As we reflect on this past summer, we are full of gratitude for the support and energy that make every moment at Journey Theater possible. Our recent production of Singin’ in the Rain delighted 1,805 audience members, with glowing reviews. Looking ahead, fall classes are coming soon, and the renovation plans for Manor Church are being finalized. This space will be an exciting new home for youth to explore theater, build confidence, and grow in character.
Fall is just around the corner, and we’re excited to announce four different time slots for youth classes this season—Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday afternoon, and Wednesday evening. Registration is open with foundations and other exciting classes filling up fast. All the info for classes and registration can be found online.
We’re especially thankful to offer Wednesdays at our shared space at Manor Church. Renovations are expected to begin sometime this fall, with exact dates to be determined once design plans are finalized. We look forward to sharing updates on the building process once the preliminary stages are complete.
This month, we’re excited to introduce you to Pastor Scott Waite of Manor Church in Battle Ground, WA. Pastor Scott has a deep heart for building
community in ways that further the Kingdom. His church has been welcoming and supportive throughout the beginning stages of the shared space agreement and the upcoming renovations. In our conversation, Pastor Scott shares his perspective on this new chapter, the joy of opening his doors to the arts, and the shared vision that makes this partnership so meaningful.
How did the idea for Journey Theater to share space at Manor Church first come about?
I received a letter from Stephen Pick, which he sent to multiple churches, asking about possible space to rent and the possibility of a long term permanent home for Journey. We had gone through some difficult time since the pandemic and were open to a new direction for the church and had been praying about how we could better use our building for Kingdom purposes. I responded to the letter and the process began.
Looking back on the early conversations about sharing space, what aspects made you feel this was the right move for both the church and Journey Theater?
Looking back, two things really stand out to me. First, was the fact that Journey was looking for a ministry partner and not just to rent space. As I learned about the ministry that Journey has with kids and families, it became very exciting to consider ways that we can serve the Journey community beyond just providing a building. For example, it has been so fun for us to host a breakfast for the cast and crew of both Finding Nemo Jr. and Tom Sawyer.
Second is the fact that the building is being used more during the week. I think it is so much better to see the building being used beyond weekend services. We really wanted to see the building being used more than a few days a week and specifically in ministering to kids and families. Journey really makes that happen.
What do you hope Journey Theater will bring to the building’s life and atmosphere in the years ahead?
Joy! In John 15:11, Jesus says, “These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.” He wants us to be full of joy and that is one of the results of our relationship with Him and each other. It is my hope that we see many people full of joy because of the ministry of Journey and Manor. I look forward to a place where things are happening all the time. A gathering place that is so much more than Church services and Theater performances.
On a lighter note—what part of the renovation or shared space are you personally most excited to see finished?
I’m really excited about the whole project. It has been so interesting to learn about theater design. It is going to be such a great space for both Journey and for Manor. As great as the Sanctuary/Theater space is going to be, I am most excited about the updates to the lobby. I love the vision of a welcoming space that provides space to meet, hang out and to sit and have conversation.
Auditions are just around the corner for our upcoming productions of Footloose and Narnia! Show dates and venues will be announced soon, so stay tuned. We can’t wait to see the creativity and talent our students bring to the stage this season.
As we look ahead to a new season, we are thankful for the community that makes Journey Theater thrive—students, families, audiences, and partners alike. With renovations on the horizon and our shared space at Manor Church opening the door to exciting new opportunities, this fall is the perfect time to jump in. Whether you join us in the classroom, on stage, or in the audience, we can’t wait to inspire creativity and grow the community that brings our mission to life. You can read more about the vision behind our renovations at Manor Church on our website.