[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 192 (Tuesday, December 3, 2019)]
[House]
[Page H9210]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                              {time}  1915
                 HONORING THE VANGUARD THEATER COMPANY

  (Mr. PAYNE asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. PAYNE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor a small group of 
artists with big dreams, the Vanguard Theater Company.
  The company began in Maplewood, New Jersey, 4 years ago with one 
goal: It wanted to increase diversity in theater acting, directing, and 
training. The company is based on a dream of diversity, reciprocity, 
education, awareness, and mentorship, with a strong emphasis on 
mentorship.
  Vanguard has run several programs and camps to connect young artists 
with skilled performers. Recently, it received a grant from the New 
Jersey State Council on the Arts. The grant will fund acting lessons 
for 40 students. Then these new actors will put on shows for hospital 
patients, senior citizens, and children across the area.
  I am proud of the Vanguard for encouraging youth of color to pursue 
their dreams in theater, and I wish them all the best.

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