Grant Request Bright Lights Theatre

Hermanowski Family Foundation Initial Request Form


Organization Name: Bright Lights Theatre
Legal Name (if Different):
Also Known As:
Mailing Address: 9940 Acklin Drive
City: Dallas
State: Texas
Postal Code: 75243
Main Phone: 318-584-1313
Main Fax:
Organization Website: https://www.brightlightstheatre.org/
Employer ID Number: 83-4295733
Organization Tax Status: Tax-Exempt 501(c)(3)

Proposal Information


Today’s Date: 03/30/24
Requested Amount: 5000

Project Title: General Operations
Project Description:

Extracurricular activities like theatre not only result in greater school achievement but promote greater self-discipline, resilience, and a reduction in risky behaviors and truancy. However, parents are often unable to find theatre programming that provides a wholesome environment in which kids can grow in their craft while receiving gospel-centered teaching and Christian discipleship.

Bright Lights Theatre was founded in May 2019 to provide accessible, high-quality, Christ-honoring theatre education and training to Dallas-area youth. Over the last four years, the Bright Lights team (collectively possessing 175+ years of theatre experience) has reached hundreds of children and successfully produced five full-scale musical productions, two masterclasses, multiple workshops, and nine (9) weeklong summer camps for 150+ families across the Greater Dallas.

Bright Lights has three main forms of programming:

Productions: These are full-scale musicals or plays that give students the opportunity to participate in a professional theater production environment. Students audition for, rehearse, and perform well-known theatrical works while learning about character development, stage presence, and teamwork. Productions also incorporate gospel themes, allowing students to explore deeper connections between their faith and the stories they tell on stage.

Workshops/Masterclasses: BLT offers specialized sessions focusing on specific theater arts skills like acting, singing, dancing, and production. These sessions are designed to provide rich learning experiences, helping students to develop their talents and confidence in a supportive environment. Masterclasses often bring in experts from various fields to provide students with high-quality instruction and insight into the professional world of theater.

Summer Camps: These week-long camps offer a fun and immersive introduction to theater for younger students. Participants engage in a range of activities, from acting and singing to set and costume design, culminating in a performance at the end of the week. Camps are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all skill levels.

Total Project Budget: $156,721.15

Other Funding
Sources For The Project (Committed & Potential): Nearly 90% of Bright Light’s revenue is derived from earned income. However, the organization has received significant funding from 2COR89 Foundation.

Project Duration: August 2024 – July 2025
Geographical Area Served: Greater Dallas Area (TX)
Age Group To Be Served: Ages 4-18

Contact Information


Contact Prefix (Mr,Mrs etc.): Mrs.
Contact First Name: Lauren
Contact Last Name: Hensarling
Contact Title: Executive Director
Contact Phone: 318-584-1313
Contact Email: laurenh@brightlightstheatre.org