Category Archives: Press Releases

February 25, 2025 · 5:05 pm

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s 2025-2026 Emery Season

There’s No Place Like Home!

Cincinnati – The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati (TCT) is excited to announce its highly anticipated 2025-2026 season, marking the nation’s oldest professional theatre for young audiences’ historic return to the newly renovated, reimagined, and revived Emery Theater.

Until 1969, The Emery Theater was home to TCT productions. With just $4 million of a $51.5 million capital campaign to go, The Emery will reopen its doors in October as a historically preserved, yet technologically state-of-the-art theatrical venue! Equipped with the latest advancement in stagecraft, projection mapping within the audience is paired with a one-of-a-kind stage lift with a built-in turntable bringing scenery from under the stage. An automated fly system, advanced trap door equipment, and the latest in acoustic technology help to set the scene, while a massive LED media wall backs the entire stage—combining live theatre with automation, projections, illustrations, and animation and transforming each TCT production into a truly unique and immersive theatrical experience. Here’s a sneak peek: https://tinyurl.com/TCTEMERY

Much like the iconic theater itself—where historic charm now meets the latest technology—the theater’s first season will be a perfect blend of the old and the new, featuring two beloved classics and two brand-new premieres. Each production will captivate audiences of all ages.

Kicking off the season and the return to the Emery, TCT will present the one-hour “youth edition” of Frank L. Baum’s timeless classic, The Wizard of Oz. A story that has enchanted audiences for generations, audiences will follow Dorothy and friends down the Yellow Brick Road in an unforgettable experience unlike anything you have ever seen before! This wickedly colorful adventure over the rainbow will surely be remembered for generations to come. Stage Direction by TCT’s Artistic Director, Roderick Justice, The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition opens the newly renovated theatre and will run from October 10-26, 2025.

During the holiday season, TCT is bringing back one of the company’s most popular productions in its 105-year history with a show that is sweeter than maple syrup— the JR. (one-hour) version of Elf The Musical! Join Buddy the Elf on his hilarious journey from the North Pole to New York City in this heartwarming and hilarious holiday favorite. Directed by former TCT Company Manager and Associate Artistic Director, Eric Byrd, Elf, the Musical JR. takes the Emery stage December 5-21, 2025.

In the winter of 2026, one of the most beloved children’s book series of all-time jumps from the page to the stage! Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical brings Jeff Kinney’s iconic characters to life in a hilarious and heartfelt production. The show will also feature original illustrations and animations by Kinney himself. With Stage Direction by TCT’s Associate Artistic Director, Maddie Burgoon Jones, this exciting new musical will premiere February 20 – March 8, 2026.

Closing out the season is the stage adaptation of one of DreamWorks’ most legendary films. TCT is elated to present the JR. version of How to Train Your Dragon. Journey to the Isle of Berk with Hiccup and the majestic dragon, Toothless, who will prove that friendship and courage have the power to change the world! With Concept Direction by Roderick Justice, DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon JR. will run between April 17 – May 3, 2026.

Artistic Director, Roderick Justice, shared his excitement about the season, stating: “Returning to The Emery Theater is a dream come true for TCT and for so many who have longed to revive the historic landmark. Our 106th season honors our past while celebrating the future, bringing both beloved stories and brand-new productions to life. We can’t wait for audiences of all ages to experience the magic of live theatre like never before!”

SUBSCRIPTIONS AND SINGLE TICKETS
Renewals for current TCT Subscribers will take place from February 26 through March 31. New subscriptions will go on sale May 6 at www.thechildrenstheatre.com. Beginning August 1, single tickets for all productions will go on sale for TCT’s 2025-2026 MainStage Season at the Emery Theater.

ACCESSIBILITY
Productions are designed for children ages 4+ and their families. ASL interpretation and audio description will be offered during the second Saturday at 2 PM performances of all productions. Sensory-Friendly performances will be scheduled for select productions.

AUDITIONS
TCT is committed to breaking down barriers, including those that impact its talent. The Company primarily casts age-appropriately—professional adult actors in adult roles and professionally trained young actors (Age 9+) in children’s roles— By moving to The Emery there will be significantly reduced workday and school-day commitments. Previously, performers missed up to 2 weeks of work/school for tech and performances; now, those cast will only miss 5 days, limited to Thursdays and Fridays. All roles are paid.

