columbiachildrenstheatre

The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition Auditions

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:52:24 GMT

About the Show

E very summer, CCT brings together performers in grades 1–12 for one fully produced musical. Actors rehearse side by side, learning from experienced directors and from each other while building confidence, friendships, and real skills on stage.

This summer, we're headed to Oz! Follow Dorothy and Toto down the Yellow Brick Road in The Wizard of Oz: Youth Edition, featuring all the iconic songs and characters you love. Whether your young performer is brand new to the stage or a seasoned pro, this is their chance to be part of something unforgettable.

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who: Actors in grades 1-12 (25-26 school year).

When: Audition dates are below.

Friday, May 8th @ 5:30-7:00 (grades 1-5) and 7:30-9:00pm (grades 6-12)
Saturday, May 9th @ 3:00-4:30pm (grades 1-5) and 5:00-6:30pm (grades 6-12)
Monday, May 11th @ 6-8pm Callbacks (we will let actors who are called back know via email after their audition session if they need to return for callbacks on this date)

**If you need to swap dates after you submit the form or cannot make it to the dates/times listed below, please contact Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Where: Washington St. United Methodist Church (1401 Washington St, Columbia, SC 29201)

*Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. Parents will drop their actors off after check-in and come back at the end time listed above.

Rehearsals will begin May 18th, 2026.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file) carefully. **By signing the audition form, you agree to adhere to all listed requirements on this sheet.
Auditionees in grades 6-12 will be asked to perform a selection of a song from the show. Audition Selections will be sent out via email closer to the audition date.
Actors will also learn a short dance routine and may be asked to read lines from the script at each audition session
Actors only need to attend one audition session unless they are asked to return for a callback audition (May 11th).
Please wear closed-toed shoes and clothing suited for movement (NO CROCS, please!).

IMPORTANT INFO

The cast list will be sent out via email by Friday, May 15th @8pm. Here you will accept or decline your actor’s role.
There is a one-time $150 ($300 max per family) participation fee payable on our retail page or by check/cash at the first rehearsal. If you are unable to pay this fee, a limited number of scholarships are available to help lower the cost.
Rehearsals begin May 18th. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons at Washington St. United Methodist Church. The rehearsal schedule will be released after the first rehearsal.
There will be a mandatory parent meeting at the first rehearsal for each cast on May 18th (Ruby Cast) and May 20th (Emerald Cast) at 6pm. The meeting will take approximately 30 minutes.
Participation fees and retail items will be available for purchase on our retail page on May 15th.
The Wizard of Oz will have two casts, one performing a 4-show run each weekend at CA Johnson High School .
RUBY CAST July 24-26
July 24th @7pm
July 25th @ 2pm and 7pm
July 26th @ 3pm
EMERALD CAST August 4-6
August 4th @7pm
August 5th @ 2pm and 7pm
August 6th @ 3pm

There will be no conflicts accepted for either cast July 13th-18th. There will also be no conflicts for RUBY CAST July 20th-26th and no conflicts for EMERALD CAST July 27th-August 2nd. CCT will be closed June 29th-July 5th.

****Any actor with more than 10 conflicts with rehearsals may not be considered for a role unless conflicts are negotiated. Conflicts must be finalized by audition date. Additional conflicts will be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Conflicts listed on audition form will be honored as excused absences, and unexcused absences may result in an actor being cut from songs and/or scenes or recast.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Mainstage Auditions

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 14:00:18 GMT

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Auditions (Spring 26' Mainstage)

CCT is happy to announce auditions for its Mainstage spring production, Diary of a Wimpy Kid. We were founded as a professional theatre for young audiences (TYA) that uses paid adult actors to perform for families, young audiences, and school groups.

What You Need to Know

Who: Auditions are open to any adults and teens 15+

Where: Washington St. United Methodist Church

When: Friday, February 6th @6-8pm OR Saturday, February 7th @3-5pm

Auditions are drop-in style so you may attend at any time during those hours. * *Please plan on being there at least 15 minutes before the end time.

Audition Requirements

Please complete this Google Form with your info
Please prepare 24-32 bars of a Broadway-style song sung a cappella
You may also be asked to read sides from the show during the audition
If you have a headshot and resume, please bring hard copies to your audition.

**If you are unable to make an in-person audition, please submit the Google Form and send a video recording of your song selection and a 60-second contemporary comedic monologue to sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com by February 7th at 5pm.

Show Information

Rehearsals begin March 16th, and we generally rehearse on weeknights and weekend afternoons at Washington St. United Methodist Church. Actors must be available on the evenings of April 27th & 28th for Tech Rehearsals at Harbison Theatre.

Show Schedule (All at Harbison Theatre in Irmo):

School Shows April 29th @ 9:15am & 11am
School Shows April 30th @9:15am & 11am
School Shows May 1st @9:15am & 11am
Public Shows May 2nd @2pm & 6pm

Please contact CCT Director of Operations Sadie Carr with any further questions at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

The Drowsy Chaperone Auditions

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 21:14:11 GMT

About the Show

With the houselights down, a man in a chair appears on stage and puts on his favorite record: the cast recording of a fictitious 1928 musical. The recording comes to life and The Drowsy Chaperone begins as the man in the chair looks on. Mix in two lovers on the eve of their wedding, a bumbling best man, a desperate theatre producer, a not-so-bright hostess, two gangsters posing as pastry chefs, a misguided Don Juan and an intoxicated chaperone, and you have the ingredients for an evening of madcap delight.

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who: Actors in grades 7-12 (25-26 school year).

When: Auditions will be held on Sunday, November 16th from 3-5pm OR Monday, November 17th from 6-8pm.

Where: CCT’s space inside The Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia. 1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169 (entrance faces Batchelor St. & The Palmetto Grand Lodge)

***Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately two hours. Parents will drop their actors off after check-in and come back at the end time listed above.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file) **By signing the audition form, you agree to adhere to all listed requirements on this sheet.
Auditionees will be asked to perform one song at auditions from the following selections:
“Aldolpho” (pdf file)
“As We Stumble Along” (pdf file)
“Cold Feets” (pdf file)
“Show Off Reprise” (pdf file)
Actors will also learn a short dance routine and may be asked to read lines from the script at each audition session
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition. *Please wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes to auditions (no Crocs, please!)

After the Audition:

The cast list will be sent out via email by Friday, December 5th @5pm. Here you will accept or decline your role.
There is a one time participation fee of $125 ($250 max per family) due by the first rehearsal. There are a limited number of scholarships available.
Participation fees and retail items will be available for purchase on our retail page on December 5th.
Rehearsals begin Monday, December 8th with our read-thru from 6-8pm. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. The rehearsal schedule will be released after the first rehearsal.
CCT will be closed December 21st-January 4th. We will resume rehearsals on January 5th.
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning Tuesday, Jan. 20th.
Performances will be held January 30-February 1 at CA Johnson High School.
January 30th @7pm
January 31st @2pm
January 31st @7pm
February 1st @3pm

Pricing:

There is no cost to audition, but participating young performers are required to pay a $125 participation ($250 max per family) fee by the first rehearsal in order to join us for The Drowsy Chaperone. There are a limited number of scholarships available.

Questions?

Email CCT Director of Operations Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Production Staff

Director: Sadie Carr

Assistant Director: Toby O’Connor

Peter Pan Jr. Auditions

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 19:47:44 GMT

About the Show

This spring, join CCT’s PB&J Players as they bring this beloved classic to life. Based on J.M. Barrie's classic tale and featuring an unforgettable score by Morris "Moose" Charlap and Jule Styne with lyrics by Carolyn Leigh and Betty Comden and Adolph Green, Peter Pan is one of the most beloved and frequently performed family favorites of all time.

Peter and his mischievous fairy sidekick, Tinkerbell, visit the nursery of the Darling children late one night and, with a sprinkle of pixie dust, begin a magical journey across the stars that none of them will ever forget. In the adventure of a lifetime, the travelers come face to face with a ticking crocodile, the fierce Brave Girls, a band of bungling pirates and, of course, the villainous Captain Hook. Featuring the iconic songs, "I'm Flying," "I've Gotta Crow," "I Won't Grow Up" and "Never Never Land," and a rousing book full of magic, warmth and adventure, Peter Pan JR. is the perfect show for the child in all of us... who dreamed of soaring high and never growing up.

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who: Actors in grades 1-6 (25-26 school year).

When: Monday, February 9th from 5:30-8pm. If you are unable to attend, email sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com for information on virtual options.

Where: Washington Street United Methodist Church 1401 Washington St Columbia, SC 29201.

Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately 2 hours. Parents will drop their actors off after check-in and come back at the end time listed above.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file) **By signing the audition form, you agree to adhere to all listed requirements on this sheet.
Auditionees do not need to prepare anything for auditions, come as you are! During auditions, actors will be asked to learn an excerpt of a song, a short dance combination, and will possibly read some lines from the script. Please wear closed-toed shoes and clothes you can move in.
Actors only need to attend one audition session unless asked to return for a callback audition.

After the audition:

The cast list will be sent out via email by Friday, February 13th @5pm. Here you will accept or decline your actor’s role.
There is a one time participation fee of $125 ($250 max per family). There are a limited number of scholarships available, and you can request one after the cast list has been sent.
Rehearsals begin Tuesday, February 17th. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. The rehearsal schedule will be released after the first rehearsal.
There will be a mandatory parent/actor meeting before the first rehearsal at 6pm. The meeting shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes.
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning March 16th.
Performances will be March 27-29 at Brookland-Cayce High School (link opens in Google Maps).
March 27th @7pm
March 28th @2pm
March 28th @7pm
March 29th @3pm

Pricing:

There is no cost to audition, but participating young performers are required to pay a $125 participation ($250 max per family) fee by the first rehearsal in order to join us for Peter Pan Jr. There are a limited number of scholarships available.

Questions?

Email CCT Director of Operations Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

The Aristocats Kids Auditions

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 19:34:55 GMT

About the Show

This fall, join CCT’s PB&J Players as they present Disney's The Aristocats Kids , based on the beloved Disney animated film. Featuring a jazzy, upbeat score, Disney’s The Aristocats KIDS is a non-stop thrill ride of feline fun, complete with unbelievable twists and turns. In the heart of Paris, a kind and eccentric millionairess wills her entire estate to Duchess, her high-society cat, and her three little kittens. Laughs and adventure ensue as the greedy, bumbling butler pulls off the ultimate catnap caper. Now it's up to the rough-and-tumble alley cat, Thomas O'Malley, and his band of swingin' jazz cats to save the day.

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who: Actors in grades 1-6 (25-26 school year).

When: Sunday, September 7th from 3-5pm OR Monday, September 8th from 6-8pm.

Where: The Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia: 1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169 (entrance faces Batchelor St. & The Palmetto Grand Lodge)

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file) **By signing the audition form, you agree to adhere to all listed requirements on this sheet.
Auditionees do not need to prepare anything for auditions, come as you are! During auditions, actors will be asked to learn an excerpt of a song, a short dance combination, and will possibly read some lines from the script. Please wear closed-toed shoes and clothes you can move in.
Actors only need to attend one audition session unless asked to return for a callback audition.

