Photography by Michele Affronte-McCausland
A past performance by the Columbia Children’s Theater.
Founded in 2005, Columbia Children’s Theater is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing professional live theater and thespian opportunities for Midlands youth. Programming not only enriches the lives of audiences with the wonders and magic of live theater, it also enables children to express themselves in ways that transcend cultural, ethnic, and generational boundaries. Memories made at the theatre last long after the productions close.
Each season, the theatre produces five main stage productions appropriate for all ages and three shows incorporating young student actors ranging from 1st through 12th grades. In addition, they also provide a training program in theatre arts through a series called KidStage. This program is designed to give young actors the opportunity to rehearse and perform in live productions under professional directors, writers, and designers. The education program offers instruction on all aspects of theater including acting skills, on-camera work, and script development. Columbia Children’s Theatre encourages participation from all students as it benefits the development of creativity, critical thinking, motor skills, teamwork, and leadership. Their programs are offered to age-specific groups and taught by certified master teachers of theatre and/or working actors.
Early next year, Columbia Children’s Theatre is putting on A Year with Frog and Toad, a charming story of an enduring friendship that weathers all seasons, running from February 8 to 17, 2013. Following the February production, Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical, will run from April 12 to 21, 2013. It is based on the children’s book, Caldecott Honor, about a family visit to the local Laundromat and the tragedy and love surrounding a stuffed animal.
Columbia Children’s Theatre is supported by the City of Forest Acres and contributors from the Arts Fund of the Cultural Council of Richland and Lexington Counties and by the South Carolina Arts Commission. They are located on the second floor of the Richland Mall. For more information about the upcoming season schedule and to purchase tickets, please visit www.columbiachildrenstheatre.com
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