Audition breakdowns and signups will be posted on TCT’s website two weeks before each audition period. For those interested in auditioning and being considered for the first season at the Emery, mark your calendars!

  • The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition & Elf, the Musical JR. – Auditions/Callbacks: May 12-18, 2025
  • Diary of a Wimpy Kid & How to Train Your Dragon JR.– Auditions/Callbacks: August 18-24, 2025.

PERFORMANCES                                                                                                                                                           Public Performances, Sensory-Friendly, and School Matinees for the 25-26 Season:

  • The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition
    • Public Performances: October 10-12,18-19, & 25-26, 2025
    • School Matinees: October 10, 16-17, & 23-24, 2025
  • Elf, The Musical JR.
    • Public Performances: December 5-7, 13-14, & 20-21, 2025
    • School Matinees: December 5, 11-12, & 18-19, 2025
  • Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical
    • Public Performances: February 20-22, 28, March 1 & 7-8, 2026
    • School Matinees: February 20, 26-27, & March 5-6, 2026
    • Sensory-Friendly Performance: February 27, 2026
  • How to Train Your Dragon JR.
    • Public Performances: April 17-19, 25-26, & May 2-3, 2026
    • School Matinees: April 17, 23-24, 30, & May 1, 2026

SUPPORT & FUNDING               
The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati is supported by ArtsWave and the generosity of thousands of contributors to the ArtsWave Community Campaign. The Ohio Arts Council has helped fund this program with state tax dollars to encourage economic growth, educational excellence, and cultural enrichment for all Ohioans.

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February 20, 2025 · 5:08 pm

The Human Race Theatre Company’s CAMELOT

3/5 – Due to the great demand for seats, we’ve added extra performances to Camelot. Instead of ending on April 6, this mythical journal will now run through April 13.

A MYTHICAL JOURNEY AWAITS

Do you believe in love at first sight? Embark on a majestic journey to a realm where honor, dignity, and morality pave the way for a new era under the youthful King Arthur’s reign, coming to The Human Race Theatre Company this spring.

Experience a soaring, tighter Camelot at The Human Race Theatre Company

David Lee’s focused adaptation breathes new life into Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe’s beloved Camelot. At its heart lies the eternal triangle of Arthur, Guenevere, and Lancelot, their story told through the musical’s most memorable songs. A live ensemble band helps the classic score soar as the King, Queen, and Knights of the Round Table perform cherished numbers ranging from tender ballads like “If Ever I Would Leave You” and “I Loved You Once in Silence” to rousing favorites such as “The Lusty Month of May” and the unforgettable title song. This bold remake of the 1960 classic ensures audiences will depart with smiles on their faces and soaring melodies stuck in their minds.

“Arthurian legends date back to 300-500 CE, as Christianity and pagan belief systems were clashing, and different political factions were warring for power,” notes Emily N. Wells, Artistic Director of The Human Race Theatre Company. “I’ve been enthralled by the legends for a long time and find that we can all relate to the eternal quest for a round table – a symbol of an ideal world where all are welcome.”

Ian Axness, Assistant Professor of Musical Theatre and Resident Music Director at University of Cincinnati – College-Conservatory of Music, provides musical direction and Kiersten Farmer (Dayton Playhouse Joseph…) choreographs.  Wells directs the eight-person cast of revelers: Justin King, Jason Slattery, Tai Rosenblatt, Christian Hall and Shannon Lane, with Adam Thatcher as Arthur/Reveler 6, Aleah Vassell as Guenevere/Reveler 7, and Trevor Bunce as Lancelot/Reveler 8.

The full production team: Charlie Calvert, Scenic Design; Diane Ferry Williams, Lighting Design; Molly Walz, Costume Design; Kaitlin Barnett Proctor, Sound Design; emily c. porter, Sound Advisor; Sarah Gomes, Props; Mark Tynan, Production Stage Manager; Isabella Meyers, Assistant Stage Manager; Gina Cerimele-Mechley, Fight & Intimacy Director; Deborah J. Thomas, Dialect Coach.