After the audition:

The cast list will be sent out via email by Friday, September 12th @5pm. Here you will accept or decline your actor’s role.
There is a one time participation fee of $125 ($250 max per family). There are a limited number of scholarships available, and you can request one after the cast list has been sent.
Rehearsals begin September 15th. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. The rehearsal schedule will be released after the first rehearsal.
There will be a mandatory parent/actor meeting before the first rehearsal at 6pm. The meeting shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes.
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning October 13th.
Performances will be October 24-26 at Brookland-Cayce High School (link opens in Google Maps).
October 24th @7pm
October 25th @2pm
October 25th @7pm
October 26th @3pm

Pricing:

There is no cost to audition, but participating young performers are required to pay a $125 participation ($250 max per family) fee by the first rehearsal in order to join us for The Aristcats Kids There are a limited number of scholarships available.

Questions?

Email CCT Director of Operations Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Field Trips

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 18:34:57 GMT

About the Show

Surviving middle school is no joke - just ask Greg Heffley. Based on the best-selling book series, Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Musical brings Greg’s hilarious misadventures to the stage with catchy songs, big laughs, and all the awkward moments that come with trying to fit in, stand out, and survive the school year.

This professional Mainstage production is a fantastic field trip opportunity for students. With a run time around one hour, curriculum connections in literature and social-emotional learning, and group-friendly weekday matinees, it’s a high-energy and relatable way to spark discussion - and laughter - in the classroom.

Bring your students to see what happens when one “wimpy kid” discovers that being yourself might just be the coolest thing of all!

Showtimes & Pricing

Admission is $8.00 per student. One free adult ticket is provided for every ten students in attendance. Reservations require a minimum of 10 tickets. Performances will be held at Harbison Theatre (7300 College St, Irmo, SC 29063).

Your students can experience this incredible production:

Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 9:15am
Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 11:00am
Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 9:15am
Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 11:00am
Friday, May 1, 2026, at 9:15am
Friday, May 1, 2026, at 11:00am

About CCT Field Trips

Since 2005 Columbia Children’s Theatre has been producing Mainstage productions featuring professional actors performing for young people across the Midlands. Through our education program, we make each season’s show available to school and homeschool audiences at a discounted rate to ensure as many young people as possible have access to the arts.

Please read the field trip performance and conditions sheet here before booking your field trip. This document contains all the additional details you'll need.

Best Christmas Pageant Ever Field Trips

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 18:26:30 GMT

About the Show

When the rowdy Herdman kids - arguably the worst kids in the history of the world - crash the church Christmas pageant, the result is chaos, comedy, and a heartwarming surprise. Based on the beloved book, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical brings laughter and lessons to the stage with catchy songs, lovable characters, and a fresh take on the true meaning of the season.

This professional Mainstage production is the perfect field trip opportunity for students. With a run time under one hour, curriculum connections in literature and character education, and group-friendly weekday matinees, it’s a festive and meaningful way to bring the holidays to life.

Bring your students to see what happens when the “worst kids ever” just might put on the best Christmas pageant ever!

Showtimes & Pricing

Your students can experience this incredible production:

Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 9:15am
Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 11:00am
Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 9:15am
Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 11:00am
Friday, December 5, 2025, at 9:15am
Friday, December 5, 2025, at 11:00am

About CCT Field Trips

Please read the field trip performance and conditions sheet here before booking your field trip. This document contains all the additional details you'll need.

Wiley and the Hairy Man Field Trips

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 17:13:11 GMT

About the Show

Columbia Children's Theatre and NiA Theatre Company are proud to bring you Wiley and the Hairy Man !

In a world thick with rhythm, rhyme, and mystery, Wiley and the Hairy Man invites audiences into the depths of the Tombigbee Swamp, where a clever boy must outsmart the fearsome figure who haunts his dreams. This lyrical Southern folktale blends storytelling and stagecraft, drawing on poetic language and folklore traditions to bring Wiley’s journey to life. With the help of his loyal dog and wise Mama, Wiley learns to face what frightens him most with courage, wit, and heart.

Performed by NiA Theatre Company’s professional actors, this production is designed especially for young patrons - combining top-tier talent with the kind of heart and humor that students (and grown-ups!) love!

Showtimes & Pricing

Admission is $8.00 per student. One free adult ticket is provided for every ten students in attendance. Reservations require a minimum of 10 tickets. Performances will be held at Richland Library Sandhills (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223).

Your students can experience this incredible production:

Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 9:15am
Thursday, February 19, 2026 at 11:00am
Friday, February 20, 2026 at 9:15am
Friday, February 20, 2026 at 11:00am

About CCT Field Trips

Please read the field trip performance and conditions sheet here before booking your field trip. This document contains all the additional details you'll need.

Curious George: The Golden Meatball Field Trips

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 17:02:45 GMT

About the Show

Everyone’s favorite curious little monkey is swinging onto the stage for a meatball-flavored mission like no other! In this upbeat musical adventure, George gets swept away on a journey full of surprises, silly mishaps, and big-hearted moments as he sets out to help his chef friend win a world-famous meatball contest in Rome. Packed with catchy songs, charming characters, and nonstop monkey business, this show is perfect for younger audiences and anyone who believes that a little curiosity can lead to the biggest adventures.

Performed by Columbia Children’s Theatre’s professional actors, this production is designed especially for young patrons - combining top-tier talent with the kind of heart and humor that students (and grown-ups!) love!

Showtimes & Pricing

Admission is $8.00 per student. One free adult ticket is provided for every ten students in attendance. Reservations require a minimum of 10 tickets. Performances will be held at Richland Library Sandhills (763 F ashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223).

Your students can experience this incredible production:

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 9:15am
Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at 11:00am
Thursday, September 18, 2025 at 9:15am
Thursday, September 18, 2025 at 11:00am SOLD OUT
Friday, September 19, 2025 at 9:15am SOLD OUT
Friday, September 19, 2025 at 11:00am SOLD OUT

About CCT Field Trips

Please read the field trip performance and conditions sheet here before booking your field trip. This document contains all the additional details you'll need.

Peter Pan Jr.

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 16:39:29 GMT

About the Show

The PB&J Players are excited to present Peter Pan JR. , a high-flying musical adventure full of magic, mischief, and the power of imagination!

Join Peter, Wendy, John, and Michael as they soar off to Neverland—a world of pirates, fairies, and lost boys where you never have to grow up. From sword fights with Captain Hook to sparkling moments with Tinker Bell, this beloved tale comes to life with catchy songs, colorful characters, and heartwarming lessons about bravery, friendship, and believing in yourself.

Perfect for kids and grown-ups alike, Peter Pan JR. is a timeless journey that will leave you thinking happy thoughts long after the curtain falls.

Showtimes

Performances will be held March 27-29 at Brookland Cayce High School (1300 State St, Cayce, SC 29033).

Friday, March 27th, at 7:00 pm
Saturday, March 28th, at 2:00 pm
Saturday, March 28th, at 7:00 pm
Sunday, March 29th at 3:00 pm

The Drowsy Chaperone

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 16:33:08 GMT

About the Show

The CCTeens are proud to present The Drowsy Chaperone, a musical comedy that brings the magic of classic musicals to life - with a twist.

When a devoted theatre fan plays his favorite cast album, the show leaps off the record and into his living room, transforming the space into a full-blown 1920s Broadway spectacle. Complete with a glamorous bride, a forgetful groom, tap-dancing gangsters, and a chaperone who’s rarely sober, this musical within a musical is packed with laughs, surprises, and show-stopping numbers.

Winner of five Tony Awards, The Drowsy Chaperone is a love letter to musical theatre - perfect for audiences who adore big characters, big songs, and even bigger fun.

Showtimes

Performances will be held at CA Johnson High School (2219 Barhamville Rd, Columbia, SC 29204):

Friday, January 30th, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Saturday, February 7th, 2026 at 2:00 PM
Saturday, February 7th, 2026 at 7:00 PM
Sunday, February 8th, 2026 at 2:00 PM

The Aristocats KIDS

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 15:57:52 GMT

About the Show

The PB&J Players are proud to present Disney’s The Aristocats KIDS !

Based on the beloved animated film, this jazzy musical adventure follows Duchess and her three kittens as they navigate the streets of Paris with the help of the charming alley cat, Thomas O'Malley. When their wealthy owner’s butler cat-naps them in a greedy scheme, the cats must find their way home - encountering colorful characters and discovering courage, friendship, and feline flair along the way.

With toe-tapping tunes, lively dance numbers, and a cast of unforgettable characters, The Aristocats KIDS is a delightful celebration of what happens when you let your heart (and tail) lead the way. Perfect for audiences of all ages, this upbeat production will have you purring with joy!

Showtimes

Performances will be held October 24-26, 2025 at Brookland Cayce High School (1300 State St, Cayce, SC 29033.)

Friday, October 24, 2025 at 7:00 pm
Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 2:00 pm
Saturday, October 25, 2025 at 7:00 pm
Sunday, October 26, 2025 at 3:00 pm

Wiley and the Hairy Man

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 20:59:33 GMT

About the Show

Columbia Children's Theatre and NiA Theatre Company are proud to bring you Wiley and the Hairy Man !

Performed by NiA Theatre Company’s professional actors, this production is crafted for young audiences and their families, offering a meaningful and imaginative experience that speaks to all ages.

Showtimes & Pricing

Showtimes
Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 2:00pm

Sunday, February 22, 2026 at 3:00pm

Pricing

Tickets to Wiley and the Hairy Man are $15 general admission.

Location

Performances will be held at the Richland Library Sandhills (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223).

About NiA Theatre Company

The NiA Company was founded in 1998 by graduates of Trustus Theatre's African American Acting Workshop as a small, traveling theatre company in the Midlands. They are a collective of art makers of different races, genders, politics, beliefs, sexual orientations, and concerns who come together to make theatre that speaks with a human voice from a black soul, touching the hearts and minds of young and old, rich and poor, the uninitiated and those in the know. South Carolina's nomadic art heroes have been at it for nearly three decades, performing and teaching on stages from Charleston's Piccolo Spoleto to Charlotte's Harvey B. Gantt Center of African American Art and Culture.

NiA's purpose is to educate, inform, and empower the community at large by bringing artistic programs to nontraditional theatre-goers such as minorities, at-risk youth, and economically-challenged groups.

Curious George: The Golden Meatball

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 20:56:00 GMT

About the Show

Performed by Columbia Children’s Theatre’s professional actors, this production is designed especially for families - combining top-tier talent with the kind of heart and humor that kids (and grown-ups!) love!

Showtimes & Pricing

Showtimes
Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 2:00 pm

Sunday, September 21, 2025 at 3:00 pm

Pricing

Tickets to Curious George: The Golden Meatball are $15 general admission.

Location

Performances will be held at Richland Library Sandhills (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223).

Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka

Wed, 28 May 2025 13:00:26 GMT

About the Show

Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka follows enigmatic candy manufacturer, Willy Wonka, as he stages a contest by hiding golden tickets in five of his scrumptious candy bars. Whomever comes up with these tickets will win a free tour of the Wonka factory, as well as a lifetime supply of candy. Four of the five winning children are insufferable brats: the fifth is a likable young lad named Charlie Bucket, who takes the tour in the company of his equally amiable grandfather.

The children must learn to follow Mr. Wonka's rules in the factory... or suffer the consequences.

Showtimes

Cast Pure Imagination

Friday, July 25th at 7:00pm

Saturday, July 26th at 2:00pm & 7:00pm

Sunday, July 27th at 3:00pm

Cast Golden Ticket

Friday, August 1st at 7:00pm

Saturday, August 2nd at 2:00pm and 7:00pm

Sunday, August 3rd at 3:00pm

Tickets to CCT's Summer Show are $15. Seating is general admission.

