Opening Act

For nine years, Opening Act, a community program,  has empowered hundreds of girls throughout Denver to step confidently into the spotlight—both on stage and in their everyday lives through theatre arts that foster confidence and self-esteem. Now that Opening Act is expanding to reach even more students, we ask our community to support us. Colorado Gives Day is a pivotal opportunity to maintain this life-changing program—ensuring the stage lights stay bright, scripts are ready, and every aspiring girl gets her chance to shine.

Testimonials

Ny’Laela has participated in Opening Act activities for three years.  She says her experiences have helped her become a better communicator. Her newly developed skills have helped her make friends and have deeper, more meaningful conversations with her family. When Ny’Laela grows up, she wants to be in a profession that helps others. We believe the communication skills she is developing through Opening Act will help her reach her goals.

---

"First and foremost, I want to thank you for introducing my family to your outstanding mentorship program for adolescent African American girls known as Opening Act. More importantly, my four-year-old granddaughter also thanks you. She participated in the Opening Act theatre camp this past summer and loved it. In fact, she can't stop talking about her experience as the Princess of Color, who Lives on a Rainbow! The Opening Act camp really allowed her to blossom. After the first day, I noticed an improvement in her personality and behavior. She really identified with the self-assurance, self-discipline, and self-esteem lessons taught during the camp, and began to realize her hidden capabilities. She was able to express her feelings and articulate her interests extremely well by the conclusion of the two-week program. to this day, the benefits of her involvement continue to be ongoing." -- Sandrena B. Robinson

"It is no secret that theatre and the arts in which many children, particularly those who come from more ethnically diverse backgrounds, may have little to no exposure. Further, it is even rarer to have programs tailored to experiences that reflect the lives and identities of girls of color. As a parent of a child, Sade, whom has been introduced to some exceptional experiences through Opening Act, I have seen the impact those experiences can have with invigorating an untapped interest in a child. Opening Act is a worthwhile investment to elevate the experiences of young girls of color. Based on my daughter's experiences, I know Ms. Cordy will plan exceptional learning opportunities that will elevate not only the artistic skills of participating young ladies, but confidence in their abilities in speech, self-perception, and the manner in which they carry themselves." -- Biaze Houston