RevitalArts is one of few entirely student-run non-profit organizations in the country. The staff is comprised of students ranging in age from seventeen to twenty-one. RevitalArts is actively involved in finding engaging ways to involve local youth in the arts.

The organizers of RevitalArts know there is a need for more creative outlets for talented high school and college students. Because RevitalArts is student-run, it can provide relevant artistic opportunities to local youth. These opportunities allow students to highlight such talents as acting, music, writing and filmmaking.

Jared Taylor, 19, along with high school and college colleagues, started the organization in May, 2008 under the name Youth in the Arts. He had already produced three Stratford Youth Film Festivals, one night events featuring short films by local Stratford youth. Taylor also produced two Square One Teen Theatre plays, Joseph Kesselring's Arsenic and Old Lace and Neil Simon's Plaza Suite. Each of Taylor's productions drew high interest from local students. He then imagined bringing these productions together under one umbrella to address the artistic interests of youth.

By creating RevitalArts, Taylor intends to harness the artistic energy of local youth. Students involved in school theatre and other artistic pursuits will now have the opportunity to hone their talents over the summer months as well. Those who find themselves unable to participate in the arts during the school year, will be able to participate during the summer. RevitalArts will offer students summer opportunities in theatre, concerts and film, as well as the ability to be actively involved in the local arts scene.

Every RevitalArts production is created and managed entirely by high school and college students. Opportunities to participate range from building props and sets, to event promotion and everything in between. By allowing youth to become involved in every aspect of production, they explore unique aspects of the arts. "It was important to have students from all over Stratford become involved in the arts in any way they choose. There are simply not enough opportunities for youth to express their creativity. RevitalArts offers this opportunity," said Taylor.

To ensure the growth of youth artistry, RevitalArts is holding at least two theatre productions over the summer. The Stratford Film Festival has been expanded from a one night show of short films to two. A concert will also be held featuring the musical talents of youth. Each production is designed to be a positive, safe event catering to the creative interests of youth and to encourage their participation in the arts.

In January of 2009, the group worked together to file for tax exempt status. They expect to soon be recognized as an official non-profit organization.

Press Releases

May 5, 2009
Summer Program Dates Announced
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April 5, 2009
Film Festival Accepting Submissions
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March 20, 2009
Non-Profit Organization Re-Naming & Contest
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Media Contact: (203) 816-8241 x 704 or Corey [at] RevitalArts.org.

Mission: To provide young adults with positive, engaging and educational experiences in the arts and to revitalize the participation in and appreciation of the arts.

RevitalArts is one of few student-run non-profit organizations in the country.

As of June 1, 2009 the organization consists of 175 members.

Members come from over 25 Connecticut towns and New York City.

80% of members are between the ages of 15 and 25, 20% of members are between the ages of 26 and 60.

The organization filed for recognition of exemption under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code in January, 2009.

The Stratford Film Festival (est. 2005) and Square One Teen Theatre (est. 2007) are the organization's longest running programs.

RevitalArts is based in Stratford, Connecticut and is currently focusing on Fairfield and New Haven Counties. The goal is to expand to other parts of Connecticut over the next two years.