Performances will be held at CA Johnson High School 2219 Barhamville Rd, Columbia, SC 29204.

Production Staff

Director: Sadie Carr

Music Director: Anna Swearingen

Choreographer: Erica Cooper

Stage Manager: Tobias Shaw

2025 Fall Mainstage Auditions

Wed, 28 May 2025 12:32:47 GMT

What You Need to Know

CCT is happy to announce Mainstage Auditions for our 21st season’s fall productions! We were founded as a professional theatre for young audiences (TYA) that uses paid adult actors to perform for families, young audiences, and school groups.

Who: Auditions are open to any adults and teens who will be 15 years old by August 2025.

Where: The Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia (1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169)

When: Sunday, June 22nd, 2025 @ 3-5pm or June 23rd, 2025 @6-8pm

Auditions are drop-in style so you may attend at any time during those hours. **Please plan on being there at least 15 minutes before the end time.**

Audition Requirements

Please complete this Google Form noting which shows you are interested in/available for.
Please prepare 24-32 bars of a Broadway-style song sung a cappella
You may also be asked to read sides from each show during the audition
If you have a headshot and resume, please bring hard copies to your audition.

**If you are unable to make an in-person audition, please submit the Google Form and send a video recording of your song selection and a 60-second contemporary comedic monologue to jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.com by June 23rd.

Generally, rehearsals run weeknights from 6pm-9pm 5 weeks prior to opening. Pay is between $25 and $50 per show depending on experience and show location.

Questions? Check out this Audition Factoid (pdf file).

Our Fall 2025 Mainstage Season

Curious George: The Golden Meatball

Based on the books by Margret and H. A. Rey

SEPTEMBER 2025 (three-week run, will be double cast)

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical

Based on the novel by Barbara Robinson

DECEMBER 2025

Please contact CCT Director of Operations Sadie Carr with any further questions at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

Check Out Photos from past Mainstage Seasons!

Wicked of Oz: A Comic Fable Field Trips

Sun, 04 May 2025 14:25:12 GMT

About the Show

Hold on to your broomsticks - Wicked of Oz: A Comic Fable is flying in with laughs, heart, and a whole new twist on the land of Oz! In this original production by CCT's Spaghetti and Meatball Players, the classic world of yellow brick roads and ruby slippers gets turned upside down when a mischievous new character stirs up chaos across Munchkinland, the Emerald City, and beyond. Packed with zany humor, unexpected heroes, and incredible talent from the CCT Mainstage cast, this one-of-a-kind adventure is perfect for young audiences and their grown-ups. It’s Oz like you’ve never seen it before - silly, surprising, and sensationally fun!

Showtimes & Pricing

Thursday, July 10, 2025 at 10:00am

Friday, July 11, 2025 at 10:00am

Admission is $7.50 per student. One free adult ticket is provided for every ten students in attendance. Reservations require a minimum of 10 tickets. Performances will be held at Sandhills Library Auditorium (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223).

About CCT Field Trips

Please read the field trip performance and conditions sheet here before booking your field trip. This document contains all the additional details you'll need.

Wicked of Oz: A Comic Fable

Sun, 04 May 2025 13:32:31 GMT

About the Show

Hold on to your broomsticks - Wicked of Oz: A Comic Fable is flying in with laughs, heart, and a whole new twist on the land of Oz! In this original Columbia Children’s Theatre production, the classic world of yellow brick roads and ruby slippers gets turned upside down when a mischievous new character stirs up chaos across Munchkinland, the Emerald City, and beyond. Packed with zany humor, unexpected heroes, and incredible talent from the CCT Mainstage cast, this one-of-a-kind adventure is perfect for young audiences and their grown-ups. It’s Oz like you’ve never seen it before - silly, surprising, and sensationally fun!

Showtimes & Pricing

Showtimes
Saturday, July 12, 2025 at 2:00 pm

Sunday, July 13, 2025 at 3:00 pm

Pricing

Tickets to Wicked of Oz: A Comic Fable are $15 general admission.

Location

Performances will be held at Richland Library Sandhills (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223).

Disney's Winnie the Pooh KIDS

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 14:10:25 GMT

About the Show

The PB&J Players are proud to invite you to their spring production of Disney's Winnie the Pooh KIDS !

When Winnie the Pooh’s quest for honey takes an unexpected turn, he and his friends—Tigger, Piglet, Rabbit, Owl, and more—must work together to rescue Christopher Robin from the mysterious Backson. Along the way, they discover the true meaning of friendship, teamwork, and of course, sharing snacks!

Filled with familiar songs and lovable characters, Disney’s Winnie the Pooh KIDS is a magical experience for audiences of all ages. Don’t miss this charming tale live on stage—get your tickets today!

Showtimes

Performances will be held March 28-30 at Brookland Cayce High School (1300 State St, Cayce, SC 29033).

Friday, March 28th at 7:00 pm
Saturday, March 29th at 2:00 pm
Saturday, March 29th at 7:00 pm
Sunday, March 30th at 3:00 pm

Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka Auditions

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 23:26:41 GMT

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who: Actors in grades 1-12 (24-25 school year).

When:

Friday, May 9th @ 6:00-7:30pm (grades 1-6) and 7:30-9:00pm (grades 7-12)
Saturday, May 10th @ 3:00-4:30pm (grades 1-6) and 4:30-6:00pm (grades 7-12)
Monday, May 12th @ 6-8pm Callbacks (we will let actors who are called back know via email after their audition session if they need to return for callbacks on this date)

*If you need to swap dates after you submit the form or cannot make it to the dates/times listed below, please contact Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Where: Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia (1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169).

*Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. Parents will drop their actors off after check-in and come back at the end time listed above.

Rehearsals will begin May 21st, 2025.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file) carefully. **By signing the audition form, you agree to adhere to all listed requirements on this sheet.
Auditionees in grades 7-12 will be asked to perform a selection of a song from the show. Audition Selections will be sent out via email.
Actors will also learn a short dance routine and may be asked to read lines from the script at each audition session
Actors only need to attend one audition session unless they are asked to return for a callback audition (May 12th).
Please wear closed-toed shoes and clothing suited for movement (NO CROCS, please!).

IMPORTANT INFO

The cast list will be sent out via email by Friday, May 16th @5pm. Here you will accept or decline your actor’s role.
Rehearsals begin May 21st. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons at the Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center. The rehearsal schedule will be released after the first rehearsal.
There will be a mandatory parent meeting at the first rehearsal for each cast on May 21st (Cast Pure Imagination) and May 22nd (Cast Golden Ticket) at 6pm. The meeting will take approximately 30 minutes.
Participation fees and retail items will be available for purchase on our retail page on May 16th.
Willy Wonka will have two casts, one performing a 4-show run each weekend at CA Johnson High School .
July 28-30 (CAST PURE IMAGINATION)
July 25th @7pm
July 26th @ 2pm and 7pm
July 27th @ 3pm
August 4-6 (CAST GOLDEN TICKET)
August 1st @7pm
August 2nd @ 2pm and 7pm
August 3rd @ 3pm
There will be no conflicts accepted for either cast July 14th-19th. There will also be no conflicts for CAST PURE IMAGINATION July 21st-27th and no conflicts for CAST GOLDEN TICKET July 28th-August 3rd. CCT will be closed June 28th-July 6th.

*Any actor with more than 10 conflicts with rehearsals may not be considered for a role unless conflicts are negotiated. Conflicts must be finalized by audition date. Additional conflicts will be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Conflicts listed on audition form will be honored as excused absences, and unexcused absences may result in an actor being cut from songs and/or scenes or recast.

About the Show

Director: Sadie Carr

Music Director: Anna Swearingen

Choreographer: Erica Cooper

Stage Manager: Tobias Shaw

CCT’s YouTheatre Ensembles will combine this summer to stage this production!

The delicious adventures experienced by Charlie Bucket on his visit to Willy Wonka's mysterious chocolate factory light up the stage in this captivating adaptation of Roald Dahl's fantastical tale. Featuring the enchanting songs from the 1971 film starring Gene Wilder and new songs by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley, Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka is a scrumdidilyumptious musical guaranteed to delight everyone's sweet tooth. Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka follows enigmatic candy manufacturer, Willy Wonka, as he stages a contest by hiding golden tickets in five of his scrumptious candy bars. Whomever comes up with these tickets will win a free tour of the Wonka factory, as well as a lifetime supply of candy. Four of the five winning children are insufferable brats: the fifth is a likable young lad named Charlie Bucket, who takes the tour in the company of his equally amiable grandfather. The children must learn to follow Mr. Wonka's rules in the factory... or suffer the consequences.

Questions? Please contact CCT Director of Operations, Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.co m

Pooh Auditions

Sat, 11 Jan 2025 02:16:41 GMT

About the Show

Auditions are now open for CCT’s PB&J Players' spring production of Disney's Winnie the Pooh KIDS! This heartwarming show brings the beloved world of A.A. Milne and Disney’s 2011 animated feature to life on stage.

Welcome to the Hundred Acre Wood, where Winnie the Pooh’s quest for honey turns into an unexpected adventure! Along the way, he teams up with Tigger, Piglet, Rabbit, Owl, and the rest of the gang to rescue Christopher Robin from the mysterious Backson. Through their journey, they discover the true meaning of friendship, teamwork—and the importance of sharing snacks.

Disney's Winnie the Pooh KIDS is a delightful show filled with familiar characters and songs that young performers love to bring to life. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this enchanting tale—register for auditions today!

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who: Actors in grades 1-6 (24-25 school year).

When: Sunday, February 2nd from 3-5pm OR Monday, February 3rd from 6:30-8:30pm.

Where: The Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia: 1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169 (entrance faces Batchelor St. & The Palmetto Grand Lodge)

Steps to Take

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file) **By signing the audition form, you agree to adhere to all listed requirements on this sheet.
Auditionees do not need to prepare anything for auditions, come as you are! During auditions, actors will be asked to learn an excerpt of a song, a short dance combination, and will possibly read some lines from the script. Please wear closed-toed shoes and clothes you can move in.
Actors only need to attend one audition session unless asked to return for a callback audition.

After the Audition

The cast list will be sent out via email by Friday, February 7th @5pm. Here you will accept or decline your actor’s role.
There is a one time participation fee of $125 ($250 max per family). There are a limited number of scholarships available.
Rehearsals begin February 18th . Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. The rehearsal schedule will be released after the first rehearsal.
There will be a mandatory parent/actor meeting before the first rehearsal at 6pm. The meeting shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes.
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning March 17th .
Performances will be March 28-30 at Brookland-Cayce High School (link opens in Google Maps).
March 28th @7pm
March 29th @2pm
March 29th @7pm
March 30th @3pm

Questions? Email CCT Director of Operations Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Pricing

There is no cast to audition, but participating young performers are required to pay a $125 participation fee by the first rehearsal in order to join us for Disney's Winnie the Pooh Kids.

Questions? Email CCT Director of Operations Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Production Staff

Director: Sadie Carr

Music Director: Anna Swearingen

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Katie Ohnesorge

A Letter from CCT Artistic Direct Jerry Stevenson

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 13:48:48 GMT

CCT Community,

I’m reaching out with an urgent message about the future of Columbia Children’s Theatre.

Last year, the closure of Richland Mall left CCT without a home. This unexpected blow required us to find a new space quickly, bringing unforeseen financial challenges. Still recovering from the impact of COVID - the effects were significant.

