Nonprofit Theater In Montclair Is ‘Beacon Of Hope, Progress’ (VIDEO)

MONTCLAIR, NJ — A nonprofit theater in Montclair has earned some kudos from the NBCU Academy for being a “a beacon of hope and progress” in Essex County.

A crew from the award-winning education program – developed by NBCUniversal – recently paid a visit to the Vanguard Theater at 180 Bloomfield Avenue in Montclair to check out rehearsals for its production of “Legally Blonde” and interview its cast members (watch the video below).

Founded in 2015 under the leadership of producing artistic director Janeece Freeman Clark, the Vanguard has weathered storms such as the coronavirus pandemic as it provides a home for plays that spotlight diversity and inclusion. See Related: COVID Shut This Montclair Theater Down. Now It's Back – Big Time

According to a news release:

“In the heart of Montclair, New Jersey, Vanguard Theater Company stands as more than just a cultural institution—it's a beacon of hope and progress. By challenging traditional theater norms and championing diversity and inclusion, Vanguard sets a standard for the transformative power of the arts. Through conscious casting and bold storytelling, they redefine what it means to truly represent the rich tapestry of human experience on stage. Vanguard Theater Company's approach serves as a catalyst for social change, empowering audiences to see themselves reflected onstage and fostering understanding and connection within the community. Through inclusive practices and thought-provoking educational programming, Vanguard creates spaces where important conversations thrive, ultimately promoting empathy and greater unity.”

The Vanguard Theater Company's commitment to breaking stereotypes and fostering representation is evident in recent performances such as “Legally Blonde the Musical,” where Gabby Beredo and Nia Rodriguez – of Asian and Afro-Latina heritage respectively – shared the role of Elle Woods.

Similarly, in Vanguard’s professional productions like "Next To Normal," the company tackled taboo topics such as mental health within the Black community by casting a Black woman in the lead role.

Meanwhile, the theater’s educational programs include efforts such as:

• VTC Next: Trains the next generation of "behind-the-scenes" artists, including writers, directors, producers, choreographers, designers, and more.
• The Broadway Buddy Mentorship Program: Offers one-on-one mentorship for artists aged 12 to 24, providing invaluable guidance from accomplished Broadway performers.
• VTC Kids: Teaches young actors, ages 8–13, to believe in their creative ideas, express them bravely, and support their peers, skills essential for both the stage and life.
• Special Programs: Specialized programs, such as personalized piano sessions and group vocal training tailored to neurodivergent individuals for students with autism.

Freeman Clark said the theater’s mission has roots in her own journey of confronting typecasting and marginalization as a young Black woman in the industry. Central to her vision is the concept of “conscious casting,” a deliberate approach to selecting actors that ensures representation and diversity on stage.

“Conscious casting is about being mindful of the impact that casting decisions have on the story, the audience, the performers and the broader cultural landscape,” Freeman-Clark said.

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