Tag Archives: The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

April 30, 2019 · 12:45 pm

Nine Area Schools to Celebrate Musical Theatre Achievements Tonight

TCT_Disney's Aladdin JR. Oyler School

Oyler School’s production of Disney’s Aladdin JR. Photo by Susan Doremus.

CINCINNATI:  On April 30, The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati (TCT), The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF), in partnership with New York City-based iTheatrics and Music Theatre International (MTI), will present the 2019 JumpStart Theatre Showcase at the Taft Theatre in downtown Cincinnati.

TCTC_Hairspray JR Aiken

Aiken’s production of HAIRSPRAY JR. Photo by Susan Doremus.

What:  JumpStart Theatre is a three-year scalable program that trains educators to develop sustainable arts programs at underserved schools that do not currently offer theatre in their curriculum or after school.  The JumpStart Theatre Showcase celebrates the program’s achievements and features exciting performances by nine Cincinnati-area schools enrolled in the program.

TCTC_Disney's The Littler Mermaid JR Felicty Franklin Middle School

Felicity-Franklin Middle School’s production of Disney’s THE LITTLE MERMAID JR. Photo by Travis Willhoite.

When: Tonight, Tuesday, April 30, 2019 from 6 PM to 7 PM. A reception immediately follows.

Where:  At the Taft Theatre, 317 E. 5th Street, Cincinnati, OH  45202

The Schools:

TCTC_Annie JR Clark Montessori

Clark Montessori’s production of ANNIE JR. Photo by Susan Doremus.

About the Schools:

Nine schools are currently part of the JumpStart Theatre program.

Three schools moved to self-sustainability last year after completing three years in the program: Holmes Middle School, Finneytown Middle School, and James N. Gamble Montessori High School.

TCTC_Aladdin JR Roberts Academy

Roberts Academy’s production of Disney’s ALADDIN JR. Photo by Susan Doremus.

Three schools graduating to self-sustainability this year are:  Aiken New Tech High School, Dater High School and Felicity-Franklin Middle School.

Three more schools: Hartwell Elementary, Liberty Bible Academy, and Summit Academy Cincinnati Community School, were selected to be part of the new three-year program beginning in the 2019-20 school year.

Sponsors Include:

  • Gold Sponsors: The Lila Gallimore Trust; James and Lauren Miller
  • Silver Sponsor: Benefits Network Insurance
  • Bronze Sponsors:  Barnes Dennig, The Mayer/Langley Family
  • Food Sponsors:  Apple Spice Junction, Gordon Food Service

About The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati (TCT):
The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati is the oldest children’s theatre in the country.  Its mission is to educate, entertain and engage audiences of all ages through professional theatrical productions and arts education programming. Its vision is to awaken a lifelong love of theater in children and the young at heart. Today, the Children’s Theatre brings art to life for our audiences through three key programs:  TCT MainStage at the Taft Theatre, TCT on Tour (including Workshops) and TCT Academy. Each season TCT strives to reach more than 200,000 people in our region.  For more information visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com.

About the Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF):
The Educational Theatre Foundation  was launched November, 2017, as the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association, which is the home of the International Thespian Society. ETF provides essential financial support to enhance excellence in theatre education and to expand access to school theatre programs for every child, putting them on a more positive life path. ETF is focused on three areas: JumpStart Theatre–to create sustainable musical theatre programs where there previously were none; need-based grants to schools–to provide teaching and performance resources and equipment in under-resourced schools; and, merit and need-based grants to individuals—to nurture the next generation of theatre teachers and artists.  In its first year ETF has awarded more than $650,000 in grants, directly impacting high school theatre programs in 50 cities, and enabling the development of musical theatre programs in underserved middle schools in six states.