Although we’ve taken significant steps to restructure the organization and strengthen our financial footing, the costs of this transition have placed us in a critical position.

Columbia Children’s Theatre must raise $50,000 by January 1st to continue bringing theatre magic to children and families in our community. Without these funds, the future of CCT is uncertain.

Let me reassure you that our current programming commitments, including ticketed performances, classes, and field trips, will be honored. Our immediate goal is to ensure we can complete our 20th season while building a foundation that will allow CCT to thrive long-term.

Here are three ways you can help CCT during this pivotal time:

For 20 years, CCT has inspired thousands of young people, opening doors to creativity, confidence, and connection through the power of theatre.

If you believe in the impact of our work, now is the time to lend your support. You can make your gift here.

Thank you for helping us keep CCT’s lights on for the next generation.

With gratitude,

Jerry Stevenson

Artistic Director

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr. Tickets

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 12:05:13 GMT

About the Show

Columbia Children's Theatre and the PB&J Players are proud to present Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr.!

Join us for this heartwarming holiday classic, based on the beloved television special that has been bringing joy to families for decades. Follow the adventures of Rudolph, a reindeer with a glowing red nose, as he overcomes adversity and learns the value of being unique.

Featuring all your favorite characters, from Hermey the elf who dreams of being a dentist, to the courageous Yukon Cornelius and the lovable misfits from the Island of Misfit Toys, this production is filled with music, laughter, and holiday spirit that will delight audiences of all ages.

Come celebrate the season with Rudolph as he discovers that what makes you different is what makes you special!

Showtimes

Performances will be held November 22-24 at Brookland Cayce High School (1300 State St, Cayce, SC 29033).

Friday, November 22nd at 7:00 pm
Saturday, November 23rd at 2:00 pm
Saturday, November 23rd at 7:00 pm
Sunday, November 24th at 3:00 pm

Pippin

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 12:44:44 GMT

About the Show

The CCTeens are proud to invite you to a production of Pippin !

Heir to the Frankish throne, the young prince Pippin is in search of the secret to true happiness and fulfillment. He seeks it in the glories of the battlefield, the temptations of the flesh and the intrigues of political power (after disposing of his father, King Charlemagne the Great). In the end, Pippin finds that happiness lies not in extraordinary endeavors, but rather in the unextraordinary moments that happen every day.

Showtimes

Performances will be held October 18th-20th at the new Lexington 2 Performing Arts Center.

Friday, October 18th at 7:00 pm
Saturday, October 19th at 2:00 pm
Saturday, October 19th at 7:00 pm
Sunday, October 20th at 3:00 pm

Rudolph Auditions

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 22:08:45 GMT

Notice: Sunday's auditions are now virtual due to flooding from the hurricane. To secure your audition, you must email Director of Operations Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com by 6:30pm on September 30th.

About the Show

Young performers grades 1-6 are invited to join the PB&J Players for our YouTheatre production of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr!

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr. brings to life the classic tale of Rudolph, the young reindeer who overcomes adversity with his glowing red nose. This heartwarming story follows Rudolph as he faces challenges and learns to embrace what makes him different. Along the way, he meets memorable characters like Hermey the Elf, who dreams of becoming a dentist, and Yukon Cornelius, the daring prospector. Together, they embark on an adventure that ultimately leads Rudolph to discover his true worth and how his unique trait can light the way for others.

This production, featuring young performers from grades 1-6, captures the magic of the holiday season with catchy songs, colorful characters, and an inspiring message about acceptance and the power of kindness. It's a story that resonates with audiences of all ages, reminding us that being different is something to celebrate. Whether you're revisiting this timeless tale or experiencing it for the first time, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer J r. is sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday season.

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who:

Actors in grades 1-6 (24-25 school year).

When:

Sunday's auditions are now virtual due to flooding from the hurricane. To secure your audition, you must email Director of Operations Sadie Carr by 6:30pm on September 30th.

Where:

The Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia: 1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169 (entrance faces Batchelor St. & The Palmetto Grand Lodge) Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately 2 hours. Parents will drop their actors off after check-in and come back at the end time listed above.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file) . By signing the audition form, you agree to adhere to all listed requirements on this sheet.
Auditionees do not need to prepare anything for auditions, come as you are! During auditions, actors will be asked to learn an excerpt of a song, a short dance combination, and will possibly read some lines from the script. Please wear closed-toed shoes and clothes you can move in.
Actors only need to attend one audition session unless asked to return for a callback audition.

After the audition:

The cast list will be sent out via email by Friday, October 4th @5pm. Here you will accept or decline your actor’s role.
Rehearsals begin October 7th. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. The rehearsal schedule will be released after the first rehearsal.
There will be a mandatory parent/actor meeting before the first rehearsal at 6pm. The meeting shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes.
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning November 10th.
Performances will be November 22-24 at Brookland-Cayce High School (link opens in Google Maps).
November 22nd at 7pm
November 23rd at 2pm
November 23rd at 7pm
November 24th at 3pm

Pricing:

There is no cost to audition, but participating young performers are required to pay a $125 participation ($250 max per family) fee by the first rehearsal in order to join us for Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Jr. There are a limited number of scholarships available.

Questions?

Email CCT Director of Operations Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Production Staff

Director: Jerry Stevenson

Music Director: Anna Swearingen

Choreographer: Rachel Brown

Stage Manager: Liv Moody

Pippin Auditions

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 13:24:05 GMT

About the Show

Young performers grades 7-12 are invited to join the CCTeens for our YouTheatre production of Pippin!

With an infectiously unforgettable score from four-time Grammy winner, three-time Oscar winner and musical theatre giant, Stephen Schwartz, Pippin is the story of one young man's journey to be extraordinary. Winner of four 2013 Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival, this updated circus-inspired version of Pippin continues to captivate and appeal to the young at heart throughout the world. Heir to the Frankish throne, the young prince Pippin is in search of the secret to true happiness and fulfillment. He seeks it in the glories of the battlefield, the temptations of the flesh and the intrigues of political power (after disposing of his father, King Charlemagne the Great).

In the end, though, Pippin finds that happiness lies not in extraordinary endeavors, but rather in the unextraordinary moments that happen every day. Equally poignant as a black box production or as a splashy, spectacle-driven extravaganza, Pippin's message is universal and will connect with audiences across the age spectrum.

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who: Actors in grades 7-12 (24-25 school year)

When: Auditions will be held on Sunday, August 25th from 2-4pm & Monday, August 26th from 6-8pm.

Where: CCT’s space inside The Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia. 1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169 (entrance faces Batchelor St. & The Palmetto Grand Lodge)

Steps to Take

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file) **By signing the audition form, you agree to adhere to all listed requirements on this sheet.
Auditionees will be asked to perform one song at auditions from the following selections:
“War is Science” (pdf file)
“I Guess I’ll Miss the Man” (pdf file)
“Spread a Little Sunshine” (pdf file)
“Simple Joys” (pdf file)
“Morning Glow” (pdf file)
“Theo’s Corner” (pdf file)
Actors will also learn a short dance routine and may be asked to read lines from the script at each audition session
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition. *Please wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes to auditions (no Crocs, please!)

After the Audition

The cast list will be sent out via email by Friday, August 30th @5pm. Here you will accept or decline your role.
There is a one time participation fee of $125 ($250 max per family) due by the first rehearsal. There are a limited number of scholarships available.
Participation fees and retail items will be available for purchase on our retail page on August 30th.
Rehearsals begin Tuesday, September 3rd with our read-thru from 6-8pm. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. The rehearsal schedule will be released after the first rehearsal.
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning October 7th.
Performances will be held October 18th-20th at the new Lexington 2 Performing Arts Center.
October 18th @7pm
October 19th @2pm
October 19th @7pm
October 20th @3pm

Pricing

There is no cast to audition, but participating young performers are required to pay a $125 participation fee by the first rehearsal in order to join us for Pippin.

Questions? Email CCT Director of Operations Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Production Staff

Director/Music Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Pete the Cat: Field Trip

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 19:56:24 GMT

About the Show

For Pete the Cat, life is an adventure no matter where you wind up. So the minute the groovy blue cat meets The Biddles, he gets the whole family rocking. That is, except for young Jimmy Biddle, the most organized second grader on planet Earth.But when Jimmy draws a blank in art class during the last week of school, it turns out Pete is the perfect pal to help him out. Together, they set out on a mission to help Jimmy conquer second grade art, and along the way, they both learn a little something new about inspiration. Join Jimmy and Pete on an adventure of friendship, all the way to Paris and back in a VW Bus! This production features music by Will Aronson, with book and lyrics by Sarah Hammond.

Showtimes & Pricing

Wednesday April, 30 2025 at 9:15 SOLD OUT

Wednesday April, 30 2024 at 11:00 SOLD OUT

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 9:15 SOLD OUT

Thursday, May 1, 2025 at 11:00 SOLD OUT

Friday, May 2, 2025 at 9:15 SOLD OUT

Friday, May 2, 2025 at 11:00 SOLD OUT

Admission is $7.50 per student. One free adult ticket is provided for every ten students in attendance. Reservations require a minimum of 10 tickets. Performances will be held at Harbison Theatre (7300 College St, Irmo, SC 29063).

About CCT Field Trips

Please read the field trip performance and conditions sheet here before booking your field trip. This document contains all the additional details you'll need.

Each field trip opportunity includes a study guide with standards-based material to help your students make deeper connections between the stage and the classroom. Each study guide includes:

A theatre career guide that helps students better understand how a theatre runs and what opportunities are availabe to them.
A theatre etiquette guide and key terms list that expand student’s cultural literacy and teach them how to think and talk about the theatre.
Theatre Games that any teacher can run. These games help students better understand what it means to perform and develop a deeper appreciation for what they are seeing on stage.
Discussion activities that help students analyze and contextualize the story that they see on stage.
A standards-based design that allows you to seamlessly weave the transformative power of live theatre into your lesson plans.

A Christmas Carol: Field Trip

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 19:49:14 GMT

About the Show

Experience the magic of the holidays with Columbia Children's Theatre's enchanting mainstage production of Radio City's A Christmas Carol ! This timeless tale comes to life with dazzling performances, vibrant costumes, and stunning sets, providing an unforgettable experience for your students. Perfectly tailored for school groups, our production offers a unique opportunity to bring literature to life, sparking students' imaginations while immersing them in the rich tradition of Charles Dickens' classic story. Book your field trip today and give your students a memorable cultural experience that blends education and entertainment seamlessly. This production features lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, with book and book and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and Mike Ockrent.

Showtimes & Pricing

Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 9:15

Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 11:00 (Spots now available!)

Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 9:15 (SOLD OUT)

Thursday, December 5, 2024 at 11:00 (SOLD OUT)

Friday, December 6, 2024 at 9:15 (SOLD OUT)

Friday, December 6, 2024 at 11:00 (SOLD OUT)

Admission is $7.50 per student. One free adult ticket is provided for every ten students in attendance. Reservations require a minimum of 10 tickets. Performances will be held at Harbison Theatre (7300 College St, Irmo, SC 29063).

About CCT Field Trips

Please read the field trip performance and conditions sheet here before booking your field trip. This documents contains all the additional details you'll need.

