Letter from Michael Ochoa, AEA actor and ensemble member in Once Upon A Mattress at the Arvada Center

Have you ever caught a shimmer in a child’s eye during their first experience with the magic of theatre? Its the glint of wonder that says, "This is where I belong!" I've lived that moment, and I've also seen it from the stage at the Arvada Center.

My journey with this extraordinary place began when I was just a wide-eyed kid in the audience, and it's where I discovered a deep, unwavering love for the performing arts. From the Theatre for Young Audiences productions that shaped my early education to the summer programs that honed my craft, the Arvada Center has been my second home and training ground.

18 years ago I played Sir Harry in the Summer Camp production of Once Upon A Mattress. Now, as a cast member in this winter's production, I've come full circle!  Each performance is a love letter to an institution that has given me so much. When I step on stage, I'm not just telling a story; I'm passing on the legacy of inspiration that was once gifted to me.

Every laugh shared, every tear shed, and every standing ovation is a testament to the boundless love that fuels this place. And now, I'm reaching out to you to help keep this magic alive.

Thanks to other theatre lovers Donna and Don Ostwald, Nancy Gary, the Fraser Family, Alan Hines and Deanna Chiddix, and Craig and Lois Kocian, your gift today will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling your impact up to $27,000. 

I am forever grateful for the role the Arvada Center has played in my life, and I'm excited for the countless stories yet to be told on our stages. With your help, we can guarantee that my creative home continues to be a place where passion thrives, and where everyone can find a sense of belonging.

With heartfelt thanks, 

Michael Ochoa, 

AEA Cast Member of Once Upon A Mattress

Arvada Center for the Arts and Humanities