Get teeth that look, feel, and work like teeth with a Renew implant supported anchored smile.
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Tuesday | 9 AM - 5 PM |
Wednesday | 9 AM - 5 PM |
Thursday | 9 AM - 5 PM |
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Facing life with a smile is hard when you're missing some or all of your teeth. Dental implants are an advanced, reliable, tooth replacement solution to help you chew better, feel better, and live healthier - all on your terms.
Our teeth play a major role in our daily lives. We use them to break pieces of food apart so that we can digest meals properly. They allow us to speak and communicate effectively by helping us form sounds and words. From an appearance standpoint, they help define how we smile, express emotion, and interact with people. But our teeth also affect our health. Poor dental hygiene can lead to a range of diseases and other concerns. In essence, our teeth are paramount to our emotional, physical, and social well-being.
It makes sense, then, that life gets harder when some or all of your teeth are missing. Unfortunately, missing teeth is a common issue in the United States. Almost one-third of Americans are missing teeth. In the next 15 years, half a billion Americans will need new pearly whites.
Whether due to genetics, accidents, or neglect, losing your teeth hurts - both emotionally and physically. And, up until now, it was unbelievably expensive to have them replaced.
Fortunately, with Renew's state-of-the-art dental implants Near Tempe, AZ, you can get a new set of teeth easier, faster, and healthier than ever before. The best part? You don't have to spend sports-car levels of money to get the full set of teeth you need.
Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. Unlike some dental clinics that require multiple procedures, Renew's tooth replacement systems require just one surgical appointment. With regular care and professional cleaning from your dentist, your implants can last for the rest of your life.
Dental implants are often the preferred choice for people considering total mouth restoration. Unlike temporary options, dental implants give you a permanent solution for preventing bone loss and renewing your smile. They're created using a small, threaded post that conforms to your jawbone over time. This fusion creates a double-strong anchor that secures your new teeth. Though dentures have a reputation for slipping and sliding in your mouth, dental implants always stay put. If you've been missing out on delicious flavor profiles or the chance to speak confidently, dental implants can be life-changing.
You can think of this titanium screw as a new root for your teeth. It's anchored to your jaw during dental implant surgery.
An abutment is a small connector prosthetic that connects your dental implants and false teeth. You can think of an abutment as the foundation for your new teeth.
The crown of your new tooth is the visible part that you and others see in your mouth. Crowns are made using gorgeous materials and function just like other healthy teeth in your mouth.
Dental implants can all but eliminate the need for repetitive dental work and dealing with missing teeth. Since they act like natural teeth roots, they stimulate your jaw, which prevents it from deteriorating. Plus, dental implants are placed with extreme care by experts, so you don't have to worry about damaging any healthy teeth. It's pretty clear that dental implants are great - but when do you need to get them? Here are a few common signs that you may be a good candidate.
One of the top reasons why people choose dental implants is that they're missing several or all of their teeth. Missing teeth can cause issues with self-consciousness and make it difficult to eat in general. Because dental implants replicate your natural teeth, they can help restore confidence and make eating easier and more enjoyable.
Some people who have dentures, partials, or bridges still feel insecure about their smiles. And that's a shame because nobody should be embarrassed by their smile. If you feel that way, know this: You deserve to feel proud about your smile. Fortunately, dental implants can help. Dental implants can take your confidence to a whole new level. Those days and nights you spent refusing to smile for pictures... Forget about them. Better days are ahead when you have dental implants.
When you have missing teeth, it can be hard to indulge in your favorite foods. It seems like you're constantly on edge due to the pain and inconvenience. When you have dentures, you have to avoid a whole range of foods, like grilled meats and more. With dental implants from Renew you can have your steak and (literally) eat it, too.
One of the biggest downfalls of dental solutions like dentures is that they don't stimulate your jawbone. When your jawbone isn't stimulated correctly, you will eventually suffer from bone loss. This bone loss can create a sunken-in facial appearance. Dental implants fuse with your jawbone, providing the much-needed stimulus that prevents this from happening.