Each field trip opportunity includes a study guide with standards-based material to help your students make deeper connections between the stage and the classroom. Each study guide includes:

A theatre career guide that helps students better understand how a theatre runs and what opportunities are availabe to them.
A theatre etiquette guide and key terms list that expand student’s cultural literacy and teach them how to think and talk about the theatre.
Theatre Games that any teacher can run. These games help students better understand what it means to perform and develop a deeper appreciation for what they are seeing on stage.
Discussion activities that help students analyze and contextualize the story that they see on stage.
A standards-based design that allows you to seamlessly weave the transformative power of live theatre into your lesson plans.

Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: Field Trip

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 19:44:06 GMT

About the Show

Experience the whimsical fun and heartfelt lessons of Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed at Columbia Children's Theatre!

Follow the curious and charming Wilbur, a naked mole rat who dares to be different by wearing clothes! With catchy songs, vibrant sets, and a story that celebrates individuality and self-expression, this show promises to enchant audiences of all ages. Bring your children and watch their faces light up with joy and wonder as they embark on this unforgettable adventure.

Perfect for a first-time theatre experience, Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed is a heartwarming reminder that it's okay to be unique. Don't miss out on this magical journey that encourages kids to embrace who they are! This production features music by Deborah Wicks La Puma and book and lyrics by Mo Willems.

Showtimes & Pricing

Thursday, February 13, 2024 at 9:15

Thursday, February 13, 2024 at 10:45 (SOLD OUT)

Friday, February 14, 2024 at 9:15

Friday, February 14, 2024 at 10:45

About CCT Field Trips

Please read the field trip performance and conditions sheet here before booking your field trip. This document contains all the additional details you'll need.

Each field trip opportunity includes a study guide with standards-based material to help your students make deeper connections between the stage and the classroom. Each study guide includes:

A theatre career guide that helps students better understand how a theatre runs and what opportunities are availabe to them.
A theatre etiquette guide and key terms list that expand student’s cultural literacy and teach them how to think and talk about the theatre.
Theatre Games that any teacher can run. These games help students better understand what it means to perform and develop a deeper appreciation for what they are seeing on stage.
Discussion activities that help students analyze and contextualize the story that they see on stage.
A standards-based design that allows you to seamlessly weave the transformative power of live theatre into your lesson plans.

Frog and Toad: Field Trips

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 19:16:39 GMT

About the Show

Step into the whimsical world of A Year With Frog and Toad at Columbia Children's Theatre! This heartwarming musical follows the adventures of two best friends, Frog and Toad, as they journey through the seasons, celebrating the joys of friendship and life's simple pleasures. Our talented cast brings these beloved characters to life with extraordinary performances, capturing the humor, charm, and touching moments of Arnold Lobel's classic tales. Known for its enchanting music, delightful storytelling, and captivating choreography, this production is perfect for audiences of all ages! This show features music by Robert Reale with books and lyrics by Willie Reale.

Showtimes & Pricing

Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 9:15 (SOLD OUT)

Thursday, September 19, 2024 at 10:45 (SOLD OUT)

Friday, September 20, 2024 at 9:15 (SOLD OUT)

Friday, September 20, 2024 at 10:45

Admission is $7.50 per student. One free adult ticket is provided for every ten students in attendance. Reservations require a minimum of 10 tickets. Performances will be held at Sandhills Library Auditorium (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223).

About CCT Field Trips

Please read the field trip performance and conditions sheet here before booking your field trip. This document contains all the additional details you'll need.

Each field trip opportunity includes a study guide with standards-based material to help your students make deeper connections between the stage and the classroom. Each study guide includes:

A theatre career guide that helps students better understand how a theatre runs and what opportunities are availabe to them.
A theatre etiquette guide and key terms list that expand student’s cultural literacy and teach them how to think and talk about the theatre.
Theatre Games that any teacher can run. These games help students better understand what it means to perform and develop a deeper appreciation for what they are seeing on stage.
Discussion activities that help students analyze and contextualize the story that they see on stage.
A standards-based design that allows you to seamlessly weave the transformative power of live theatre into your lesson plans.

Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 18:03:31 GMT

About the Show

Experience the whimsical fun and heartfelt lessons of Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience at Columbia Children's Theatre!

Showtimes & Pricing

Showtimes
Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 2:00 pm

Sunday, February 16, 2025 at 3:00 pm

Pricing

Tickets to Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience are $15 general admission.

Location

Performances will be held at the Sandhills Library (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223).

Is this your first CCT Mainstage Show?

Columbia Children's Theatre Mainstage productions are a unique experience for young audiences. There's an extra magic in seeing a live story performed by professional actors, bringing top-tier talent and unforgettable energy to the stage. These aren’t just shows—they’re CCT Mainstage productions, crafted to inspire joy, wonder, and a lifelong love of theatre.

Take a look at photos from past performances below and see the magic for yourself!

A Year with Frog and Toad

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 17:54:49 GMT

About the Show

Showtimes & Pricing

Showtimes
Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 2:00 pm

Sunday, September 22, 2024 at 3:00 pm

Pricing

Tickets to A Year with Frog & Toad are $15 general admission.

Location

Performances will be held at the Sandhills Library (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223).

Seussical

Sun, 19 May 2024 17:51:31 GMT

About the Show

Experience the joy and wonder of Seussical , where the colorful world of Dr. Seuss leaps from the page to the stage in a spectacular display of theatrical brilliance. Perfect for a night out with the family or a fun-filled outing with friends, this musical delight is packed with catchy tunes and enchanting performances that will leave you humming and smiling long after the curtain falls. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary journey through the Seussian universe—get your tickets now and let your imagination soar!

Note: This is a full production that runs approximately 2.5 hours with one 15 minute intermission.

Showtimes

Cast 1

Friday, July 26, 2024 at 7:00 pm

Saturday, July 27, 2024 at 2:00 pm

Saturday, July 27, 2024 at 7:00 pm

Sunday, July 28, 2024 at 3:00 pm

Cast 2

Friday, August 2, 2024 at 7:00 pm

Saturday, August 3, 2024 at 2:00 pm

Saturday, August 3, 2024 at 7:00 pm

Sunday, August 4, 2024 at 3:00 pm

Tickets to CCT's Summer Show are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Seating is general admission.

Performances will be held at CA Johnson High School 2219 Barhamville Rd, Columbia, SC 29204.

Support this Production!

This summer Seussical is coming to CCT and we need your support!

At Columbia Children’s Theatre we keep the prices as low as possible so more young people can have access to the transformative power of live theatre. We stand by that decision, but it means that program fees like tickets, registrations, and classes cover just 60% of the revenue needed to run the organization. For the remaining 40% we depend on our community.

Check out opportunities to support the production below!

Production Staff

Director: Debra Leopard

Music Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographers: Lisa Sendler & Rachel Brown

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Zombie Prom

Sun, 05 May 2024 20:33:25 GMT

About the Show

Join CCT and Freeway Music for this joint production of Zombie Prom!

"Zombie Prom" is a quirky yet charming production, blending 1950s nostalgia with a touch of the supernatural. Against a backdrop reminiscent of high school corridors and vintage diners, the story unfolds with Jonny, a rebellious teenager harboring a newfound zombie identity, and Toffee, the sweetheart caught in the middle. With catchy tunes and playful choreography, the show navigates themes of love and acceptance amidst the uproarious antics of its ensemble cast.

"Zombie Prom" captivates audiences with its infectious energy and comedic performances. From the synchronized shuffling of the undead chorus to the heartfelt ballads sung by the leads, each moment is infused with campy humor and nostalgic charm. Set against a backdrop of retro aesthetics and ghoulish accents, the production transports viewers to a world where acceptance comes in all forms, leaving them with smiles on their faces and memorable melodies in their hearts.

Showtimes & Pricing

Showtimes
Friday, May 24, 2024 at 7:00 pm

Saturday, May 25, 2024 at 2:00 pm

Saturday, May 25, 2024 at 7:00 pm

Tickets

Tickets to Zombie Prom are $15 general admission. Get yours here.

Location

Meadow Glen Middle School Auditorium (440 Ginny Lane, Lexington, SC)

2024 Mainstage Auditions

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 02:12:36 GMT

What You Need to Know

CCT is happy to announce Mainstage Auditions for our 20th season! We were founded as a professional theatre for young audiences (TYA) that uses paid adult actors to perform for families, young audiences, and school groups.

Who: Auditions are open to any adults and teens who will be 15 years old by August 2024.

Where: The Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia (1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169)

When: Sunday, May 19th, 2024 @6-8pm and Monday, May 20th, 2024 @6-8pm

Auditions are drop-in style so you may attend at any time during those hours.

**Please plan on being there at least 15 minutes before the end time.

Audition Requirements

Please complete this Google Form noting which shows you are interested in/available for.
Please prepare 24-32 bars of a Broadway-style song sung a cappella
You may also be asked to read sides from each show during the audition
If you have a headshot and resume, please bring hard copies to your audition.

Generally, rehearsals run weeknights from 6pm-9pm 5 weeks prior to opening. Pay is between $25 and $50 per show depending on experience and show location.

Questions? Check out this Audition Factoid (pdf file).

2024-25 Mainstage Shows

A Year With Frog & Toad

Based on the books by Arnold Lobel

SEPTEMBER 2024 (three-week run, will be double cast)

A Christmas Carol (Radio City version)

Based on the story by Charles Dickens

DECEMBER 2024

Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience

Based on the book by Mo Willems

FEBRUARY 2025

Pete The Cat

Based on the books by Kimberly & James Dean

APRIL 2025

Commedia-Style Production

Title TBD

JUNE 2025

Please contact CCT Director of Operations with any further questions at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com.

Check Out Photos from the 22/23 Mainstage Season!

Camp Kidding Around 2025 With CCT

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 18:23:18 GMT

Camp Kidding Around With CCT!

Camp Description

This creative play camp is perfect for any child who loves acting, singing, dancing or just having a good time. Taught by Columbia Children’s Theatre’s specially trained teaching artists, Camp Kidding Around helps students with public speaking, reading comprehension, and creative problem solving.

Details

Who can register: Students in grades 2-8 (24-25 school year)

When: Camp runs June 23-27, 2025 from 8:30am – 5:00pm

Where: Brookland-Lakeview Empowerment Center (1218 Batchelor St. W. Columbia)

Why: Because kids “just wanna have fun!”

Pricing: This program is free and open to the public but registration is required. Be sure to register below!

Attention! This program is limited to 20 registrations per week on a first come first serve basis. Your registration is not complete until CCT has reached out to you by email to confirm.

Summer Soar 2026

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 18:04:40 GMT

Summer Soar Fantasy Fun Camp!

Camp Description

Columbia Children's Theatre is proud to offer Summer Soar Fantasy Fun Camp in partnership with Richland One!

This camp is a perfect introduction to the world of theatre for early learners. Campers will explore the basics of creative expression, storytelling, creative movement and pantomime.

Details

Who can register: Rising 2-5 graders

Which Session is This: June 23 – June 25, 2026 (Session IV)

Session 1 meets from 8:30-12:00 at South Kilbourne Elementary

Session 2 meets from 1:00-4:30 at Satchel Ford Elementary

2024 Summer Show Audition Workshop

Sat, 30 Mar 2024 13:28:44 GMT

About the Workshop

Thinking of auditioning for CCT’s summer show, Seussical this summer? Auditions can be intimidating, so we are here to help our young actors prepare for the summer show audition process.

Taught by new CCT Artistic Associate, Debra Leopard, this workshop takes students through the audition process from beginning to end. Students learn how to prepare for an audition, overcome stage fright, gain confidence, and stand out in the crowd. Students will get the chance to practice auditioning including singing, choreography, and cold reading from the script. They will get into the mind of a veteran director/actress to gain an understanding of what directors look for in auditions including tips and techniques.