LERNER & LOEWE’S Camelot  will play in the Loft Theatre in downtown Dayton, March 26 – April 6, 2025.  Tickets are on sale through the Dayton Live box office, 937-228-3630, or online at www.humanracetheatre.org

For press ticket requests, please contact Tiffany Countryman, Engagement and Learning Coordinator at tiffany@humanracetheatre.org

The Human Race Theatre Company continues its commitment to high quality theatre with access points for all with two special ticket initiatives: two sections of $20 seats available at any time through the box office, and ten $10 rush seats available 90 minutes before any performance.

Special Nights at The Loft:

  • Pay What You CAN – Tuesday, March 25, 2025 7:30 pm to benefit the Dayton Food Bank and NCCJ Youth Leadership Programs
  • Inside Track – Thursday, March 27, 2025 6:45 pm – Pre-show Discussion
  • While We’re On The Subject – Sunday, March 30, 2025 2 pm – Post Show Discussion
  • $10/Sawbuck Sunday – Sunday, March 30, 2025 7:30 pm – $10 tickets at 6:00 pm; Cos-Play night!
  • While We’re On The Subject – Sunday, April 6, 2025 2 pm – Post Show Discussion
  • Parent’s Day Out – Sunday, April 6, 2025 2 pm – Kids Separate Activities (5-12yo)

The Human Race expresses gratitude for the public and private support which makes these productions possible:  Loft Season Sponsor: Jack W. and Sally D. Eichelberger Foundation. Production Support by Brian Sharp. Sustainability Sponsors:  Steve and Lou Mason, The Toulmin Fund at The Dayton Foundation.  Additional Season support:  Erma R. Catterton Trust, Funds at The Dayton Foundation, Virginia F. Kettering Foundation, The Shubert Foundation, Sam Levin Foundation.  Organizational support:  Culture Works, Montgomery County, Ohio Arts Council. Media Sponsor: WDPR Discover Classical. Pay What You Can Sponsor: Enterprise Holdings Foundation. Parent’s Day Out: Rabbit Hole Books/Dayton Book Fair.  Capital Support: The Schiewetz Foundation, The Dayton Foundation, The Toulmin Fund at the The Dayton Foundation.

LERNER AND LOEWE’S CAMELOT is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).  www.mtishows.com

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February 20, 2025 · 5:07 pm

FHSD Film Program Thrives with Premiere of 2025 Film, BEHIND CLOSED DOORS

The Film students of Anderson and Turpin High Schools are collaborating once again on a short film, building on their past experience and success. “Behind Closed Doors” premieres on March 14 and 15 at 7:00 pm at Anderson High school. The thriller tells the story of Kate, whose friend Zach has something mysterious hidden in his basement.

This is the second year that Turpin and Anderson Film students have combined for the film project, including both Directors, Turpin senior Mary Harpring and Anderson senior Benjamin Hartong. In 2024, Hartong was Assistant Director and Harpring was an actor, so their expertise covers all aspects of the process.

Harpring also wrote the screenplay. She began working on the story and script in early 2024 with both Anderson Film Teacher Chad Weddle and Turpin Theatre teacher Joey Loebker.

“I was excited to begin working with Mary,” said Weddle. “She has written things in the past for collaborative projects, and I knew she had both the talent and skill to handle this difficult process.”

This is Turpin Senior Joshua Yamaguchi’s third year composing the score for the annual film projects. He began with the 2023 film, “The Whisper House,” which went on to win a national Student Film award from NATAS, the organization which organizes the Emmy® Awards.

Tickets for the premiere of “Behind Closed Doors” are $10 and can be purchased by visiting AndersonTheatre.com or at the door before each showing.

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February 13, 2025 · 5:20 pm

A Season of Color, Comedy & Pure Imagination

Stage Right Announces 2025-2026 Season

Williamstown, KY – For the first time in its history Stage Right Musical Theatre Company is thrilled to announce the entirety of its 9th Season. Featuring blockbuster titles and family fun,
Stage Right’s season is perfect for every member of the family.