If you or someone you know has had dentures, you know that using them and keeping them clean can be a hassle. After eating, you've got to take them out to be cleaned. Sometimes, you've got to apply denture adhesives to keep them in place. For most people, denture care is messy and monotonous. If you're sick of dealing with sticky adhesives and loose dentures in your mouth, you may want to consider dental implants.
One of the biggest reasons why people choose dental implants is that they look, feel, and work like natural teeth. Dental implants provide several other benefits, including:
If you've lost some or all of your teeth, you're missing out on a slew of functions that make life easier. With dental implants, you benefit from the same functionality as natural teeth.
You can bite into and chew tougher foods that you love, since your bite force is restored.
Dental implants fill in for missing molars, which helps you digest food better.
Dental Implant full mouth restoration options include both fixed removable and non-removable options. In both instances, you can brush just as you would with your natural teeth. With fixed removable solutions, the teeth can come out for extra cleaning and snap right back in. With fixed non-removable options, the teeth stay put and can not be removed, other than by a dental professional for deep cleaning.
Dental implants eliminate one of the biggest concerns that denture-wearers have: their teeth slipping out of their mouth accidentally in public. Unlike dentures, implants are placed securely in your jaw. That means you can eat, talk, smile, and laugh without having to be nervous.
Some dental solutions for missing teeth only last for a few years. When cared for properly, dental implants can last for the rest of your life. Dental implants Near Tempe, AZ from Renew can cost up to 60% less than other dental implant options and come with a Lifetime Guarantee, making them an outstanding value.
When there are gaps in the jawbone due to missing teeth, the bone in those areas can start to weaken from lack of stimulation. If the empty space isn't addressed quickly, the bone can lose up to 25% of its volume and will continue to deteriorate over time. Dental implants stimulate your jaw again, which strengthens your jawbone and prevents it from deteriorating.
When your jawbone starts to deteriorate, the lower third part of your face can begin to sag or look sunken in due to bone loss. Because dental implants integrate with your jawbone and stimulate it daily, you can avoid a sunken facial appearance.
Renew has transformed our members' lives with quality dental implants at prices far below the national average. That's because we believe smiles should be accessible to all. Renew doctors examine the oral health of every new patient who walks through our doors. We then develop a customized dental implant treatment plan to meet their needs. This allows our experts to provide pricing that is upfront, fixed, and affordable. No hidden costs, ever.
We're able to provide outstanding value on your new teeth because we pass our savings along to you. Here's how:
Renew is so committed to bringing back your smile that we created the Renew Patient Financing Program. When you sign up, you can find low monthly payment options with higher approval rates. Bad credit? No problem. Renew works with you to build a plan that's right for you and your budget.
When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are often considered the "gold standard" solution. That's because they feel, function, and look like actual teeth. Because they replicate natural teeth, you can feast on your favorite foods. You can talk to strangers with confidence. Perhaps most importantly, you can flash that beautiful smile again without feeling embarrassed. Unlike Renew's full mouth reconstruction, traditional dentures limit your food choices, have to be replaced, and are generally more difficult to wear.
A full mouth restoration, as the name suggests, involves rebuilding or replacing every tooth in your mouth. This procedure combines elements of dentistry and cosmetic surgery to restore both the function and structure of your teeth.
Your teeth are responsible for more than making your smile unique. They help you eat and communicate, too. When you lose your teeth, life changes. It's just that simple. Factors like poor dental care or mouth injuries can cause partial or complete tooth loss. In such situations, a dentist's goal is to restore your oral health and bring back your smile. At Renew, we do full dental replacements. They're not for everyone, but for those who need them, they're a great solution. But what does full mouth reconstruction entail? Let's dig in and find out.
A full-mouth reconstruction - also called a total or full-mouth restoration begins with extracting any remaining teeth before restoration can begin. If you have many missing teeth or your teeth are severely damaged or worn down, you may want to consider this procedure.
You may also want to think about full mouth restoration if you have specific dental conditions. For instance, amelogenesis, a disorder that causes teeth to develop in unusual shapes, and ectodermal dysplasia, which affects both skin and teeth, may require comprehensive reconstruction as you get older.