This workshop is a great opportunity for young actors to be fully prepared for the audition process and will help the young actors be their absolute best at an audition. Young actors will also get the chance to meet the staff who will be working on the show this summer, including the Director (Debra Leopard), Music Director (Paul Lindley), Choreographers (Lisa Sendler and Rachel Brown), and Stage Manager (Sadie Carr).

Details

Who: Young actors in grades 1-12. No prior acting experience required and first-timers are encouraged to attend.

When: April 28th, 2024

Grades 1st-6th (23-24 School Year): 3:00pm-4:30pm
Grades 7th-12th (23-24 School Year): 5:00pm-6:30pm

Where: Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center (1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169)

Cost: $25

P.S. Mark your calendars! Auditions for Seussical will be May 11, 13th, & 14th, 2024. More info available soon.

Seussical Auditions

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 15:21:37 GMT

About the Show

This summer CCT’s YouTheatre Ensembles are joining forces for a single production of Seussical!

"Seussical" is more than just a musical; it's a journey through the vibrant lands of the Jungle of Nool, the dazzling Circus McGurkus, and the tiny, unseen world of the Whos. Watch as Horton discovers a speck of dust harboring the tiny Whos and vows to protect them against all odds, all while facing the challenge of guarding an abandoned egg. Through trials and tribulations, the themes of friendship, loyalty, and community shine through, brought to life by a cast of characters as diverse and colorful as Seuss's stories themselves.

This production isn't just for the audience; it's an open invitation for performers of all ages to dive into the imaginative world of Dr. Seuss. With roles that span the whimsical spectrum of Seuss's universe, actors have the chance to explore a range of emotions and stories!

An added twist includes an alternate orchestration for a female Cat in the Hat, ensuring that "Seussical" is a musical that embraces diversity and innovation in its casting and performance. Whether you're a budding actor, a behind-the-scenes magician, or someone who cherishes the timeless stories of Dr. Seuss, "Seussical" offers a unique opportunity to be part of a production that celebrates the joy of imagination, the strength of community, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship.

What You Need to Know:

Who: Actors in grades 1-12 (23-24 school year). *Unfortunately, those who have just finished Kindergarten this school year are not eligible to audition.

When: There are three relevant dates:

Saturday, May 11th @ 2:00-3:30pm (grades 1-6) and 3:30-5:00pm (grades 7-12)
Monday, May 13th @ 6:00-7:30pm (grades 1-6) and 7:30-9pm (grades 7-12)
Tuesday, May 14th @ 6-8pm Callbacks (we will let actors who are called back know via email after their audition session if they need to return for callbacks on this date)

**If you need to swap dates after you submit the form or cannot make it to the dates/times listed below, please contact Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Where: Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia (1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169).

*Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. Parents will drop their actors off after check-in and come back at the end time listed above.

Rehearsals will begin May 21st, 2024.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file) carefully. **By signing the audition form, you agree to adhere to all listed requirements on this sheet.
Auditionees in grades 7-12 will be asked to perform one song from the following selections (pdf files):
All for You (mm. 41-59)
Amayzing Mayzie (mm. 46-69)
How Lucky You Are Mezzo (mm. 5-29)
How Lucky You Are Tenor (mm. 5-29)
Solla Sollew (mm. 12-29)
Actors will also learn a short dance routine and may be asked to read lines from the script at each audition session
Actors only need to attend one audition session unless they are asked to return for a callback audition (May 14th).
Please wear closed-toed shoes and clothing suited for movement (NO CROCS, please!).

IMPORTANT INFO

The cast list will be sent out via email by Friday, May 17th @5pm. Here you will accept or decline your actor’s role.
Rehearsals begin May 21st. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. The rehearsal schedule will be released after the first rehearsal.
There will be a mandatory parent meeting at the first rehearsal for each cast on May 21st (CAST 1) and May 22nd (CAST 2) at 6pm. The meeting will take approximately 30 minutes.
Participation fees and retail items will be available for purchase on our retail page on May 17th.
Seussical will have two casts, one performing a 4-show run each weekend at CA Johnson High School.
July 28-30 (CAST 1)
July 26th @7pm
July 27th @ 2pm and 7pm
July 28th @ 3pm
August 4-6 (CAST 2)
August 2nd @7pm
August 3rd @ 2pm and 7pm
August 4th @ 3pm

There will be no conflicts accepted for either cast July 15th-21st. There will also be no conflicts for CAST 1 July 22nd-28th and no conflicts for CAST 2 July 29th-August 4th. CCT will be closed June 29th-July 7th.

Questions? Please contact CCT Director of Operations, Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Production Staff

Director: Debra Leopard

Music Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographers: Lisa Sendler & Rachel Brown

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Summer Show FAQ

Firebringer

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 20:11:16 GMT

About the Show

Join CCTeens as they present Firebringer !

At the dawn of humanity, one tribe of cave-people survives the many trials of prehistoric life under the wise leadership of Jemilla, The Peacemaker. Jemilla taught her people to express themselves, rather than bashing each others' heads with rocks and eating each others' babies. But one member of the tribe doesn't seem to fit in: Zazzalil. She's always trying to invent things to make life easier… for herself.

While out hatching her latest scheme, Zazzalil stumbles upon the most important discovery in history. One that will pit her tribe against wooly mammoths, saber-toothed tigers, and change the world forever. She'll travel from omega to alpha, and become… the Firebringer!

Firebringer is a comedy musical with music and lyrics by Meredith Stepien and Mark Swiderski and a book by Matt Lang, Nick Lang, and Brian Holden with additional writing by Stepien. It was the 10th staged show produced by StarKid Productions.

Showtimes

Performances will be held at CA Johnson High School (Link Opens in Google Maps) .

Saturday, March 23rd at 2:00 pm
Saturday, March 23rd at 7:00 pm
Sunday, March 24th at 3:00 pm

Production Team

Director/Music Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer : Rachel Brown

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Firebringer Auditions

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 13:43:46 GMT

About the Show

Join the CCTeens for our spring production of Firebringer: A New Stone Age Musical!

But one member of the tribe doesn't seem to fit in: Zazzalil. She's always trying to invent things to make life easier… for herself. While out hatching her latest scheme, Zazzalil stumbles upon the most important discovery in history. One that will pit her tribe against wooly mammoths, saber-toothed tigers, and change the world forever. She'll travel from omega to alpha, and become… the Firebringer!

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who: Actors in grades 9-12 (23-24 school year).

When: Auditions will be held on Sunday, January 28th from 6-8pm & Monday, January 29th from 6:30-8:30pm.

Where: CCT’s new space inside The Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia. 1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169 (entrance faces Batchelor St. & The Palmetto Grand Lodge)

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file) **By signing the audition form, you agree to adhere to all listed requirements on this sheet.
All auditioners should familiarize themselves with the following selection: We Got Work to Do (pdf file). *solos and ensemble parts will be divided up during the audition session, so familiarize yourself with the whole song
Additionally, those auditioning for the parts of Zazzalil and/or Jemilla may be asked to sing some of Together (pdf file).
Actors will also learn a short dance routine and may be asked to read lines from the script at each audition session
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition. *Please wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes to auditions (no Crocs, please!)

After the audition:

The cast list will be sent out via email by Friday, February 2nd @5pm. Here you will accept or decline your role.
There is a one time participation fee of $125 ($250 max per family). There are a limited number of scholarships available.
Participation fees and retail items will be available for purchase on our retail page on February 2nd.
Rehearsals begin Monday, February 5th with our read-thru from 6:30-8:30pm. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. The rehearsal schedule will be released after the first rehearsal.
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning March 11th.
Performances will be held March 23rd & 24th at a location TBA.
March 23rd @2pm
March 23rd @7pm
March 24th @3pm

Questions? Email CCT Director of Operations Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Production Staff

Director/Music Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Rachel Brown

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Beauty and the Beast Jr.

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 16:31:20 GMT

About the Show

This spring join CCT’s Entr'acte Ensemble as they present Beauty & the Beast Jr.!

Based on the original Broadway production that ran for over thirteen years and was nominated for nine Tony Awards, and the Academy Award-winning motion picture, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR. is a fantastic adaptation of the story of transformation and tolerance.

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR. features some of the most popular songs ever written by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman, along with new songs by Mr. Menken and Tim Rice.

The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity.

Showtimes

You have four great opportunities to see this show:

Friday, January 26th at 7:00pm
Saturday, January 27th at 2:00pm
Saturday, January 27th at 7:00pm
Sunday, January 28th at 3:00pm

Tickets to YouTheatre shows are $15. Seating is general admission. Performances will be held at Richland Northeast High School (7500 Brookfield Rd, Columbia, SC 29223)

Goosebumps The Musical

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 16:06:58 GMT

About the Show

Brooke and Zeke are thrilled to be starring in a mysterious show called The Phantom, and not the least bit frightened by the old legend that the play is cursed. But when strange, spooky messages start appearing, and a masked menace starts disrupting rehearsals, they begin to wonder: what if there really is a ghost haunting their school, determined to stop the show?! Prepare to get goosebumps as they race to solve the mystery in this thrilling—and chilling—new musical, based on the classic series by R.L. Stine.

Showtimes & Pricing

Showtimes
Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 2:00 pm

Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 6:00 pm

Pricing

This show is ticketed through Harbison Theatre. Tickets are $15 with discounts for students, seniors, and military personnel.

Location

Performances will be held at Harbison Theatre (7300 College St, Irmo, SC 29063)

Mad Libs Live!

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 16:02:09 GMT

About the Show

This truly interactive musical changes at every performance – thanks to you! Will GoGo get the girl? Will Geyser make new friends? Will Merrily come out of her shell? Will Virtuosa get out of the spotlight? And who will be the next Teen Superstars?? There is only one way to find out: Mad Libs Live!

Showtimes & Pricing

Showtimes

Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 10:30 am

Saturday, February 24, 2024 at 2:00 pm

Sunday, February 25, 2024 at 3:00 pm

Location

Mad Libs Live! will be performed at Richland Library Sandhills Auditorium (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223).

Pricing

Tickets to Mad Libs Live! are $15 general admission.

Beauty and the Beast Auditions

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 17:29:42 GMT

About the Show

This spring join CCT’s Entr'acte Ensemble as they present Beauty & the Beast Jr.!

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast JR. features some of the most popular songs ever written by Alan Menken and the late Howard Ashman, along with new songs by Mr. Menken and Tim Rice.

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who: Actors in grades 6-8 (23-24 school year).

When: Auditions will be held on Saturday, November 18th from 6-8pm & Monday, November 20th from 6-8pm.

Where: CCT’s new space at The Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia. 1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169 (entrance faces Batchelor St. & The Palmetto Grand Lodge)

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file) **By signing the audition form, you agree to adhere to all listed requirements on this sheet.
Auditionees will be asked to perform one song from the following selections (pdf files):
Belle
Gaston
Lumiere
Actors will also learn a short dance routine and may be asked to read lines from the script at each audition session
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition. *Please wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes to auditions (no Crocs, please!)