The JumpStart Theatre program creates sustainable theatre arts programs in middle schools where there previously were none.  Participating schools are chosen through a rigorous application process and receive training, materials, and budget support to produce their first full-scale musical production. The support continues for three years until the program becomes self-sustaining.  Non-theatre teachers are equipped with skills and resources to produce their school’s first musical through a proven combination of bootcamp style training and hands-on mentoring. The Educational Theatre Foundation operates JumpStart Theatre through a national network of regional theatre company partners who are selected based on their track-record of success in running educational programs for children. JumpStart Theatre partners are:  Alliance Theatre, Atlanta, Ga.; La Jolla Playhouse, La Jolla, Calif.; Mountain City Center for the Arts, Frostburg, MD; Stages St. Louis, St. Louis, MO; The Children’s Theatre, Cincinnati, OH*

*original pilot site

-end-

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April 24, 2019 · 3:15 pm

Auditions Announced for CASPER the Friendly Musical and A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS at The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati

TCTC_new logoTCT AUDITION CASTING NOTICE

The World-Premiere Adaption of CASPER the Friendly Musical
and the holiday favorite, A Charlie Brown Christmas

CINCINNATI:  The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati (TCT) is holding auditions in May for two MainStage productions in the company’s 100th Season: the World-Premiere Adaption of CASPER the Friendly Musical, and the holiday favorite, A Charlie Brown Christmas.

TCT is the nation’s oldest children’s theatre and is a professional theatre company. All roles are paid positions.

TCT is passionate about creating an inclusive workplace and committed to diverse casting process. All roles are open to all ethnicities and backgrounds.

Upon audition registration, you may indicate which shows you would like to be considered for this season. Auditions are by appointment only.

Young Artists ages 9-18 and Adults 18+ may make an audition appointment.

You only need ONE audition appointment even if you are interested in both productions.

New to auditioning or want to know more about the process or the shows?  Visit thechildrenstheatre.com to sign up for TCT’s Audition Prep MasterClass on May 4th!

Visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com/mainstage/auditions to sign-up for an audition appointment.

Appointments can be made for:

  • Monday, May 13, 2019 between 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM
  • Tuesday, May 14, 2019 between 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM
  • Wednesday, May 15, 2019 between 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM
  • May 16, 2019 between 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM

You may be asked to return and attend a “movement callback” on the day of your audition, which will take place from 8:30 PM to 9:00 PM.

CASPER the Friendly Musical callbacks will take place on Saturday, May 18, 10:00AM – 2:30PM

A Charlie Brown Christmas callbacks will take place on May 19, 6:00PM – 10PM

Auditions and Callbacks are held at TCT’s headquarters located at: 4015 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati OH 45227.

For information concerning auditions email Eric Byrd at eric.byrd@tctcincinnati.com.

Visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com/mainstage/auditions to sign-up for an audition appointment.

PREPARE:

Please prepare one memorized song that best shows your vocal range. (1-minute max). The song must be an age appropriate. Remember to have your PIANO SHEET MUSIC, as we will NOT be auditioning your a cappella skills. An accompanist will be provided. Your sheet music MUST have the piano part, not just the vocal line, and music should be in a 3-ring binder with the cut CLEARLY marked for the accompanist.

You only need a song. You do NOT need to prepare a monologue.

You may be asked to show your dance ability later in the evening. Please bring attire with you to change into in case we ask you to return.

You must bring a RECENT 8×10 headshot and UPDATED performance resume. Even if you upload to the audition website, a hardcopy of your headshot and resume is required.

Plan to arrive at least 10-15 minutes ahead of your appointment to check/correct previously submitted paperwork. If we are ahead of schedule, we may audition you early.

Due to concentrated rehearsal periods, we ask that you do not have conflicts during rehearsals. In an effort to best facilitate all rehearsal times, all those auditioning will be asked to list all conflicts at the time of the audition. Conflicts will result in a stipend adjustment. Please take note of when rehearsals begin, the day and evening tech and performance schedule, and bring your calendar with you to the audition.

ABOUT THE SHOWS:

CASPER the Friendly Musical
Book and lyrics: Stephen Cole
Music: Matthew Ward
Orchestrations: Luke Holloway & Dave Christensen

Adaptation: TCT and Roderick Justice. By special arrangement from Universal Theatrical Group.

Directed by: Roderick Justice
Choreographed by: Eric Byrd

TCT takes Casper center stage in this world-premiere musical adaptation for young audiences! Everyone’s favorite friendly ghost and his three uncles live a rather uneventful existence in the family mansion. Fifty years after their lives were cut short in a lightning storm, Magdalena, their former maid, re-enters their (after)lives! Now a celebrity TV Host, she is looking for the deed to the mansion… not because she wants the house, but because she believes there’s a message on the back that will lead her to a “great treasure”. As competition reality TV is all the rage, she hosts a live treasure hunt in the mansion on Halloween. One lucky young contestant could win $1 million if they find the deed! It is up to young Casper and his new friends, the contestants, to save the mansion from Magdalena, and discover the greatest treasure of all! Casper the Friendly Musical is in the style of a typical big Broadway musical with standard vocal requirements.