Dental implants can fully restore your mouth without needing to rely on dentures or bridges. As we covered above, dental implants consist of a titanium post that is implanted into your jawbone. As the process of osseointegration progresses, the surrounding wound heals, firmly anchoring the post in place. Teeth are attached to the implants, restoring both the appearance and function.
Did you know that one-tenth of people in the United States are missing all of their teeth? One of the most common reasons for missing teeth is tooth decay, a problem that affects many individuals, not just those who have lost teeth. While some of us may have had more dental fillings than others, we all continually battle against tooth decay.
Bacteria naturally inhabit our mouths, and when they feast on the sugars and starches from our food, they produce an acid that can harm our teeth. This acid gradually erodes the protective layer known as enamel. Once the enamel is compromised, the inner structures of our teeth can begin to decay. Keep an eye out for these signs of tooth decay:
When left untreated, tooth decay can rot your teeth and cause them to fall out. Along with tooth decay, be aware of these additional risk factors that cause your teeth to fall out.
Gum disease and tooth loss often go hand-in-hand. Gum disease is a bacterial infection of the gums that can result in serious health problems. If the infection progresses, it can damage the bone that supports your teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss. You might notice swelling or redness in your gums, but often, the condition isn't painful, which means you might have it without even realizing it. If left untreated, gum disease can not only cause your teeth to fall out but also allow the infection to spread to other areas of your body.
A big cause of gum disease is from plaque accumulating on your teeth. Other factors that increase the likelihood of gum disease include:
Losing your teeth due to an injury is a fairly common occurrence, especially for MMA fighters and boxers. But you don't have to be a combat sports athlete to lose your teeth. It can happen due to an injury, car accidents, accidents at work, or just getting hit in the face with a ball really hard, it doesn't take that much force to damage teeth and ruin someone's smile.
Missing teeth impact your oral health, but they also take a toll on your emotional and mental well-being. Ask yourself these questions:
Renew's full mouth restoration can be the solution you've been searching for.
Have you ever wondered what's involved in a dental implant procedure and how long it takes? In the past, dental implant procedures were often considered long and painful. Today, dental implant surgeries are streamlined and tailored to your unique dental needs. At Renew, you can have new dental implants with a single surgery.
No, we're not pulling your leg. All it takes is one surgical appointment to get dental implants that feel, look, and function like natural teeth. By fixing your teeth on the same day as your surgery, treatment and recovery times are reduced. When your implant procedure is finished and you're fully healed, the sparkling-white teeth of your dreams become a reality. That crispy, juicy apple that's been calling your name? Go ahead and dig in. It's time to savor the flavor of life.
To help you make a more informed decision about dental implants Near Tempe, AZ, let's explore more about the treatment process.
Having your teeth replaced involves an initial consultation with our experienced Dental Team and Education Consultant. You'll receive a free 3-D CAT Scan, which will allow our doctors to see your mouth in three dimensions. We develop your custom treatment plan using this advanced technology. During your free consultation, our dental implant experts will meet with you to talk about your needs. We'll also chat about any concerns you have. Once we determine you're a great candidate for Renew, we can schedule your single-day surgery.
The day you've been waiting for is finally here. Renew's dental implant procedure should only take a few hours. Once we're ready, our doctors use advanced surgical guides and scans to meticulously place your implants. Once your implants are placed, we attach new teeth. This allows you to speak, eat, and smile with confidence as you heal. And, since this is a medical procedure, IV sedation is used to keep you as comfortable as possible.
Once your procedure is over, it's time to heal. We'll provide you with helpful information on how to manage pain, should you experience any soreness. Healing varies from person to person, but you should expect some mild discomfort and swelling.
Four months after surgery, you receive a set of permanent, strong teeth that are attached and fixed for the non-removable option, or teeth that snap securely in place for the removable tooth replacement option.
You want your teeth to stay fresh and clean as time goes by. That's why the last stage of your dental implant procedure is maintenance. By practicing good oral hygiene and attending regular dental check-ups, the smile of your dreams can last a lifetime.
Dental implants are one of the most popular restoration options for people who have lost several teeth or have had to have many teeth extracted. They've got an incredible long-term success rate, but to keep them looking and feeling like your natural teeth, you've got to care for them like your natural teeth. Here are a few tips on how to do just that.
