Step It Up Performing Arts (formerly Summer Stage and formerly, formerly Hudson Valley Summer Stage), Cornwall’s premier musical theatre experience, was founded in 2010 by Karen Ustick Eremin. It was Eremin’s intention to produce full length musical titles that might not ordinarily be performed on local school stages, due to cast size or content. Since its hugely successful inaugural production of the touching and joyful Jason Robert Brown musical “13”, Summer Stage has produced Little Shop of Horrors, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and Hairspray. The 2015 Season featured the first local production of Shrek, The Musical, and the rarely performed Duncan Sheik-composed pop/rock musical Spring Awakening. What is most impressive to audiences in every Summer Stage show is the presence of a full, live orchestra. This addition elevates the production value, already exceedingly high for a two-week camp, to an exceptional level. Summer Stage alumnae are unanimous: few theatre experiences compare with the fun and reward this intense experience provides.
Working with Ronda Barber under Step It Up Productions, Step It Up Performing Arts continues the specific purpose of this organization to provide a venue in which at-risk low- to moderate-income children and youth between the ages of 2 to 17 years of age can participate in a full range of the arts including dance workshops, instruction for dance recitals, and field trips that relate to dance and the arts. We believe that the introduction to, and growing familiarity with, the expression of dance, theatre and music available is essential for the development of young artists — whether they ultimately seek a career in the performing arts or not. Such experiences enrich their experience of the arts, offer them an opportunity to broaden their view of the world that they would not otherwise have, and helps them aim higher in their own performances in dance and musical theatre. Additionally, participation in the arts will help to improve the academic abilities of our participants.
Step It Up Productions, Inc is non-discriminatory. Form 990 is available by request.
We can be contacted at 845-534-3645 or