Rehearsals: September 7 – October 5, 2019

Mon – Thurs: 6:30-9:30 PM, Sat: 10AM – 4PM

Tech in the Taft Theatre: October 9 – 11, 2019

Daytime/Evening Performances: October 12 – 21, 2019

Morning and Afternoon performances during school days. Afternoon and evening performances Friday-Sunday.

SEEKING THE FOLLOWING:

  • CASPER: Young Male, Unchanged voice. Portrays 11-12 years old. A joyful and curious boy whose life was recently cut short because of a lightning storm. Must be able to carry the show and captivate the audience. Will fly. Loveable and friendly, but never scary. Actor, Singer, Dancer. Experience flying and using heely shoes a plus.
  • MAGDALENA: Adult Female between 60-70 years old… but being a big Hollywood star… she doesn’t look it. Her style is a mixture of Daphne Guinness, Iris Apfel, and Elvira. Fame and treasure are all she seeks and will do whatever it takes to find the greatest treasure of all. Actor, Singer, Dancer. Alto
  • DONALD: Young Male, changed-voice Bari-tenor, Portrays 12-13 years old. Clumsy and an outsider, but not a pushover. He is revealed as Magdalena’s nephew, and she has asked him to rig the competition.
  • UNCLES STRETCH, STINKY, and FATSO: Adult Males. Casper’s Uncles. As former Vaudeville performers, they miss their tap-dancing days. Unlike Casper, the Uncles are a bit grouchy they are no longer living and are pretty annoyed they are unable to cross over to the other side because Casper is waiting for his parents to return. Unfortunately, they do not have the heart to tell him they’ve already on the other side. Character Singer/Actors, with strong tap skills. Experience using heely shoes a plus.
  • BETTINA: Teen Female, Belter, Portrays 15 years old. Bettina is the oldest of the kids in the competition and the tallest. She is a popular, beautiful, bully. But she eventually changes her ways. Bettina experiences flight when Casper takes her hand during a game of pretend. Flight experience a plus. Actor/Singer/Dancer.
  • MINNIE, COCO, and LANE: Casper’s Aunts (wives of Stinky, Fatso, and Stretch) return after a failed “ghostbusting” attempt by Magdalena. The Aunts were also zapped in the lightning storm which offed Casper and the Uncles. Unfortunately, they were soaking their feet in water and are footless ghosts. With the Uncles, the Aunts are part of a big show-stopping blacklight tap number to reunite with their feet. Tapper, Actor, Singers
  • PIERCE: Teen Male. Pierce is your typical 15-year-old, beach loving, wave surfing, California tween. Dude, everything is like so totally awesome in Pierce’s world! Actor, Singer, Dancer
  • GRETCHEN: Teen Female. Portrays 14-15, Alto. Tough, Tall, Mighty. Don’t mess with her.  She is Bettina’s side kick and does whatever Bettina wants her to do. Actor, Singer, Dancer
  • PRECIOUS: Young Girl. Very small. Must Portray 7-8 years old. Tiny, adorable and LOVES sweets of any kind.  She is always seen with some form of candy in her hand.  Actor, Singer, Dancer.
  • BRADLEY:  Young Male. Portrays 10-11 years old. Smallest boy. Slightly smaller than Casper. He is a Preppy, technology loving fashion plate. Think Ritchie-Rich from a very well-off family.
  • ENSEMBLE: A group of 10+ Adults and Teens who play a wide variety of characters and features including parents, television crew members, tappers, and flashback characters. Many of these roles understudy other characters. Dancer, Singer, Actors.

A Charlie Brown Christmas
By Charles M. Schulz

Based on the television special by:
Bill Melendez and Lee Mendelson

Stage adaptation by Eric Schaeffer

By special arrangement with: Arthur Whitelaw and Ruby Persson.

