VOH, a nonprofit group, held one performance Friday, two shows Saturday, and a final encore on Sunday, with a cast of 26 student performers ages 10 to 18 from across the Greater Boston area. It was a showcase of talent, heart and community, with proceeds from the weekend’s sold-out performances benefitting the Termeer Center for Targeted Therapies at Mass General Cancer Center in Boston.

The musical follows protagonist Evan Goldman as he navigates adolescence with a 13th birthday on the horizon. All in all, the show offers an experience that resonates with adults and soon-to-be adults alike. But there’s a much deeper meaning for the cast, crew and every soul taking part in the production.

Many of the volunteers, including the young performers, have been personally impacted by cancer, whether through the loss of a loved one or supporting someone battling the disease. The summer youth program, which runs for five weeks each summer, provides a creative space for students in grades 5 through 12 to hone theatrical skills while also learning about philanthropy and the power of giving back.

“We’re inspired to use what we can – our talents – for good,” said Diane Meehan, producer of the show. “That’s what we’re teaching to the kids: It’s not just about getting up on stage and having a great show, but actually using your skills to do something valuable.”

The young cast, who had spent days and nights rehearsing, poured their hearts into each show tune.

Allison Shpritzer, a rising senior in high school who played cheerleader Becky, said this was her fourth production with Voices of Hope and her 20th show overall. She said that she was motivated to play her part in honor of a close friend’s mother, who passed away from cancer.

“The best part is that as much fun as I’m having with everyone – I love theatre and the kids and adults in this program – it’s extra special that we’re doing some good with our summer,” Shpritzer said.

Ian Milner, a rising ninth-grader, made his VOH debut this year in the leading role of Evan Goldman.

“It’s great knowing that I could help so many people out while doing something that I love doing,” Milner said, also expressing his love for theatre and the purpose this show serves.

Like Sphritzer and Milner, many of the cast members were plucked by director Jon DiPrima, a teacher and school theatre director. He led the children on stage with the help of many volunteer technicians, producers and others.

“Every performer on that stage is not just dedicated to putting on a good show, but one that will save lives,” DiPrima said. “I never planned on being in a show that would be a pathway to cures for cancer, but somehow, I’m using my skills here to make the world a little bit of a better place.”

VOH’s Executive Artistic Director Dana Siegal said events like this past weekend’s are a “special pride and joy.” She added that the group’s focus on both performance and philanthropy keeps children and families coming back each summer.

“What’s really important is our broader mission, like what show will give our teens the opportunity to bring the goal into play,” Siegal said.

This sentiment was echoed by the showrunners, the actors, and again by parents. Lisa Lovett, whose daughter, Rosa, played Kendra in the play, said this was their third year with the organization.

“My daughter loves musical theatre. So, as a parent, having your child do something they love, but also having that opportunity to focus on the good mission behind it is so impactful and unique.” Lovett said.

The man behind the curtain, Greg Chastain, watches the cast and crew prepare before it’s go-time. He founded VOH in 2009 in honor of his mother, who died from pancreatic cancer.

Chastain said the group grew from a debut of 23 members to roughly 150 volunteers today, all working toward a shared mission of funding cancer research through performative and community events. The group has donated more than $1.2 million to cancer research through programs like theatre productions, as well as golf tournaments and craft fairs.

“I’ve always done theatre. My mom always promoted that in me,” Chastain said. “She always was behind everything I wanted to do musically, so I couldn’t think of a better way to give it back to her.”

Many folks from VOH emphasize that the charity comes first, and the theatre aspect comes second. But with those two passions combined, community members are clinging to the cause until the curtain falls.

“Everybody that comes through this building is furthering that mission and building the donation that we give to Mass General Hospital every year,” DiPrima said.

As the final curtain closed Sunday, the young performers gathered on stage one last time, voices strong and united, embodying the group’s mission. For Voices of Hope, the applause was not just for the show, but for a future they hope will one day be cancer-free.