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For more information about this talented young artist visit her website or her myspace. Photographs taken by Dan Stewart Photography.

The Anastasis is a gripping spiritual allegory inspired by the bravery and courage of Cassie Burnall, a high school student who fell victim of the tragic 1999 Columbine shootings in Littleton, Colorado. Cassie’s heroic faith in God, along with countless others throughout history who have refused to deny Christ in the face of death, serve as the inspiration behind this powerfully moving portrayal of unwavering faith.

Musically compelling, intriguing, unpredictable and inescapable - The Anastasis will captivate & challenge audiences to ask the tough questions concerning their belief in God.

Anastasis is a Greek word which translates resurrection.

A monthly membership fee of $80 covers: Acting Lessons, Vocal Training & Accompaniment CD’s, Instruction in Choreography, Dance, and Mime, Costumes & Accessories, Make-up, Librettos & Scripts, Training Notes and Portfolio Materials, Tuition & Transportation for 2 Week Long Fine Arts Day Camps per year, Promotional Fees, Pictures, Production Costs, Food, and Much More!

There are currently 14 Ragamuffins who receive either full or partial scholarships. Costs for their involvement and materials is currently absorbed by our organization, but it is becoming more difficult to do so.

Scholarships can now be underwritten by either businesses, or private individuals who want to ensure that children of all economic backgrounds receive exposure to the Arts.

If you are willing to sponsor a child by underwriting either a full monthly scholarship ($80/month) or a partial monthly scholarship ($40/month), please send your name, address, phone number, email and donation to: Ragamuffin Theatre & Company · PO Box 267 · Charlevoix, MI 49720. Call 231-237-9686 with questions.

It is difficult to describe what we feel having witnessed the birth of new found courage and hope reflected on the faces of teens who might of otherwise given up on themselves and the world around them had it not been for our investment in their lives. Perhaps grateful would be the word. We were honored to have been given the chance to impact so many young lives in so short a time. One young man in particular who had come to House of Hope after two failed suicide attempts, discovered an inkling of his worth not only in God’s eyes, but in ours as we gently yet persistently encouraged him to express his voice through song. Little by little over the course of the week, we saw not only this young man but many others overcoming insecurities, fear, and a lot of other “stuff” as they opened their hearts to God through creative expression in the arts. We poured out our hearts, they poured out theirs. We listened a whole lot, and relentlessly pursued even when it felt like we were up against a brick wall, and in the end we saw walls of isolation and anger fall down.

Next year will be our fifth annual trip and we look forward to embracing the challenge with even more faith, hope, and courage. For we know that our labor is not in vain and that God who sees all will reward each of us for the work that we have done in Him. God Bless House of Hope! For more information about this remarkable ministry for hurting and troubled teens and their families, visit House of Hope’s website.

Future Ragamuffins must be teachable and enthusiastic, which means being ready to learn and grow! Once we’ve got that settled, we move on to The Interview!

Prospective members are granted an interview accompanied by a parent, where they are given the opportunity to show off their singing ability, ask questions, and discuss the commitment involved. Once you’re past that point…then it’s time to become an official Ragamuffin!

Cost of Membership:

• $80 per month
• (or 4 two hour sessions)
• Scholarships are given to a child who has the desire yet lacks the resources!

Current issue:

Past Issues:

September 2008 “Ragamuffins Introduce Emma“