Renew was founded with one goal in mind: To make beautiful, strong teeth accessible to all. So, along with a team of scientists and doctors, Founder Dr. Don Miloni developed a new way to do teeth. Over 100 million dollars have been invested in crafting strong, hardy, healthy teeth. To date, we are backed by over 80 patents. We've achieved a shorter surgery time, which means a faster recovery. And we have changed countless of people's mouths (and lives). All for a fraction of traditional costs. Because everyone deserves to smile. It's the reason we get up every single day.
At this point, we know you may have questions. It would be our pleasure to help answer them. If there's one thing you can count on, it's that our team is here for you when you need us most. From our customer service team to our experienced staff of doctors and expert technicians, you can expect comprehensive care along every step of your dental implant journey. Contact Renew today. After your free consultation, you can look forward to a better tomorrow.
BUSINESSLauren De YoungSalem Statesman JournalDutch Bros, ...
BUSINESS
Salem Statesman Journal
Dutch Bros, the ubiquitous coffee chain founded in Grants Pass in 1992, is moving its headquarters from Oregon to Arizona.
Company officials announced Dutch Bros was expanding its footprint in the Phoenix area by relocating its headquarters to Tempe.
The coffee chain known for its brightly colored drinks and friendly drive-thru staff has been eyeing Arizona since 2024.
"Over the past several months, we have seen the functional and cultural advantages of having more of our field support roles working together in one place," Erin Gray, the senior director of corporate communications for Dutch Bros, said in a statement. "Bringing more people together will allow us to better serve our customers and crews across the country."
The roasting facility and other positions will remain in Grants Pass, the company's hometown, Gray said. Dutch Bros will also continue its philanthropic work in southern Oregon, she added.The move to Tempe isn't surprising.
In 2024, Dutch Bros moved about 40% of its support services staff to the Phoenix area, despite the headquarters remaining in Grants Pass.
The company also leased an office space at Liberty Center on Rio Salado Parkway, one of the largest office rentals in 2024, according to data compiled by Kidder Mathews, an independent commercial real estate firm.
“As we look toward our long-term objective of 4,000-plus shops, strengthening our existing operations in Arizona positions us to compete for the talent we need to accomplish this ambitious goal,” Dutch Bros President and CEO Christine Barone said in January 2024.
Executives estimated the 2024 move to cost between $24 million and $31 million, with most of the expense being employee-related costs, like relocation, retention and transition costs, termination benefits and duplicate transition wages and benefits.
The company did not say what effect the headquarters move would have on current or future employment.
Dutch Bros celebrated its 1,000th location in Orlando, Florida, in February.
For questions, comments and news tips, email reporter Whitney Woodworth at wmwoodworth@statesmanjournal.com, call 503-910-6616 or follow on X at @wmwoodworth
PHOENIX – A section of Mill Avenue in downtown Tempe is closing for eight weeks to accelerate the completion of a major improvement project.Southbound Mill will be off-limits to vehicles from the south side of Fifth Street to the north side of University Drive starting next week, the city announced....
PHOENIX – A section of Mill Avenue in downtown Tempe is closing for eight weeks to accelerate the completion of a major improvement project.
Southbound Mill will be off-limits to vehicles from the south side of Fifth Street to the north side of University Drive starting next week, the city announced.
Additional area road restrictions will also be in effect as part of the Downtown Tempe Mill Avenue Refresh.
Business will be accessible by foot, transit, bike, scooter or wheelchair, but there will be some detours.
The closure is scheduled to run from Monday until Aug. 8, ending before Arizona State University’s fall semester begins. It will help crews knock as much as three months off the construction schedule, the city said.
Additional crew members are being brought in for day and night shifts in an effort to complete as much of the project as possible before fall tourism and event season.
The Downtown Tempe Mill Avenue Refresh is the first major facelift for the area in 40 years.
The project includes electrical lines, a new irrigation system, larger brick artistic sidewalks, new paving and over 125 new trees.
Visitors may want to use the new Tempe Trip app to find the best parking spots and routes near downtown Mill Avenue during the construction.
