It's amazing what we can do when we come together.

Schmata Productions is an award winning, non-profit, community youth theatre committed to fostering communication, problem-solving, and self-confidence in today's youth. We are an inclusive group that works with youth from many different schools, religions, ethnic backgrounds, abilities, & more. We strive for a family feeling; helping our students learn patience & tolerance, teaching acceptance of all, & guiding our older students to mentor the younger ones. These are just a few of the things that make our group different from many others!

We are grateful to the Beth Chaim Reform Congregation for providing rehearsal and Summer Experience space. as well as welcoming all of our students regardless of religion, school district, or ability to pay.


A BIT OF HISTORY

​Once upon a time a couple of BCRC members thought it would be fun to celebrate the completion of their new building by doing a show. Natalie talked to Marcy and Marcy talked to Gina. These 3 ladies decided to tackle the job of helping to put on Fiddler on the Roof, Jr. One of the first questions asked was, "What is our budget?" Of course the response was, "We don't have one!" 

With the response of, "We'll make our costumes out of rags!" and "Schmatas for all!" laughter ensued (which happens quite often with our group). The name stuck and Schmata Productions was born. More than 13 years and many shows later, we have grown as a group and as a family.


COMMUNITY OUTREACH

​Schmata Productions reaches into the community in many ways. The musical theatre program is run entirely by volunteers who give generously of their time, talents, and energy. Several community members without students in the program return year after year to help!


Scholarships: we believe that any child who wants to participate in the arts deserves that opportunity. We offer scholarships to several students each year for both our musical theatre program and our Summer Experience programs.


Giving Back: we strive to give back to the many communities that are home to our students. Our musical theatre program has:

  • donated to the Lew Kagel Foundation, which provides Jewish education and experiences to those in need;
  • donated to Uptown! Studios in West Chester, PA;
  • provided mentoring and volunteer opportunities for students pursuing service hours and graduation projects.

​Our Summer Experience program has:

  • collected food items for local families in need;
  • collected items for local animal rescue organizations;
  • crafted and donated hand-made toys and other items for PALS, Cat Angel Network, All 4 Paws, and more;
  • crafted and donated hand-made "fidget" items to special needs students at the Vanguard School;
  • provided mentoring and volunteer opportunities for students pursuing service hours and graduation projects;

Do you or your organization have an idea or opportunity to help us continue to give back to our community? 

  • Scholarships for students to attend our School Year Musical are always welcome. The typical fee for the year (which includes scripts, CD, T-shirt, costumes, props, programs, photos, headshots, & more) is $350.
  • Rental of Theater space for our musical (typically West Chester University MainStage Theater) runs approximately $5000 each year.
  • Summer Experience tuition typically is $260 for a full day full week program. This includes materials, counselors, rental of space, costumes, props, outside instructors, & more).
  • Service Projects: Each year our Summer Experience program includes a service project. Do you have a great idea for us?
  • Community availability: We invite the community to join us for our programs. If you know of a group (scouts, seniors, students, families, etc) that would enjoy attending our shows or events, please let us know! We do sell tickets for our Musical to help recoup the rental of the theater but always prefer to have a full house and can make seats available for free or low cost!
  • Our Summer Experience Programs host an event each Friday that is open to the community at no cost. We may ask for a donation (of food, pet supplies, gently used books, etc.) to support our service projects but it is not required!