Directed and Choreographed by: Roderick Justice

Back by popular demand! The whole family can celebrate the season with our live rendition of your favorite holiday special! Following the famous television special word-for-word (and frame-by-frame), Charlie Brown and the rest of the Peanuts gang are here to remind us all about what’s most important during this Yuletide season.

Rehearsals: November 4 – 27 and December 1, 2019

Mon – Thus: 6:30-9:30 PM, Sat: 10AM – 4PM, Sun the 1st: 6:30-9pm

Tech in the Taft Theatre: December 4-6

(Daytime/Evening)

Performances: December 7 – 16

Morning and Afternoon performances during school days. Afternoon and evening performances Friday-Sunday.

SEEKING THE FOLLOWING:

  • CHARLIE BROWN: Adult or Potentially a Teen Male. Portrays a Young Boy. Must embody the essence of the classic cartoon character. Must Ice Skate. Actor, Singer, Ice Skater
  • SNOOPY:  Adult Male. Must embody the essence of the classic cartoon character. Must be able to do pratfalls, howl, and pantomime to tell a great story. Actor, Singer, Ice Skater. Tumbling a plus!
  • LUCY: Adult or Potentially a Teen Female. Portrays a Young Girl. Must embody the essence of the classic cartoon character. Must Ice Skate. Self-assured, somewhat bossy friend to Charlie Brown. Actor, Singer, Ice Skater
  • LINUS:  Adult or Potentially a Teen Male. Portrays a Young Boy. Must embody the essence of the classic cartoon character. Best friend of Charlie Brown. Actor, Singer
  • PIG PEN:  Adult or Potentially a Teen Male. Portrays a Young Boy. Must embody the essence of the classic cartoon character. Messy and dusty friend of Charlie Brown and part of the gang. Must be able to ice skate. Actor, Singer, Ice Skater
  • FRIEDA:  Adult or Potentially a Teen Female. Portrays a Young Girl. Must embody the essence of the classic cartoon character. Part of the gang. Lovely red head very proud of her curls. Must be able to ice skate. Actor, Singer, Ice Skater
  • SCHROEDER:  Adult or Potentially a Teen Male. Portrays a Young boy.  Part of the gang. Plays the toy piano and love interest of Lucy. Must be able to ice skate. Actor, Singer, Ice Skater
  • VIOLET:  Adult or Potentially a Teen Female. Portrays a young girl.  Part of the gang. Must embody the essence of the classic cartoon character.
  • SALLY:  Adult or Potentially a Teen Female. Portrays a young girl.  Charlie Brown’s sister who is in love with Linus. Must be able to ice skate. Actor, Singer, Ice Skater
  • PATTY:  Adult or Potentially a Teen Female. Portrays a young girl.  Part of the gang. Known as Peppermint Patty. Must embody the essence of the classic cartoon character. Actor, Singer.
  • FRANKLIN: Adult or Potentially a Teen Male. Portrays a young boy. Must embody the essence of the classic cartoon character. Part of the gang. Franklin was the first African American character in the strip. Must be able to ice skate. Actor, Singer, Ice Skater
  • MARCIE: Adult or Potentially a Teen Female. Portrays a young girl.  Part of the gang. Must embody the essence of the classic cartoon character.
  • SHERMY: Adult or Potentially a Teen Male. Portrays a young boy.  Part of the gang. Must embody the essence of the classic cartoon character.
  • WOODSTOCK: Adult or Teen, Any Gender. Must embody the essence of the classic cartoon character. Must be able to puppeteer and pantomime to tell a great story. Actor, Puppeteer.
  • ENSEMBLE: The group of Teen Actors and Singers portraying a variety of iconic characters from the Peanuts gang and will understudy principle roles. Must embody the essence of the classic cartoon. They sing, dance, skate, and help make the television special come to life on stage.

The ability to ice skate is a plus for all characters.

-end-

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April 11, 2019 · 3:41 pm

Theatre Training Institute Now Accepting New Applications

TTI_logo

The Theatre Training Institute (TTI) serves as a bridge between performing arts, university or conservatory-level training and the professional theatre and film industry.

Rooted in developing a performer’s craft, individual process and confidence as well as personal and business management, TTI will offer a unique and professional environment with classes taught by master’s level teachers and working professionals, providing intense preparation for a life in this highly-competitive field.