All parking garages will remain open, but westside on-street parking on Mill Avenue from south of Fifth Street to Seventh Street will be affected.
The Tempe Streetcar will mostly operate as usual, but there could be occasional closures for construction.
Get the latest KTAR News 92.3 FM traffic alerts sent straight to your phone by texting “TRAFFIC” to 620620.
This year is the perfect time to get reacquainted with what’s new in Tempe for the ultimate summer getaway. From indoor pickleball and candle-pouring to night golf and elevated speakeasies, it’s easy to create an incredible weekend itinerary, from morning to night. To sweeten the summer season, local hotels are offering must-grab staycation deals. Here are 10 can’t-miss activities and new attractions in Tempe this summer:LEARN MORE: ...
This year is the perfect time to get reacquainted with what’s new in Tempe for the ultimate summer getaway. From indoor pickleball and candle-pouring to night golf and elevated speakeasies, it’s easy to create an incredible weekend itinerary, from morning to night. To sweeten the summer season, local hotels are offering must-grab staycation deals. Here are 10 can’t-miss activities and new attractions in Tempe this summer:
LEARN MORE: Rediscover Tempe with your best summer staycation yet
Pickleball crawl: Brand new, Electric Pickle has nine high-tech courts, Full Swing Golf Simulators, bocce ball, ping pong and an indoor/outdoor restaurant (for pre- and post-game sustenance). For more indoor dinks, The Picklr houses eight indoor courts (with two championship-style courts) to rev up endorphins and burn off boredom.
Bubble Planet play: Arizona Mills’ latest immersive experience isn’t mere child’s play. While children of all ages do love the Bubble Bath Pit — resembling a bubble bath — and Bubble Ocean — featuring a sea of balloons — adults appreciate the Virtual Reality Room and ample opportunities for Instagrammable, TikTok-worthy content grabs throughout Bubble Planet’s 10 unique themed activations.
Botanical Garden after dark: Once the sun goes down, Arizona’s Desert Botanical Garden lights up with Flashlight Nights: Desert After Dark. Every Saturday from June through mid-September, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., guests use flashlights to explore the Garden’s trails under the stars. A favorite addition — scorpion hunts using glowing black lights
ASU Gammage showstoppers: This summer, ASU Gammage is bringing Broadway shows right to your backyard with “Life of Pi,” which runs June 17–22, 2025, and “Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” which takes the stage July 22–Aug. 3, 2025.
Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills happenings: After the sun sets, Grass Clippings at Rolling Hills comes alive as Arizona’s first golf course for fully lit night golf. This par-54, all-par-3 layout — illuminated by 78 LED lights — is perfect for a game of golf under the stars (until midnight on weekends).
Bouldering Project Tempe takeover: An entire family can take over Bouldering Project’s 19,000-square-foot, rope-free, air-conditioned climbing wall. The venue hosts Mini Mountaineers for children 18 months to 12 years, allowing the littles to run wild. Adults can enjoy yoga and fitness classes, a cozy coffee kiosk and a dog-friendly courtyard with games and hammocks.
Culdesac and craft: The nation’s first built-from-scratch car-free community, Culdesac Tempe has been trending as a place to visit for connectivity and creativity. In addition to dining and retail, this unique destination houses Brite Candle Co., where visitors can try their hand at candle making or get their hands dirty at Pip Crafts + Clay for pottery classes and handbuilding workshops. During evenings, Culdesac debuts Sip & Stroll, with refreshing beverages, music and indoor shopping in the community plaza and beer garden.
Mountain America Community Iceplex cooldown: Nestled within ASU’s Mullett Arena, public ice-skating awaits with themed sessions like Y2K Pop Music Night, ’80s Music Night and additional select-hour day skating.
Speakeasy evenings: What better way to end a Tempe summer day than with a stop at one of Mill Avenue’s elevated speakeasies? Inside Devil’s Hideaway, Idle Hands is an enchanting cocktail sanctuary serving French‑style cocktails and absinthe blends. A few blocks away, Drop Dead Gorgeous, nestled within Filthy Animal, is a ’70s-inspired disco bar that invites late-night dancing and glam cocktails.
