Encore Productions history

Founded in 1996 by Raynor van der Merwe and Mario Petrides, ETAP is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization serving the artistic and cultural needs of Fairfax County and Northern Virginia.

Reaching out to over 100,000 audience members including far beyond its borders, the company has traveled to China, Spain, and Greece since 2002, sharing its passion for community and dance on the global stage.

In 2006, ETAP was recognized by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors for representing Fairfax County and the United States abroad at Beijing Cultural Festival.

ETAP was honored to perform at the International Children’s Festival at Wolf Trap in September of 2007.

After launching our inaugural production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita in February 2009, the Encore has produced over 75 productions, including many Gold Age classics, dazzling contemporary musicals, and new works.

The Encore is home to a successful Summer Theatre Program that began in 2010, educating children ages 5-18 each summer.

June 2014 brings the spring show with 6 more original high quality performances.

During the 2015-16 season, over 14,000 young people and their families enjoyed Encore’s performances, over 200 participated as cast or crew members, and nearly 1,500 were involved in education programs including classes, camps, and workshops.

Encore is excited to celebrate our 50th anniversary during the 2017-18 season!

In 2018, the Maas Conservatory at The Encore was established through generous funding from the Benard L. Maas Foundation.

After a careful vetting process, the Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Washington has selected Encore Stage & Studio to be part of the Class of 2019-20.