“Today’s professional theatre field is extremely competitive, saturated with many different options and extreme challenges. Recent graduates from performing arts, university, or conservatory programs interested in a professional career in stage or screen, often do not know how to move beyond the limits of their hometown to the competitive markets of the larger cities which tend to be the centers of the dramatic arts,” says Ken Jones, Director of the Theatre Training Institute.  “Our vision is to be a game-changer, helping those enrolled to focus the process, build confidence and understand how to manage the business.”

There are a very limited number of programs that provide such specialized training in the nation, and most are located on the coast.  Not only will TCT’s Theatre Training Institute give Acting Fellows a solid foundation, but also provide them with a bridge to either a professional career or further education, meeting a geographic need for such programming in the Midwest.

Although the primary focus of the Theatre Training Institute is theatre training, the skills acquired in the program could lead to many allied areas of the industry. In addition to theatre and film, graduates could find work in television, cinema, video production, the cruise ship industry, advertising, retail design and fashion companies.  In addition, TTI graduates would be exposed to the opportunity of continuing their education at a university level either in pursuit of a BFA or MFA degree.

ABOUT THE PROGRAM
The Theatre Training Institute features multi-faceted programs, including:  Comprehensive, Summer Intensive and Performing Arts Audition and Application Seminar. 

TTI Comprehensive Program:
The Comprehensive Program is designed solely for high school and college graduates. The Theatre Training Institute student must audition for the 24-week program, and should have a high level of theatre experience and skills.  This two-semester program is intended for those who are employed and require a flexible schedule and includes 28 Saturday programs each 4-hours (112 hours total). Once accepted into the program, students (known as “Fellows”) will meet on weekends to allow the opportunity to maintain jobs and financially prepare for an eventual move to the theatre/film business in a larger city. The TTI Comprehensive Program begins in September 2019.  

TTI 55+: The Theatre Training Institute 55+ Intensive program of study is designed for simple integration and progression into the world of Theatre and Acting techniques.  An excellent program for the person who has always dreamed of performing and hopes to gain audition experience and knowledge of the business.  

ABOUT KEN JONES
Ken Jones is currently the Rosenthal Distinguished Professor at Northern Kentucky University.  He earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Acting/Directing from the University of Florida, a Master of Fine Arts degree in Playwriting from the University of Virginia and continued to graduate in Playwriting from the Institute for Advanced Theatre Training at Harvard University. Jones has had 27 plays produced with 10 published, nine musicals, four CDs of original soundtrack scores and listings in several anthologies and monologue books.

Jones began his playwriting career with the Off-Broadway production of his play, A RED EAGLE FALLING, produced at the Writer’s Theatre in New York City by the Project III Ensemble. His play, DARKSIDE, was chosen as TIME Magazine’s Critic Choice and was also recognized as one of the Best Plays of the 1980s.

Jones was a member of the prestigious Warner Bros. Television Writer’s Workshop and went on to serve as the Head of Development for Lightpoint Entertainment at Disney/MGM Studios for the development and creation of content for animation, television and film.

As a performer, Jones performed in the workshop productions of the Broadway musicals FINDING NEVERLAND and STEEL.  He has appeared in productions at regional theatres including the American Repertory Theatre, Heritage Theatre, Commonwealth Theatre Company and The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati, and he has voiced many characters for animated national television series.

He has received a Telly Award, a Communicator’s Award, the Post-Corbett award for Best Literary Artist, a Delauney Playwriting Award, the Kentucky Playwright’s Award, the Trailblazer Educator’s Award, seven Acclaim Awards, two Emmy nominations and six international awards for screenwriting and filmmaking.

Ken Jones is an active member of the Dramatist Guild of America, the Stage Directors and Choreographers Society, and a member of National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. Ken is the Rosenthal Distinguished Professor of Theatre and a Regent’s Professor at Northern Kentucky University, where he served as the Chair of the Department of Theatre and Dance for 11 years and was the Founding Director of the Northern Kentucky University School of the Arts.

Faculty and Guest Artists
Through his experience and industry network, Ken Jones has already secured commitments from the following individuals to serve as faculty and guest artists for TTI (list subject to change):

JAMEY STRAWN, (Musical Theatre) University of Pennsylvania, College Conservatory of Music- UC- Pianist for National Broadway Shows, Composer with nine musicals and over 50 productions.

