Who Are We?
The Playground Theatre Project is an outreach program of the premiere acting school of Monmouth County New Jersey: Actors Playground School of Theatre. Based in Freehold, NJ, we tour schools, youth groups, churches, and communities throughout New Jersey and beyond.
Teaching so many young people has opened our eyes to the problems and issues surrounding our students today. The theatre company was born from a desire to use our artistic abilities to help them by creatively and safely exploring bullying, suicide, drugs, and many other issues. After ten successful years of performance based community outreach, our artistic staff is well-versed in social issue theatre.
What Makes Us Different?
Playground Theatre Project is made up of the most talented young people NJ has to offer. We believe that by offering a peer-to-peer experience, our message will resonate deeper to the students, youth groups, etc. that we are trying to reach. Our company members range in age from 8 years old to adult, with a majority of the group being in their teens.
Playground Theatre Project does not believe is preaching to people about right and wrong. By bringing in their peers, we give our audiences a chance to explore the consequences of their actions in a comfortable environment. Our company members are knowledgeable in the subjects they are portraying and we are always open for discussions with audience members about the subject matter and problem solving ideas.
To learn more about Acting Classes in New Jersey check out our home base Actors Playground School of Theatre.
Word on the Street:
What People Are Saying About PTP
“The comments [after the show] were overwhelmingly positive. One [student] in particular said, "it was the best play I've ever seen. I cried - I felt every emotion. I think I want to act now!" Great job, and thanks for sharing it with our students.”
-Patt G., Teacher, Freehold Twp HS
”So many students came up to us after [the show] and said that they absolutely loved the performance! Students also came up to us and mentioned that the performance made them realize certain issues they were dealing with but weren't able to put into words, and that they'll be seeking help for these problems. We're so delighted that "Lost Angels" was able to make such a lasting impact on the students who attended.”
- Lanette M., MPH, Adolescent Health/Suicide Prevention - American Academy of Pediatrics, NJ Chapter
“We were there today for your performance and I just wanted to tell you that it was absolutely amazing!!! Our students loved it, myself and other teachers cried. I mean the acting it was like you could feel what they were feeling. I am a paraprofessional and work with 7th and 8th graders but I am also a single mom of a 22 year old and a 13 year old. I really would love to know if you will be putting on other performances in the areas so that I can take my children to see it. I myself have personally dealt with many if not every one of those situations, and it just hit home for me. The Q and A after the performances was amazing, 2 of our students who are very shy even asked questions. Again thank you for a wonderful experience, such a great class trip!!! Please tell all of the actors that they were amazing!!!!”
"Most people view theatre exclusively in terms of entertainment. It’s encouraging to see Playground Theatre Project stepping up to remind us with their programs focused on violence and bullying that theatre can be effectively used as a vehicle for public discussion and change. Their cast is a sharply focused ensemble comprised of local elementary,middle school, high school and college students. Their intensity and commitment to their work is laudable and inspiring."
- Kimberly Rogers, Ocean Twp. PTA President
"Excellent!" - Mary Sutton, Raritan High School SAC
"This presentation was great! It was so relevant to what we are teaching...The students truly enjoyed it!...It was younger audlts teaching other young adults!...This program was great! Job well done!"
- Kimberly Golla, Raritan High School, Health Teacher
"As in life, the dialogue surrounding histories of oppression and repression, both as external forces and internalized expectations, has a long way to go. But it gives me hope to see this work starting with critical thinking in our youth."
- NYTheatreNow.com
"Bang, Bang You're Dead wisely offers no easy answers, but it is a play that everyone, especially teenagers and pre-teen, should have the opportunity to see. These remarkable teenage actors are able to articulate for those who are no longer able to speak for themselves. We would do well to listen."
- NYTheatre.com
"... a powerful performance." -The Asbury Park Press
"I'm very impressed by what this cast of teenagers accomplished during the show and by their bravery in sharing their stories.."
-Lee Kaplan: Writer and Performer of Critically Acclaimed "Bully"
"Everyone thought at some times [the presentation] was funny and [we] learned not to bully."
- 6th grade student, Manchester TWP middle school
"Actors Playground [and Playground Theatre Project] is a magical place where you can be yourself without being judged. Where you can make a fool out of yourself and you won’t be thought about differently. Where weird is the best compliment you can have. Where religion, race, gender doesn’t matter."
- Dixie O., 12 yrs. old, student and PTP memeber
Press for Playground Theatre Project
BroadwayWorld - Lost Angels at The Vogel 2023
New Jersey Stage - Lost Angels at The Vogel 2023
The Star Ledger on Lady Parts at FringeNYC 2014
Review of Bang Bang You're Dead at FringeNYC 2013
The Star Ledger Story on Bang Bang You're Dead at FringeNYC 2013
FringeNYC Group Interview on School Violence and Bullying: creative teams of "Bang Bang You’re Dead" and "Bully"