyla George and Caleb Clemons stopped by We Are Austin to chat with Trevor Scott about the energy, collaboration and joy behind the nonprofit’s summer stock program, which gives young artists the chance to train, rehearse and perform in full-scale productions.SS Pic.jpg
A Summer Tradition That Builds Young Artists
Summer stock is more than a stage experience. It is a hands-on training ground for future performers.
“It really is something else,” Nyla said. “I strongly believe that Impact Arts brings out the best in a lot of kids in Austin.”
The program partners with Texas Performing Arts and gives students the opportunity to work on two full-length musicals, along with a one-night-only performance.
Two Shows, One Busy Cast
Caleb is appearing in both productions, playing Prince Christopher in Cinderella and Albert in Newsies.
“That’s kind of what happens at summer stock,” he said. “Someone just throws it at you.”
Nyla plays the Evil Stepmother in Cinderella, and she says the role has been a fun challenge.
“I love being a diva on stage,” she said.
Performers Nyla George and Caleb Clemons stopped by We Are Austin to chat with Trevor Scott about the energy, collaboration and joy behind the nonprofit’s summer stock program, which gives young artists the chance to train, rehearse and perform in full-scale productions.
Why These Roles Matter
Both performers said the productions give them room to explore their characters more deeply.
Caleb said the updated version of Prince Christopher gives him more to work with than the traditional fairy-tale role.
“There’s so much more depth to his character,” he said.
For Nyla, playing the Evil Stepmother has meant leaning into the character’s bigger-than-life personality while finding the reasons behind her behavior.
A Community of Creators
Beyond the stage, both students say the experience has helped them grow as artists and collaborators.
“It teaches you how to take care of yourself,” Caleb said. “I’ve learned so much.”
Nyla agreed that the process is about more than performance.
“What is art if we’re not connecting and creating with one another?” she said.
See the Shows This Summer
Impact Arts will present a one-night-only preview event along with full performances of Newsies and Cinderella this summer.
Performances run July 23 through August 9, with Cinderella playing July 31 through August 9.
For tickets and more information, visit ImpactArts.org.
Impact Arts’ Summer Stock Austin serves up a double feature of “Newsies” and “Cinderella”