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Our Mission
Schoolhouse Arts Center (SAC) is a non-profit organization committed to fostering an inclusive, educational, and supportive arts environment for our community. Our mission is to provide a space where individuals from all backgrounds can grow, develop skills, and actively participate in high-quality theatre. Through our programming, we prioritize inclusivity, creativity, and personal development, believing that by nurturing individual talents and fostering a sense of belonging, we can collectively create enriching artistic experiences. We remain dedicated to our founding principle that education comes first, knowing that through learning and engagement, meaningful productions will naturally emerge.
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The Three E's:
ENGAGE: Provide opportunities for those to participate in our shows, and aim to serve
as a hub for cultural and civic events within the community.
EDUCATE : Develop a teaching theatre model, where people learn from working
professionals and experienced artists.
ENTERTAIN: Deliver top-quality performances that inspire and entertain.
Founded in 1988 by Hank and Nancy Beebe, Schoolhouse Arts Center (SAC) is a non-profit organization
dedicated to creating an inclusive, educational, and supportive artistic environment. In the 1980’s, after
moving to Maine and promptly flunking retirement, Hank and Nancy opened and revitalized numerous
local theaters, including Biddeford City Theater, the State Theater, Schoolhouse Arts Center, and ACTS.
These productions featured non-traditional casts, often including both professional and first-time actors,
and were open and welcoming to anyone and everyone in the community who dreamed of finding their
“place in the light”.
With a strong belief that education precedes exceptional performances, SAC provides a nurturing space
where community members of all ages and backgrounds can develop their talents, learn new skills, and
participate in high-quality theater productions.
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Schoolhouse produces many high quality productions annually, highlighted by the acclaimed Summer Musical, drawing large audiences with memorable performances like Fiddler on the Roof, Disney's Beauty and the Beast, and Footloose.
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Since the early 2000s, SAC has significantly expanded its educational programs, offering classes, workshops, and performances specifically tailored for youth—from preschool-aged children through teenagers. Popular programs include Junior Musicals, Kids Productions, and themed summer camps covering Directing, Acting, Storybook Theatre, and more. Additionally, our Blackbox Theatre on the building's second floor provides a creative space for The Blackbox Teens, a dynamic youth group. This dedicated teen ensemble independently selects, directs, and performs several productions annually, including The Midwinter One Acts, Truly Talented Kids, and The Fall One Acts, while actively supporting SAC's broader mission.​
SAC is more than a venue; it’s a creative family welcoming community members back year
after year. Our commitment to nurturing individual creativity and personal growth ensures
that every participant finds their "place in the light," making SAC an enduring cornerstone
of community arts.
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We invite you to join our artistic family and experience firsthand why our community continues to thrive.
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Welcome to Schoolhouse Arts Center!
~ THANK YOU TO OUR SEASON SPONSORS ~