CHRISTINE JONES, (Acting) Florida State University, University of Virginia. National Stage, film and television. Lyricist with nine musicals and over 50 productions.

STEPHANIE BRUMMER (Dance) Northern Kentucky University, St. Mary’s College of California. Professional dancer and choreographer.

DEE ANNE BRYLL (Musical Theatre/Dance) Baldwin-Wallace College, Kent State University. Nationally-recognized Arts Educator. Director and Choreographer.

CORRIE DANIELEY (Alexander Technique) Hannibal-Lagrange College, Illinois State university. Certified Master Teacher for Alexander Technique. Actress in Motion Pictures.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
For questions or additional information visit www.theatreti.com or email A. James Jones, TTI Assistant and Registrar, at james.jones@tctcincinnati.com, or call 513-569-8080 x87.

 

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April 3, 2019 · 4:06 pm

SLEEPING BEAUTY Runs April 27-May 5

CT 2018-19 Season Poster 02SLEEPING BEAUTY
The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati
April 27-May 5
Taft Theater [Downtown]

Story and book by Ken Jones
Music by Jamey Strawn
Lyrics by Christine Jones

Directed by Ken Jones
Choreographed by Eric Byrd

Cast: Brandon Bentley as Narrator/Bishop, Jordan Collins as Grinhilda/Little Mermaid, Lauren Everett as Trinhilda/Cinderella, George Ivan as Prince Phillip, Sam Johnson as Prince Christopher, A. James Jones as Prince Edward, Evan Koons as Prince Charming, Matt Krieg as Prince William, Ashley Morton as Prinhilda/Snow Queen, Mikayla Renfrow as Brinhilda, Snow White, Ella Rivera as Queen Genevieve, Spenser Smith as King Charles/Prince Frederick, Renee Stoltzfus as Drinhilda/Rapunzel, Jenna VanWeelden as Aurora & Michelle Wells as Magnilda the Magnificent
Ensemble: Evan Blust, Cammi Caldwell, Alyssa Johnson, Kevin Lausche, Caleb McKenzie, Claire Northcut & Kara Scullin

A clever take on the classic fairy tale, this new rock musical comedy is packed with humor, heart and a powerful message! The impulsive but courageous Princess Aurora (who prefers to be called Rory) defies the age-old tradition of attending ‘Princess School’, and sets out on her own to discover all the Kingdom has to offer. But along the way, she encounters her evil Fairy Godmother, the magnificent Magnilda, who placed a curse on Aurora when she was a child, causing her to fall into a deep sleep. This sleeping beauty will awaken only with a kiss from her true love. Once she is fully awake and ready to rock, the feisty Princess Rory begins a whirlwind quest to defeat Magnilda and restore order to the Kingdom.

  • Sat, April 27 at 2pm*
  • Sun, April 28 at 2pm & 5pm
  • Fri, May 3 at 7:30pm
  • Sat, May 4 at 2pm & 5pm
  • Sun, May 5 at 2pm

Official page |

 

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April 1, 2019 · 4:10 pm

Three Tri-State Schools Awarded Fully-Funded JumpStart Theatre Program

TCT_Disney's Aladdin JR. Oyler School

Oyler School’s production of Disney’s Aladdin JR. Photo by Susan Doremus.

The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati Announced Winners Today

CINCINNATI:  After a three-month selection process, The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati (TCT) has named the newest tri-state area schools that will partner with the JumpStart Theatre Program.  The Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF), in collaboration with New York City-based companies iTheatrics and Music Theatre International (MTI) created JumpStart Theatre, a three-year scalable program designed to build sustainable musical theatre programs in underserved schools that previously had none.

Hartwell Elementary, Liberty Bible Academy, and Summit Academy Cincinnati Community School were selected to be part of the three-year program beginning in the 2019-20 school year.

The selection process included a formal written application, site visits to the schools and interviews with administrators and the faculty who would be spearheading the program.

Kim Kern, Managing Director and CEO of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati said, “After a rigorous application and interview process, we are thrilled to welcome Hartwell Elementary, Liberty Bible Academy and Summit Academy as JumpStart Theatre partner schools for the 2019-20 school year.  All that applied were wonderful candidates and will be invited to the boot camp trainings and to apply again for the 2020-21 school year.  We are so excited to see the continued momentum of this program, and to work alongside the Educational Theatre Foundation to continue the growth locally while they expand the reach and impact nationally.”