Staycation destinations: After a day of bubble fun, candle pouring, ice-skating and other activities, followed by a speakeasy nightcap, visitors can complete their weekend itinerary with a stay at one of Tempe’s conveniently located hotels. Staycations can be booked through these hotel discount packages: SummerinTempe.com.
To learn more about Tempe’s summer hotspots, hotels, dining offers and more, visit SummerinTempe.com.
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.CALLING ALL LEGENDARY DADS!Gather your family crew, suit up, and get ready for the 2nd Annual DAD GAMES Competition at Dave & Buster’s TempeIt’s time for dads and their families to go head-to-head in the ultimate arcade showdown. Think you’ve got what it takes to lead your team to victory? Now’s your chance to prove it!Team Spirit Counts!...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
CALLING ALL LEGENDARY DADS!Gather your family crew, suit up, and get ready for the 2nd Annual DAD GAMES Competition at Dave & Buster’s Tempe
It’s time for dads and their families to go head-to-head in the ultimate arcade showdown. Think you’ve got what it takes to lead your team to victory? Now’s your chance to prove it!
Team Spirit Counts!We highly encourage families to go all out with matching shirts, team colors, face paint, or themed costumes, the more creative, the better! We’ll be awarding a special Most Spirited Family Prize, so don’t hold back. Bring the energy, bring the fun, and show us what you’ve got!
Grand Prize:
Your Standard DAD GAMES Ticket Includes:
DAD BONUS:The first 100 families that purchase tickets will score an exclusive DAD GAMES Baseball Hat for their #1 Dad!
Game Day Bytes Banquet Menu:Flatbread Cheese Pizza, Mini All-Beef Pretzel Dogs, Boneless Wings, Garlic Butter Pretzel Sticks with Marinara, French Fries & Unlimited Soft Drinks.
Spots are limited and the competition is heating up!
Secure your tickets today and bring your A-game, costumes, cheers, and all!
Guest & Ticket Policy:All children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Guests ages 3 and older are required to have a ticket for entry. Children under 3 may enter without a ticket but will not receive a game card.
All ticket sales are final, tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. Processing fees apply at checkout. Additional restrictions may apply.
*The dad and his family with the highest average score will score free gameplay for a year! Up to four (4) prizes will be awarded to the winning team. Restrictions apply.
Feeling the competition heat up? If more than 50 guests join in, we’ll turn up the intensity and shift to an All-Dads Showdown to crown the ultimate champ
*Power Cards with Unlimited Video Game Play are good for non-redemption games ONLY. Your unlimited video game play will begin at the first swipe of the power card and will be available until the location closes on the day of your event. Excludes ticketed, specialty & crane games which can be accessed with the chips on the game card.
Headquartered at a former elementary school in Tempe, just blocks from the campus of Arizona State University, Childsplay is a venerable, nearly 50-year-old youth theatre company that offers educational programs there and has staged seasons of mainstage performances for young people and families at a variety of local venues, including in residence at the Herberger Theater Center in downtown Phoenix, as well as at Phoenix College and Tempe Center for ...
Headquartered at a former elementary school in Tempe, just blocks from the campus of Arizona State University, Childsplay is a venerable, nearly 50-year-old youth theatre company that offers educational programs there and has staged seasons of mainstage performances for young people and families at a variety of local venues, including in residence at the Herberger Theater Center in downtown Phoenix, as well as at Phoenix College and Tempe Center for the Arts. We caught up recently with managing director Steve Martin (no, not that Steve Martin, obviously) over email.
Who founded Childsplay, when, and why?
Childsplay was founded in 1977 by David Saar and a group of fellow students following a graduate school project at Arizona State University. The project took short, less-than-one-hour plays into schools throughout the Valley of the Sun. Eventually Childsplay settled into a home in Tempe, and continues today as an ensemble-based organization that values all voices in the creation of its arts and education programs.
Tell us a little more about yourself and your background.