“So many Theatres have been struggling to attract audiences after covid. Our patrons have shown up and then some. We are fortunate to see growth in our audiences and cannot wait to share this exciting season with old friends and brand new audiences alike!” Artistic Director John Siedenberg II said.

The season kicks off in June with Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat running June 6-22. This blockbuster musical comedy is based on the biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors with music by the legendary Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. We’re thrilled to bring one of our most requested shows this summer.

We close the summer with Mark Landon Smith’s hilarious comedy An Evening of Culture running July 11-20. When a small southern community presents Romeo & Juliet as part of their annual “Evening of Culture” things go awry fast. Set pieces fall apart, Romeo can’t read the lines smudged on his arm, and there might be a dog loose backstage. This hilarious comedy will have you laughing from beginning to end.

The holidays arrive with our education program’s (Rising Stars Academy) presentation of the classic The Best Christmas Pageant Ever running December 12-15. Barbara Robinson’s beloved story of hope, redemption, and second chances comes to life onstage for your entire
family to experience.

And our 9th season closes out with Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka running January 30 – February 8, 2026. Based on the book by Roald Dahl and the beloved 1971 film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Follow Charlie Bucket as he tours the mysterious Wonka Chocolate Factory. This wonderful musical is the perfect sweet treat to warm up your winter.

Season Tickets are now on sale at www.StageRightMTC.org with Single Tickets set to go on sale in April. Save money and see more when you subscribe to see all of our shows this
season.

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Stage Right Musical Theatre Company was founded in 2016 to provide quality entertainment and arts education to Grant County, it’s visitors, and the surrounding region. Last season alone we reached thousands of audience members from over 19 counties, 13 states and Canada.

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February 13, 2025 · 6:14 am

Cincinnati Opera Receives Anonymous Gift in Support of Opera Fusion: New Works, Extending the Program by Three Years

The gift enables the continuation of the company’s acclaimed partnership with the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music that nurtures the development of new American operas

The next workshop to be featured as part of Opera Fusion: New Works is THE POST OFFICE by Laura Kaminsky and Elaine Sexton, with a free, public performance of excerpts on March 22, 2025

CINCINNATI (February 12, 2025)—Cincinnati Opera is delighted to announce a generous donation in support of Opera Fusion: New Works (OF:NW), its joint creative venture with the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM). The company has received an anonymous gift that will extend OF:NW by three years.

Cincinnati Opera and CCM launched Opera Fusion: New Works in 2011 to foster the development of new American operas, receiving significant support from the Mellon Foundation. Jointly led by Robin Guarino, professor of opera at CCM, and Evans Mirageas, The Harry T. Wilks Artistic Director of Cincinnati Opera, the nationally unique initiative offers composers and librettists the opportunity to A moment from the Opera Fusion: New Works workshop for Lalovavi by Kevin Day and Tifara Brown. Photo by Philip Groshong, May 2024.
workshop their operas-in-progress, utilizing the facilities, personnel, and talent of both Cincinnati Opera and CCM.

To date, the program has hosted 34 workshops or orchestral readings for 28 operas, including several works which have since received multiple productions throughout the U.S.: Fellow Travelers by Gregory Spears and Greg Pierce, Eurydice by Matthew Aucoin and Sarah Ruhl, and Champion by Terence Blanchard and Michael Cristofer. Two OF:NW projects received their New York City premieres earlier this month to enthusiastic audience and critical acclaim: Blind Injustice by Scott Davenport Richards and David Cote, and Morgiane by Edmond Dédé.

Funding from the Mellon Foundation, which has supported OF:NW since its inception, is due to end in 2025. The newly announced gift will enable the program to continue through 2028 and host workshops for six additional operas.

Said Evans Mirageas, “Opera Fusion: New Works has been transformative for Cincinnati Opera, CCM, and opera in America. This generous gift will allow this unique creative collaboration to continue to thrive, giving composers and librettists valuable resources to shape their stories and ensuring the vibrancy of the art form for decades to come.”

“CCM is proud to continue our partnership with Cincinnati Opera, and we are grateful for the wonderful gift that makes this possible,” said Peter Jutras, the Thomas James Kelly Professor of Music and Dean at CCM. “Opera Fusion: New Works is an initiative that exemplifies the spirit of our university’s ‘Next Lives Here’ strategic direction, connecting our students with the artists who are shaping the future of their industry and adding to the opera repertoire with impactful stories that resonate with contemporary audiences.”

