City Stage Co.'s mission is to provide opportunities for urban children and families to participate in the performing arts so they can make discoveries about themselves and the world. Since 1974 the Company has created hands-on exhibits, participatory touring productions for under-served audiences throughout Eastern Massachusetts in libraries, schools, and community centers. For 35 years, City Stage Company has brought free intensive, multi-session theater education programs to the Boston Public Schools, currently working with three schools to serve over 500 students, 84% of whom are considered low-income. In 2000, City Stage initiated a new after school program for elementary and middle school students that has since expanded to provide programming for teens and emerging adult artists.