After the Audition:

The cast list will be sent out via email by Friday, December 1st @5pm. Here you will accept or decline your actor’s role.
There is a one time participation fee of $125 ($250 max per family). There are a limited number of scholarships available.
Participation fees and retail items will be available for purchase on our retail page on December 1st.
Rehearsals begin Monday, December 4th with our read-thru from 6-8pm. There will be a mandatory parent during the first rehearsal at 6pm. The meeting shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes.
Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. The rehearsal schedule will be released after the first rehearsal.
CCT will be closed December 20th-January 2nd for Winter Break, so we will not rehearse during that time.
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning January 15th.
Performances will be held January 26-28th at Richland Northeast High School
January 26th at 7:00pm
January 27th at 2:00pm
January 27th at 7:00pm
January 28th at 3:00pm

Questions? Email CCT Director of Operations Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Production Staff

Director: Julian Deleon

Music Director: Anna Swearingen

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Liv Moody

Finding Nemo Jr.

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 12:23:07 GMT

About the Show

This fall, join CCT’s PB&J Players as they present Disney’s Finding Nemo JR., a 60-minute musical adaptation of the beloved 2003 Pixar movie Finding Nemo, with new music by award-winning songwriting team Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez. Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean.

With the help of lovable characters such as optimistic Dory, laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves.

Featuring memorable songs such as “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food,” and “Go With the Flow,” Finding Nemo JR. brings a vibrant underwater world to life on stage in a story full of family, friendship, and adventure.

Showtimes

You have four great opportunities to see this show:

Friday, October 27th at 7:00pm
Saturday, October 28th at 2:00pm
Saturday, October 28th at 7:00pm
Sunday, October 29th at 3:00pm

Tickets to YouTheatre shows are $15. Seating is general admission. Performances will be held at Brookland-Cayce High School (Link Opens in Google Maps).

The Stinky Cheese Man

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 17:37:12 GMT

About the Show

Based on the award-winning picture book Stinky Cheese Man is a wild, irreverent collection of reimagined fairy tales from the author and illustrator of The True Story of the 3 Little Pigs!. It’s an extremely fun and funny laugh-aloud show for the whole family. Kids from ages 3 to 103 will just adore the hilarity!

A long time ago, people used to tell magical stories of wonder and enchantment. Those stories were called Fairy Tales. Those stories are not in this musical. The stories in this musical are Fairly Stupid Tales.

In this fourth wall-breaking show, youngsters will delight in the strange twists on familiar tales. From “The Stinky Cheese Man” to “Cinderummpelstiltskin” these unique, hilarious retellings poke fun at classic stories and characters. The wonderfully offbeat and bizarre characters, as well as innovative play with actors, make for a one-of-kind experience at the theatre!

Showtimes

September 16th at 10:30 am

September 16th at 2:00 pm

September 17th at 3:00 pm

Performances will be held at Richland Library Sandhills (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223)

Finding Nemo Jr. Auditions

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 00:36:06 GMT

About the Show

This fall, join CCT’s PB&J Players as they present Disney’s Finding Nemo JR!

This musical adaptation of the beloved 2003 Pixar movie Finding Nemo features a familiar plot. Marlin, an anxious and over-protective clownfish, lives in the Great Barrier Reef with his kid Nemo, who longs to explore the world beyond their anemone home. But when Nemo is captured and taken to Sydney, Marlin faces his fears and sets off on an epic adventure across the ocean. With the help of lovable characters such as optimistic Dory, laid-back sea turtle Crush, and the supportive Tank Gang, Marlin and Nemo both overcome challenges on their journey to find each other and themselves.

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who: actors in grades 1-5 (23-24 school year).

When: Saturday, September 9th from 6-8pm OR Sunday, September 10th from 3-5pm.

Where: The Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia: 1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169 (entrance faces Batchelor St. & The Palmetto Grand Lodge)

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file) **By signing the audition form, you agree to adhere to all listed requirements on this sheet.
Auditionees do not need to prepare anything for auditions, come as you are! During auditions, actors will be asked to learn an excerpt of a song, a short dance combination, and will possibly read some lines from the script. Please wear closed-toed shoes and clothes you can move in.
Actors only need to attend one audition session unless asked to return for a callback audition.

After the audition:

The cast list will be sent out via email by Friday, September 15th @5pm. Here you will accept or decline your actor’s role.
There is a one time participation fee of $125 ($250 max per family). There are a limited number of scholarships available.
Rehearsals begin September 18th. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. The rehearsal schedule will be released after the first rehearsal.
There will be a mandatory parent/actor meeting before the first rehearsal at 6pm. The meeting shouldn’t take more than 30 minutes.
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning October 16th.
Performances will be October 27-29 at Brookland-Cayce High School (link opens in Google Maps).
October 27th @7pm
October 28th @2pm
October 28th @7pm
October 29th @3pm

Questions? Email CCT Director of Operations Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Production Staff

Director/Music Director: Paul Lindley

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Liv Moody

Mad Libs Live: Field Trips

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 22:53:45 GMT

About the Show

Our story begins at the finals of Teen Superstars, the live TV show that will determine the most popular singing group at Blankville Central High. Virtuosa, Gogo, Geyser, and Merrily seem to have nothing in common – until just before airtime, when they realize that their songs are missing words! In the spirit of the “World’s Greatest Word Game,” our gang fills in the blanks with words from the audience! This truly interactive musical changes at every performance – thanks to you! Will GoGo get the girl? Will Geyser make new friends? Will Merrily come out of her shell? Will Virtuosa get out of the spotlight? And who will be the next Teen Superstars?? There is only one way to find out: Mad Libs Live!

Showtimes & Pricing

February 21, 2024 at 9:15

February 21, 2024 at 10:45

February 22, 2024 at 9:15

February 22, 2024 at 10:45

February 23, 2024 at 9:15

February 23, 2024 at 10:45 (SOLD OUT)

Admission is $7.50 per student. One free adult ticket is provided for every ten students in attendance. Reservations require a minimum of 10 tickets. Performances will be held at Richland Library, Sandhills (763 Fashion Dr., Columbia, SC 29223)

About CCT Field Trips

Please read the field trip performance and conditions sheet here before booking your field trip. This documents contains all the additional details you'll need.

Each field trip opportunity includes a study guide with standards-based material to help your students make deeper connections between the stage and the classroom. Each study guide includes:

A theatre career guide that helps students better understand how a theatre runs and what opportunities are availabe to them.
A theatre etiquette guide and key terms list that expand student’s cultural literacy and teach them how to think and talk about the theatre.
Theatre Games that any teacher can run. These games help students better understand what it means to perform and develop a deeper appreciation for what they are seeing on stage.
Discussion activities that help students analyze and contextualize the story that they see on stage.
A standards-based design that allows you to seamlessly weave the transformative power of live theatre into your lesson plans.

Goosebumps: Field Trips

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 22:49:57 GMT

About the Show

You and your class are invited to Goosebumps the Musical: Phantom of the Auditorium! Brooke and Zeke are thrilled to be starring in a mysterious show called The Phantom, and not the least bit frightened by the old legend that the play is cursed. But when strange, spooky messages start appearing, and a masked menace starts disrupting rehearsals, they begin to wonder: what if there really is a ghost haunting their school, determined to stop the show?! Prepare to get goosebumps as they race to solve the mystery in this thrilling—and chilling—new musical, based on the classic series by R.L. Stine.

Showtimes & Pricing

April 24, 2024 at 9:15

April 24, 2024 at 10:45

April 25, 2024 at 9:15

April 25, 2024 at 10:45

April 26, 2024 at 9:15

April 26, 2024 at 10:45

About CCT Field Trips

Please read the field trip performance and conditions sheet here before booking your field trip. This documents contains all the additional details you'll need.

Each field trip opportunity includes a study guide with standards-based material to help your students make deeper connections between the stage and the classroom. Each study guide includes:

A theatre career guide that helps students better understand how a theatre runs and what opportunities are availabe to them.
A theatre etiquette guide and key terms list that expand student’s cultural literacy and teach them how to think and talk about the theatre.
Theatre Games that any teacher can run. These games help students better understand what it means to perform and develop a deeper appreciation for what they are seeing on stage.
Discussion activities that help students analyze and contextualize the story that they see on stage.
A standards-based design that allows you to seamlessly weave the transformative power of live theatre into your lesson plans.

A Christmas Carol: Field Trips

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 22:45:50 GMT

About the Show

You and your class are invited to this spectacular musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' most well-known story!

Scrooge is a prosperous curmudgeon who believes that personal wealth is far more valuable than the happiness and comfort of others. With an infuriated "Bah! Humbug!" Scrooge summates his feelings of Christmas tidings and charitable giving, but he's forced to face his selfish ways when three ghosts on Christmas Eve lead him through his Past, Present and Future.

Thanks to their guidance, Scrooge recognizes his faults and greets Christmas morning with a cheerful "Happy Christmas" before spending the day reconnecting and sharing love with those that mean the most to him.

Showtimes & Pricing

November 29, 2023 at 9:15

November 29, 2023 at 11:00

November 30, 2023 at 9:15

November 30, 2023 at 11:00

December 1, 2023 at 9:15 (Sold Out)

December 1, 2023 at 11:00 (Sold Out)

About CCT Field Trips

Please read the field trip performance and conditions sheet here before booking your field trip. This documents contains all the additional details you'll need.

Each field trip opportunity includes a study guide with standards-based material to help your students make deeper connections between the stage and the classroom. Each study guide includes:

A theatre career guide that helps students better understand how a theatre runs and what opportunities are availabe to them.
A theatre etiquette guide and key terms list that expand student’s cultural literacy and teach them how to think and talk about the theatre.
Theatre Games that any teacher can run. These games help students better understand what it means to perform and develop a deeper appreciation for what they are seeing on stage.
Discussion activities that help students analyze and contextualize the story that they see on stage.
A standards-based design that allows you to seamlessly weave the transformative power of live theatre into your lesson plans.

Stinky Cheese Man: Field Trips

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 22:36:04 GMT

About the Show

In this uproarious and imaginative stage production of "The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales," audiences are transported to a whimsical world where classic fairy tales and nursery rhymes receive a hilariously modern and irreverent twist. The play unfolds as a collection of short stories, each featuring familiar characters like the Stinky Cheese Man, the Ugly Duckling, and Chicken Licken, but with a comedic and unexpected spin. Be sure to join us for this laugh-out-loud journey through the wacky and nonsensical world of fractured fairy tales.

Showtimes & Pricing

September 13, 2023 at 9:15

September 13, 2023 at 10:45

September 14, 2023 at 9:15

September 14, 2023 at 10:45

September 15, 2023 at 9:15

September 15, 2023 at 10:45

Admission is $7.50 per student. One free adult ticket is provided for every ten students in attendance. Reservations require a minimum of 10 tickets. Performances will be held at Richland Library, Sandhills (763 Fashion Dr., Columbia, SC 29223)

About CCT Field Trips

Since 2005 Columbia Children’s Theatre has been producing Mainstage productions featuring professional actors performing for young people across the Midlands. Through our education program, we make each season’s show availble to school and homeschool audiences at a discounted rate to ensure as many young people as possible have access to the arts.

Please read the field trip performance and conditions sheet here before booking your field trip. This documents contains all the additional details you'll need.

Each field trip opportunity includes a study guide with standards-based material to help your students make deeper connections between the stage and the classroom. Each study guide includes:

A theatre career guide that helps students better understand how a theatre runs and what opportunities are availabe to them.
A theatre etiquette guide and key terms list that expand student’s cultural literacy and teach them how to think and talk about the theatre.
Theatre Games that any teacher can run. These games help students better understand what it means to perform and develop a deeper appreciation for what they are seeing on stage.
Discussion activities that help students analyze and contextualize the story that they see on stage.
A standards-based design that allows you to seamlessly weave the transformative power of live theatre into your lesson plans.