The selected schools are incredibly enthusiastic about beginning the process:

Antwan Lewis, Principal of Hartwell Elementary, said, “We are excited to partner with JumpStart Theatre.  This is a great opportunity to showcase the talent of our diverse student population and welcome in our parents and community.  Students will now have another avenue to display their creativity through drama, art, music, technology and more.  We are ready to put this in motion!”

“Liberty Bible Academy is thrilled to be a part of the JumpStart Theatre program starting in the 2019-2020 school year,” said Julie Weber, LBA 5th and 6th Grade Teacher and JumpStart Theatre On-Site Director.  “The JumpStart Theatre team’s knowledge and training will help us build a sustainable program for years to come, and we can’t wait to watch our middle school students build confidence and strengthen their character because of this enriching opportunity.”

Lisa L. Singleton of Summit Academy Cincinnati Community School, said “We are very excited to get this program off the ground.  We plan to partner our lower school students with the upper school students.  This will open so many doors for our students who would not otherwise be exposed to theater.  Learning to make costumes; make props for the set and even mix the sounds for the production.  Students can be on stage or behind the scenes.  Our hope is that families will want to be involved as well.”

Each selected school will receive services and materials valued at $12,000 in the form of training, mentoring, and production support for a show for their community. Students will be involved in every aspect of the production, and TCT and ETF will also host an annual JumpStart Theatre showcase, bringing all the participants together to share their work.

Three teachers from each participating school are taught the techniques and skills to develop and manage a musical theatre program (everything from casting, to rehearsal schedules, to staging/choreography and technical requirements, to cultivating parent/community engagement, to achieving economic sustainability) through a series of three, full-day professional development “boot camps” each year of the three-year program, plus an ongoing mentoring/coaching relationship with an experienced theatre teaching artist.

For questions about the JumpStart Theatre Program and application process, visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com or email Kim.Kern@tctcincinnati.com.

About The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati (TCT):
The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati is the oldest children’s theatre in the country.  Its mission is to educate, entertain and engage audiences of all ages through professional theatrical productions and arts education programming. Its vision is to awaken a lifelong love of theater in children and the young at heart. Today, the Children’s Theatre brings art to life for our audiences through three key programs:  TCT MainStage at the Taft Theatre, TCT on Tour (including Workshops) and TCT Academy. Each season TCT strives to reach more than 200,000 people in our region.  For more information visit www.thechildrenstheatre.com.

About the Educational Theatre Foundation (ETF):
The Educational Theatre Foundation  was launched November, 2017, as the philanthropic arm of the Educational Theatre Association, which is the home of the International Thespian Society. ETF provides essential financial support to enhance excellence in theatre education and to expand access to school theatre programs for every child, putting them on a more positive life path. ETF is focused on three areas: JumpStart Theatre–to create sustainable musical theatre programs where there previously were none; need-based grants to schools–to provide teaching and performance resources and equipment in under-resourced schools; and, merit and need-based grants to individuals—to nurture the next generation of theatre teachers and artists.  In its first year ETF has awarded more than $650,000 in grants, directly impacting high school theatre programs in 50 cities, and enabling the development of musical theatre programs in underserved middle schools in six states.

The JumpStart Theatre program creates sustainable theatre arts programs in middle schools where there previously were none.  Participating schools are chosen through a rigorous application process and receive training, materials, and budget support to produce their first full-scale musical production. The support continues for three years until the program becomes self-sustaining.  Non-theatre teachers are equipped with skills and resources to produce their school’s first musical through a proven combination of bootcamp style training and hands-on mentoring. The Educational Theatre Foundation operates JumpStart Theatre through a national network of regional theatre company partners who are selected based on their track-record of success in running educational programs for children. JumpStart Theatre partners are:  Alliance Theatre, Atlanta, Ga.; La Jolla Playhouse, La Jolla, Calif.; Mountain City Center for the Arts, Frostburg, MD; Stages St. Louis, St. Louis, MO; The Children’s Theatre, Cincinnati, OH*

*original pilot site

-end-

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