Hip, Hip Hooray! It's Time for TEACHaret!

The Springer Opera Theatre annual Academy fundraiser is back and promises to be bigger, bolder and better than ever! Celebrating its tenth anniversary, TEACHaret 2025 is the variety-show style fundraiser that brings together the talents of Springer Theatre Academy's instructors to raise life-changing scholarship funding for students, empowering the next generation to build confidence, creativity, and community through the performing arts. This year's performance will take place on Thursday, July 24, at 7:00 pm. While admission is free to the public, donations are encouraged (and tax deductible!). 

TEACHaret celebrates the legacy of Ron Anderson, who founded the Springer Theatre Academy in 1996. What began as a program initially serving just 200 students has blossomed into a thriving artistic institution, with more than 5,000 students aged 5-18 discovering their voices and developing their intellect over the last decade. Just this summer alone, 600 students are participating in learning "life skills through stage skills."  

"TEACHaret is more than just a fundraiser; it's a celebration of what the arts can do for young people," said DB Woolbright, Academy Education Director. "Every dollar raised through the Wise Investment Fund helps us open our doors wider, giving students from all walks of life a chance to grow resilience, and creativity. We teach life skills through stage skills, and that's something every child deserves, no matter their background."

From sing-along musical numbers and laugh-out-loud sketches to dazzling dance pieces and surprise performances, TEACHaret puts the "fun" in fundraiser. The evening's cast is made up entirely of Academy instructors, who, in addition to their full teaching schedules, generously donate their time and talent to create an unforgettable night of theatre, comedy, music, and passionate storytelling. During intervals in the entertainment, letters from former scholarship recipients are read aloud on stage, providing insight into the Academy's impact. Previous letters have highlighted how learning "life skills through stage skills" have positively influenced confidence, improved public speaking skills and created life-long friendships. 

Proceeds support the Wise Investment Fund, a scholarship program that allows underserved youth to participate in the Academy's life-changing arts education. This fund has enabled many students to discover their potential and pursue their dreams. While many graduates pursue professional theatre, others go on to thrive in fields such as science, engineering, medicine, business, and education, carrying with them the confidence, creativity, and teamwork skills they honed on stage.

"When you come to TEACHaret, you're not just enjoying an incredible night of music, comedy and dance, you're also helping us change lives," Woolbright said. "Your support makes it possible for us to keep arts education accessible for every bright, young mind."

Over the past decade, TEACHaret has raised nearly $80,000 in scholarships, opening doors for approximately 500 students. Last summer alone, 15% of Academy students received scholarship assistance thanks to the generosity of donors who believe every child deserves a stage to stand on and a story to tell. The Academy hopes to raise at least $10,000 this year to continue nurturing the next generation of artists, leaders, and changemakers.

The 10th Annual TEACHaret is on Thursday, July 24, at 7:00 pm inside Emily Woodruff  Hall (main stage) at the Springer Opera House. Admission is free; however, a suggested donation of $15 is requested at the door. We encourage you to donate generously to support our cause.