Supporter Spotlight: PNC Grow Up Great®

By Susie Robinson

For the past ten seasons, through PNC Grow Up Great®, PNC Financial Services Group has generously sponsored First Stage’s intimate and interactive First Steps Series. First Steps serves as a young person’s introduction to the theater and teaches the role and etiquette of an audience member.

First Stage's 2018/2019 production of THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR SHOW
Paul Ruffolo Photography

Through these performances, First Stage encourages young people to explore the performing arts, creativity, and innovation. As many First Steps productions are based on 

children’s literature, First Stage has also brought many beloved books to life, helping young students visualize and better understand key literacy and language comprehension skills while developing a greater interest in reading. These productions have also explored relevant topics including anti-bullying, friendship, family relationships, and teamwork. All productions conclude with a ten-minute post-show talkback that allows students to ask questions about the production and learn more about the theater process. Through our pre/post-show workshop and literacy residencies, young people have the opportunity to further explore the academic and social/emotional learning presented in the First Steps productions through arts-integrated lessons and theater activities.

“PNC values our partnership with First Stage for their inspiring work every day with the children of our community. PNC’s Grow Up Great program, focusing on early childhood education, is a perfect match for the important work being done around First Steps and we couldn’t be more proud to partner directly on this project.” - Chris Goller, President, Wisconsin & Executive Vice President, PNC Financial Services Group

Since its founding in 2004, PNC Grow Up Great® has been helping children from birth through age five develop a passion for learning that lasts a lifetime. 2019 marks their 15-year anniversary. As one of their partners, First Stage is thrilled to be able to help celebrate their milestone and to continue to raise awareness of the importance of high quality early childhood education. We are grateful to PNC Financial Services Group and their commitment to the education and development of our community’s young people.

First Stage's 2018/2019 production of THE VERY HUNGRY CATERPILLAR SHOW
Paul Ruffolo Photography