The West Hartford Summer Arts Festival (SAF) began over 40 years ago as a venue for West Hartford high school and college students to perform in high caliber productions of some of Broadway’s most famous musicals and plays. Since its inception, the program has expanded to include participants outside of West Hartford and found its focus centering on musicals. The program employs professional designers and directors from the greater Hartford area, who are held to the highest standards set forth by its founder, Haig Shahverdian. SAF prides itself on being a learning experience for those who are interested in various aspects of musical theater including acting, singing, dancing, orchestra, and technical theater.