By Sara Beth Williams–
Citrus Heights’ only local community theater group is marking its 15th anniversary with a weekend full of celebratory activities planned on Sept. 5 and 6.
Royal Stage, a community-focused theater and performing arts nonprofit serves both Roseville and Citrus Heights with community theater opportunities, dance classes, summer camps, and other performing arts opportunities.
Alumni, current students, families, and friends are all invited to take part in the anniversary activities, which will include live performances, free classes, worship, and plenty of food, games and fun.
The anniversary celebration kicks off on Friday, Sept. 5, with the return of Friday Night Shine, a community talent show event that takes place one to two times per year. From 5 to 7 p.m., the evening will feature 15 community talent acts in honor of 15 years. The free event will take place in the theater at Sunrise Mall.
As the evening winds down, the theater will host a candlelight worship service at 9 p.m. The worship service offers a quiet, reflective space and an opportunity for attendees to pray, give thanks, or reflect on the ways the theater has impacted lives.
During the day on Saturday, Sept. 6, the theater is offering free classes at its Roseville studio from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Children, teens, and adults alike can try out one-hour sessions in dance or theater at no cost. Classes are offered for all ages, from as young as two years old.
“This special open-house style event is designed to give the community a taste of what Royal Stage offers throughout the year,” the nonprofit said on its website.
Saturday night, the nonprofit will host a Barnyard Bash, also located at its Roseville studio. Beginning at 5 p.m. the Backyard Bash will feature a line dancing class, a barbeque dinner, and quirky games like “stick horse beauty pageant.” The free event will take place at Royal Stage’s studio, located at 1000 Sunrise Ave Suite 10 B in Roseville.
Royal Stage debuted its 8,500 square foot permanent performance space in Citrus Heights in September 2022 after years of performing plays on stages in schools and churches across Sacramento County.
Related: Royal Stage to host grand opening next month at Sunrise Mall – Citrus Heights Sentinel
The nonprofit was awarded a $25,000 grant from the City of Citrus Heights in June of the same year, which was used to help cover the costs of construction, marketing, and programming for the new space.
The nonprofit also received a grant from the California Arts Council’s Arts & Cultural Organizations General Operating relief fund. Additionally, L&H Airco donated $2,000 in materials, as well as volunteer time and company trucks with tools and ladders to help assist with necessary repairs during the renovation.
The building required thousands of dollars in renovations and electrical work, but Royal Stage founder Tamara Warta said she loves the space. In previous interviews, Warta said the theater isn’t going anywhere, despite the uncertainty of circumstances surrounding Sunrise Mall.
Royal Stage was established in 2010 with a mission to offer safe and encouraging classes and camps for children, youth and adults. Classes are open to those with any faith or background, but the organization operates as a Christian nonprofit. Fall classes are open and information is available on their website.