I graduated from the University of Toledo during a boom period where many of my fellow students went on to professional and academic theatre careers. Following my graduation, I took a short-term gig in Chicago where I had the privilege of working with many folks who defined the Chicago theatre movement. In 1985, I moved to Atlanta with my husband and went to work for the Alliance Theatre, moving from telemarketing to development and eventually to assistant managing director. Working at the Alliance and other LORT theatres at the time had a huge educational and professional impact. Following a short stint at Virginia Stage Company in Norfolk, I landed at Childsplay. 24 years later, I am proud of how the company has grown to reach over 100,000 people each year while staying true to its mission to encourage imagination and wonder in the young people we serve.
What sets your theatre apart from others in your region?
Childsplay is focused on serving young people. Along with producing plays in residence at the Herberger Theater Center, we also tour productions to schools, libraries, and community centers throughout Arizona. We also mount a national tour that will run 8 to 20 weeks per year, giving performances throughout the country. Childsplay also has a robust arts education program that includes a drama academy for children ages 3 to 18; professional development programs for teachers integrating drama strategies into classroom instruction; and teaching artist residencies in dozens of schools throughout the school year. Childsplay’s robust arts education and integration programs have resulted in scientific research on their effectiveness being published in 14 U.S. education journals.
Tell us about your favorite theatre institution other than your own, and why you admire it.
Honolulu Theatre for Youth is so inspiring in their commitment to the unique cultures of the Islands and their dedication to the ensemble method. They walk the walk, celebrating and honoring their community through their creative process.
How do you pick the plays you put on your stage?
Childsplay works to have a balance of plays that appeal to a wide range of age groups while making sure we’re putting our unique stamp on each production. Adaptations of children’s literature, ensemble devised work, and new approaches to the existing canon lead our approach.
What’s your annual budget, and how many artists do you employ each season?
Budget: $4 million. Artists: 55 theatre artists, 100 teaching artists.
How is your theatre rising to meet the challenges of the moment, including but not limited to the continuing aftermath of Covid lockdowns, widespread demands for a fairer industry, and the current funding climate?
While school audiences have returned to the theatre in near record numbers, public audiences have become fickler, choosing “event”-type programming while abandoning challenging work. Couple that with our commitment to raising wages and work standards, our financial position continues to be a bit precarious. I keep reminding our ensemble and funders that an increase in the number of $15 student tickets sold will never provide the resources necessary to sustain our mission. And now with DOGE attacking social safety nets, we find our funding community focusing on “essential services” and eliminating arts funding as “want to have” as opposed to “need to have.” This hearkens back to the Great Recession, when many arts organizations just closed shop. To be honest, the stress level on our organization is often debilitating and exhausting.
What show are you working on now? Anything else in your season that you’re especially looking forward to?
Childsplay is currently in the final design stage for our first production in September, the world premiere of JSonic and The Unknown by Idris Goodwin. The play is a part of the National BIPOC Superheroes project. We’re also excited about a new musical adaptation of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane that will close out our 2025-26 season next April. Unfortunately, JSonic was the production that had its NEA grant offer withdrawn; in addition, Edward Tulane was our recently submitted NEA application this past April.
Strangest or funniest thing you’ve ever seen (or put) on a stage?
I was sitting in the house for a tech rehearsal for The Lonesome West by Martin McDonagh at Virginia Stage. Things spiraled out of control when one actor decided to smash a vase against his forehead, causing a large gash. The stage manager crashed through a piece of scenery in a rush to provide aid, and the assistant stage manager fell off the platform trying to help the stage manager. Needless to say, we had three workers’ comp claims and rehearsal was delayed several hours as we took the three of them to the emergency room!
What are you doing when you’re not doing theatre?
I spend most of my off time with friends watching sports, drinking fun new beers, and taking care of my four animals—two cats and two dogs. I also recently hiked down to Havasupai Falls (exhausting, to say the least, but exhilarating to experience) and multi-day rafting trips in the Moab, Utah, Green/Yampa River area.
What does theatre—not just your theatre, but the American or world theatre—look like in, say, 20 years?
This is a challenging question as technology continues to make huge advancements in providing entertainment options. I think virtual reality will begin to play a bigger role, with folks paying licensing fees to stream theatre productions through their VR headsets. As we perform for mostly family and students, I believe more and more education specialists will embrace the arts as a means to an end in social, emotional, and academic development with our youth.
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