Encore Theatrical Arts Project

The mission of Encore Theatrical Arts Project is to be the premier youth performing arts company in the Washington, DC metropolitan area by adhering to standards of excellence in performance, choreography, musical direction, lighting, costume, and set design.

Founded in 1996 by Raynor van der Merwe and Mario Petrides, ETAP is a 501(c)(3) non profit organization serving the artistic and cultural needs of Northern Virginia. By inspiring excellence in its performers and crews, ETAP has raised the bar for local theater in this vibrant community outside the Nation’s Capital.

In the past ten years, ETAP has staged two original shows each season, and collaborated with other non profit organizations to raise funds for many good causes. Reaching beyond its borders, the company has traveled to China three times since 2002, performing in dozens of venues throughout the country.

Membership in ETAP is by audition and is open to anyone in the community with a love for the performing arts, a willingness to work hard and adhere to the high artistic standards set out in the mission statement, a positive attitude, a great sense of humor and the desire to bring joy to the audience.

Many of ETAP's alumni have embraced the professional world of dance and theater and can be seen on stage in the Rockettes, in the national tour of The Producers, on cruise ships, theme parks, in music videos and in summer stock. Watch for future plans which include the establishment of a professional jazz dance company based in Northern Virginia.