Celebrating Orlando Family Stage - Our Good Neighbor Making Lasting Impact

At RISE Together, we proudly honored Orlando Family Stage with our 2025 Good Neighbor Award—an award that celebrates those who model kindness, inclusivity, and community leadership.

For nearly a century, Orlando Family Stage (OFS) has stood as Florida’s only professional Theatre for Young Audiences and one of the region’s most enduring cultural institutions. Their leadership has never been about spotlighting themselves - it has always been about lifting children, families, and the broader community.

Every year, more than 50,000 children and families experience theatre at OFS through programs designed to inspire courage, empathy, and connection. Whether a child is stepping into a theatre for the first time or a teacher is bringing story drama techniques back into the classroom, the ripple effect is unmistakable: braver young people, stronger families, and more compassionate communities.

OFS’s influence extends far beyond the stage. During moments of uncertainty, they have led boldly, choosing to stand with staff, families, and schools so that the arts remain accessible. Their vision makes Orlando Family Stage not just a theatre, but a place where future leaders are nurtured and empowered.

The hallmark of a true neighbor is showing up, again and again, in ways that strengthen the whole community. Orlando Family Stage demonstrates this commitment daily by listening deeply, building bridges, and ensuring every child feels seen. Their work has sparked children to write plays about real-world issues, inspired parents who witness their children’s growth through performance, and connected community partners who see the arts as a pathway to resilience.

At RISE, we celebrate Orlando Family Stage as a cultural leader, community builder, and unwavering neighbor. Their work reminds us that leadership is not about a single person or moment - it is about creating spaces where courage, compassion, and connection thrive for generations to come. Hear more about Orlando Family Stage from Chris Brown, executive director, in the video below.