To learn more about Opera Fusion: New Works, visit ofnw.org.

Up Next for OF:NW: THE POST OFFICE
Cincinnati Opera and CCM are also pleased to share details of the next opera to be workshopped through OF:NW: The Post Office, with music by Laura Kaminsky and libretto by Elaine Sexton. A public performance of excerpts will take place Saturday, March 22, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. at Cincinnati Music Hall.

The work is set in a one-room post office, where three U.S. postal workers and a customer from disparate backgrounds take sides in a blistering conflict centered around same-sex marriage. The formerly collegial friendship between the postmaster, who is Black and straight, and his colleague, who is white and gay, turns foul when the latter happily
announces his upcoming wedding. Taking place in the present day, with increasing hostility, toxicity, and violence playing out in the news, everyday exchanges become fraught: civil rights, reproductive rights, and LGBTQIA rights are challenged and threatened, and the sanctity of the postal service itself is at risk.

Event Details

What:
Opera Fusion: New Works presents THE POST OFFICE

When and Where:
Saturday, March 22, 2025 | 7:30 p.m.
The Presidents’ Garret | Corbett Opera Center at Cincinnati Music Hall
1243 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Tickets:
Admission is free, though seating is limited and reservations are required. Reservations are available by calling 513-241-2742 or visiting cincinnatiopera.org.

About CCM
Nationally ranked and internationally renowned, the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) is a preeminent institution for the performing and media arts. The school’s educational roots date back to 1867, and a solid, visionary instruction has been at its core since that time. CCM offers 10 degree types in nearly 120 possible majors, along with a wide variety of pre-collegiate and post-graduate programs and workshops. CCM is the largest single source of performing arts presentations in the state of Ohio. Its annual calendar boasts nearly 1,000 events, ranging from solo recitals and large ensemble concerts to fully-staged acting, dance, opera and musical theatre performances.

Declared a top college vocal program by Backstage Magazine and described as “one of the continent’s major music schools,” by the Toronto Star, CCM’s Departments of Opera and Voice provide one of the most comprehensive training programs for opera singers, coaches, and directors in the United States. CCM offers an international faculty of dedicated educators who are also celebrated professionals in their own right, widely and currently active in their respective fields. Several national opera companies hold auditions at the conservatory, and CCM students frequently advance to the final rounds of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions. CCM graduates have performed on the stages of the world’s greatest opera companies, including Cincinnati Opera, the Metropolitan Opera, Lyric Opera of
Chicago, San Francisco Opera, Royal Opera (London), La Scala (Italy), and more. CCM Voice and Opera program support is provided by the Mellon Foundation for Opera Fusion: New Works, The Louise Dieterle Nippert Musical Arts Fund, and the Patricia A. Corbett Estate. Additional support for CCM’s undergraduate opera productions is provided by Rafael and Kimberly de Acha. Guest directors for the 2024-25 season are supported by the Bacchus Legacy Foundation. To learn more, visit ccm.uc.edu.

About Cincinnati Opera
Cincinnati Opera’s mission is to enrich and connect our community through diverse opera experiences. Founded in 1920 and the second-oldest opera company in the nation, Cincinnati Opera presents a thrilling season of grand opera every summer and engaging programs throughout the year. The company’s repertoire includes beloved classics and contemporary masterworks brought to life by some of the world’s most dynamic performers and creative artists.

Cincinnati Opera is supported by the generosity of tens of thousands of contributors to the ArtsWave Community Campaign. This project was supported in part by the Ohio Arts Council, which receives support from the State of Ohio and the National Endowment for the Arts. Cincinnati Opera also receives general season support from The Louise Dieterle Nippert Musical Arts Fund, Patricia A. Corbett Estate and Trust, and the Harry T. Wilks Family Foundation, along with general season and project support from many other generous individuals, corporations, and foundations. Opera Fusion: New Works receives support from the Mellon Foundation and a generous anonymous donor. Cincinnati Opera is a member of OPERA America. Learn more at cincinnatiopera.org.

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