What started as a one-time production has blossomed into a thriving youth community theater. Since Grease, we’ve staged five additional shows, each one building our reputation for high-quality performances, talented young actors, and a welcoming, supportive community. Our program is completely volunteer-run and open to students in grades K–12, with rehearsals and productions held at Taft Grade School in Lockport, IL.
At Bragi’s Players, we believe theater is more than just performing—it’s a way for children to build confidence, creativity, teamwork, and lifelong memories. With each production, we celebrate imagination, community, and the joy of learning through play.
Bragi’s Players began in 2017 with a serendipitous beginning. While fundraising for school activities, we received a donation that was actually meant for Taft High School—though we are Taft Grade School. Though we couldn’t keep the money we were instead offered the rights to perform Grease. With the support of families, students, and community members, the production came to life and was a huge success. From that moment, Bragi’s Players was born!
Bragi’s Players is named after Bragi Boddason, a 9th-century skald (poet) known for his clever use of language and storytelling. His work, quoted in Norse sagas, celebrated creativity, expression, and the power of words—qualities we aim to inspire in every young performer.
The name also gives a nod to the Viking, Taft school's mascot where Bragi’s Players began. It’s a fun way to honor the school, celebrate creativity, and show where our adventure started.
Bragi’s Players is proudly supported by the Taft Foundation, a nonprofit organization established to enrich student lives at Taft School. Through their generosity and commitment to the arts, the foundation helps make our theater program accessible, vibrant, and full of opportunities for students to explore creativity and build confidence. By investing in the arts, the Taft Foundation ensures that students of all ages have a safe, welcoming space to express themselves, develop teamwork and leadership skills, and experience the joy of performing. Their partnership allows Bragi’s Players to continue fostering imagination, community engagement, and lifelong memories for every child who steps on stage.
Bragi’s Players was launched under the leadership of Patty Colella, a dedicated educator with a Master’s in Education—but no theater background. What she did have was passion: a love of learning through play, imagination, and creativity. Inspired by her daughter’s and granddaughter's theater experiences, she recruited volunteers, mentors, and theater enthusiasts along the way, building both her own knowledge and the foundation of our program.
Outside of Bragi’s Players, Patty teaches Braille and works with children on the autism spectrum, bringing patience, creativity, and empathy to everything she does. Her vision and heart continue to guide Bragi’s Players, making it a space where children can grow, express themselves, and shine.