The Commedia Little Mermaid

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 01:50:07 GMT

About the Show

The Spaghetti and Meatball Players are proud to present The Commedia Little Mermaid!

Everyone's favorite band of vagabond actors, the Spaghetti and Meatball Players, have made the trek across the river for their 14th (mostly) annual summer at CCT! This time, they are putting their mark on Hans Christian Andersen's classic tale The Little Mermaid. Join Arlequino (Paul Lindley), Columbine (Liv Moody), Il Capitano (Charlie Krawczyk, Mandal Sims), Pantalone (Alex Malvern), and Rosetta (Sadie Carr) as this bumbling troupe attempts to tell a straightforward story while juggling Arlequino's chicanery and Il Capitano's legal regulations to keep them in good terms with "the Mouse."

With humor aimed at both parents and kids, improvisation, and plenty of slapstick, this adaptation may not be traditional, but is sure to be a favorite for all ages!

What is Commedia dell’arte?

Commedia dell’arte, Italian for “comedy of the professional artists,” was a popular form of improvisational theatre that began in Italy in the 15th century and continued in its appeal for centuries. At that time, all performances were unscripted and held outdoors, with only simple props and no scenery. The influence of commedia dell’arte is evident in much of our contemporary comedy, most notably in the great commedia artists of the 20th century, the Marx Brothers and most recently with the rise of improvisational comedy shows such as Saturday Night Live and Whose Line is it Anyway. The stock “scenarios” acted out by the players are still evident in the plot lines of the current form of television sit-coms.

Showtimes

You have three opportunities to see The Commedia Little Mermaid at Richland Library Sandhills, Auditorium (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223)!

Saturday, July 15th at 10:30
Saturday, July 15th at 2:00
Sunday, July 16th at 3:00

Sponsor This Production. Sponsor the Rock.

The Rock

I know what you're thinking - what could be more essential to any Little Mermaid production than the big rock that she jumps up on. Well hold onto your seat - because we have an exciting rock-related offer. As we tour The Commedia Little Mermaid , we're going to be hauling around this big rock - and for $100 - we'll put your logo on it.

At CCT we keep the prices of our services low so young peoples access to the power of live theatre won't limited by their financial situation. Your support will go directly to support that programming. This may be a commedia, but we're serious about arts access for young people, so we hope you'll support the next generation and add your logo to the rock!

Ready to register your support for arts access in the Midlands? You can register your rock gift in two quick steps.

Complete your $100 payment using the payment form on this page.
Email the details of your sponsorship and your logo to Director of Marketing & Development William Mitchell at william@columbiachildrenstheatre.com.

Questions about CCT? Questions about the show? Questions about the rock? Feel free to reach out any time!

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If you or your child are more comfortable with mask usage or you are at higher risk of severe consequences from a Covid-19 infection, please continue to mask. Additionally, if your child is exposed to COVID-19, please have them wear a mask for a total of 10 days following the first day of exposure; anyone who is NOT fully vaccinated and who has been directly exposed should be kept home from camp/rehearsal for five days.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at 803-354-3883 .

The Little Mermaid

Sun, 04 Jun 2023 18:16:37 GMT

About the Show

In this exciting adaptation of Disney's The Little Mermaid , audiences will be transported to an enchanting undersea world filled with adventure and wonder!

Ariel, a young mermaid who dreams of exploring the world above the waves. When she falls in love with a human prince, she makes a daring deal with the sea witch Ursula to become human herself. But as Ariel navigates this new world, she discovers that the price of her transformation may be higher than she ever could have imagined.

Featuring beloved songs like "Part of Your World" and "Under the Sea," this production is sure to delight audiences of all ages. With vibrant costumes, stunning sets, and a talented cast of performers, The Little Mermaid is a must-see for anyone who loves theatre, Disney, or simply a good story. Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of this timeless tale brought to life on stage!

Showtimes

Cast Flotsam

Friday, July 28th at 7:00pm

Saturday, July 29th at 2:00pm

Saturday, July 29th at 7:00pm

Sunday, July 30th at 3:00pm

Cast Jetsam

Friday, August 4th at 7:00pm

Saturday, August 5th at 2:00pm

Saturday, August 5th at 7:00pm

Sunday, August 6th at 3:00pm

Tickets to CCT's Summer Show are $15. Seating is general admission.

Performances will be held at CA Johnson High School 2219 Barhamville Rd, Columbia, SC 29204.

Production Staff

Director: Jerry Stevenson

Music Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Support this Production!

This summer The Little Mermaid is coming to CCT and we need your support!

At Columbia Children’s Theatre we keep the prices as low as possible so more young people can have access to the transformative power of live theatre. We stand by that decision, but it means that program fees like tickets, registrations, and classes cover just 70% of the revenue needed to run the organization. For the remaining 30% we depend on our community.

Check out opportunities to support the production below!

Ready to register your support for the next generation of young performers? You can register your gift in two quick steps:

Email the details of which sponsorship you would like to our Director of Marketing & Development William Mitchell at william@columbiachildrenstheatre.com.
Complete payment using the payment on this page.

Questions? Feel free to reach out any time.

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at 803-354-3883 .

2023 Mainstage Auditions

Sun, 04 Jun 2023 01:27:40 GMT

What You Need to Know

Who: Actors, singers and actor/singers ages 15 and up.

Where: The Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia (1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169)

When: Sunday, June 11th 3-5PM and Monday, June 12th 6-8PM

Auditions are drop-in style and will consist of 24-32 bars of a Broadway-style song sung a cappella and cold readings from the scripts from each show.

Please complete this Google Form noting which shows you are interested in/available for.

If you have a headshot and resume, please bring hard copies to your audition.

Generally, rehearsals run weeknights from 6pm-9pm 5 weeks prior to opening. Pay is between $25 and $50 per show depending on experience and show location.

Questions? Check out this Audition Factoid (pdf file).

2023-24 Mainstage Shows

The Stinky Cheese Man & Other Fairly Stupid Tales

Based on the book by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith

Sept 13-17

A CHRISTMAS CAROL (Radio City version)

Based on the story by Charles Dickens

Nov. 29-Dec. 2, Dec. 9, 2023

MAD LIBS LIVE!

Based on the "World's Greatest Word Game"

February 20-25, 2024

GOOSEBUMPS: THE MUSICAL

Based on the books by R.L. Stine

April 24-28, 2024

COMMEDIA-STYLE PRODUCTION

Title TBD

June 2024

Check Out Photos from the 22/23 Mainstage Season!

Camp Kidding Around With CCT

Fri, 05 May 2023 15:16:01 GMT

Camp Kidding Around With CCT!

Camp Description

These creative play camps are perfect for any child who loves acting, singing, dancing or just having a good time. Taught by Columbia Children’s Theatre’s specially trained teaching artists, Camp Kidding Around helps students with public speaking, reading comprehension, and creative problem solving.

Details

Who can register: Students in grades 2-8

When: All camps run from 8:30 am – 5:00 pm

June 12-16
June 19- 23
June 25-29

Where: Brookland-Lakeview Empowerment Center
1218 Batchelor St. W. Columbia

Why: Because kids “just wanna have fun!”

Pricing: This program is free and open to the public but registration is required. Be sure to register below!

Summer Show Auditions: The Little Mermaid

Fri, 14 Apr 2023 13:42:44 GMT

About the Show

Director: Jerry Stevenson

Music Director: Christyne McClellan

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Assistant Stage Manager: Liv Moody

Performances: July 28-30 and August 4-6, 2023 (There will be two casts, one performing each weekend).

CCT’s YouTheatre Ensembles will combine this summer to stage this production!

Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen's most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney's The Little Mermaid is a beautiful love story for the ages. Ariel, King Triton's youngest daughter, wishes to pursue the human Prince Eric in the world above, bargaining with the evil sea witch, Ursula, to trade her tail for legs. But the bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea.

With music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater and a compelling book by Doug Wright, this fishy fable will capture your heart with its irresistible songs, including "Under the Sea," "Kiss the Girl" and "Part of Your World." We can't for you to join us!

What You Need to Know:

Who: Actors in grades 1-12 (22-23 school year). *Unfortunately, those who have just finished Kindergarten this school year are not eligible to audition.

When:

Sunday, May 21st @ 3-4:15pm (grades 1-6) and 4:30-6:30pm (grades 7-12)
Monday, May 22nd @ 6-7:15pm (grades 1-6) and 7:30-9pm (grades 7-12)
Tuesday, May 23rd @ 6-8pm Callbacks (we will let actors who are called back know via email after their audition session if they need to return for callbacks on this date)
Rehearsals will begin May 30, 2023.

Where: Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia (1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169).

*Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. Parents will drop their actors off after check-in and come back at the end time listed above.

Pricing: There is a one-time $125 ($250 max per family) participation fee payable on our retail page or by check/cash at the first rehearsal. If you are unable to pay this fee, a limited number of scholarships are available to help lower the cost. Cast t-shirts are included in the participation fee. This fee is NON-REFUNDABLE once your actor has accepted the role and attended the read-through.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file) carefully. **By signing the audition form, you agree to adhere to all listed requirements on this sheet.
Auditionees in grades 7-12 will be asked to perform one song from the following selections (pdf files):
Part of Your World
Poor Unfortunate Souls
Under the Sea
Auditionees in grades 1-6 will learn and sing a short selection from one of the songs during their audition session.
Actors will also learn a short dance routine and may be asked to read lines from the script at each audition session.
Actors only need to attend one audition session unless they are asked to return for a callback audition (May 23rd).

IMPORTANT INFO

There will be a mandatory parent/actor meeting before the first rehearsal for each cast on May 30th (Flotsam) and May 31st (Jetsam) at 6pm. The meeting shouldn’t take more than 20-30 minutes.
Participation fees and retail items will be available for purchase on our retail page on May 26th.
Rehearsals begin May 30th. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons.
The Little Mermaid will have two casts, one performing a 4-show run each weekend at CA Johnson High School.
July 28-30 (CAST FLOTSAM)
July 28th @7pm
July 29th @ 2pm and 7pm
July 30th @ 3pm
August 4-6 (CAST JETSAM)
August 4th @7pm
August 5th @ 2pm and 7pm
August 6th @ 3pm
There will be no conflicts accepted for either cast July 17-23. There will also be no conflicts for CAST FLOTSAM July 24-30 and no conflicts for CAST JETSAM July 31-August 6. CCT will be closed July 1-9.

Questions? Please contact CCT Director of Operations, Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

**If your actor would like to be considered for a principal role, the actor cannot have conflicts for more than 10 rehearsals. Any actor with more than 15 conflicts with rehearsals may not be considered for a role unless conflicts are negotiated.

Summer Show FAQ

Puff's Tickets

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 22:47:21 GMT

About the Show

For seven years a certain boy wizard went to a certain Wizard School and conquered evil. This, however, is not his story. This is the story of the Puffs... who just happened to be there too. A tale for anyone who has never been destined to save the world.

This clever and inventive play “never goes more than a minute without a laugh” (Nerdist) giving you a new look at a familiar adventure from the perspective of three potential heroes just trying to make it through a magic school that proves to be very dangerous for children. Alongside them are the Puffs, a group of well-meaning, loyal outsiders with a thing for badgers. Their “hilariously heartfelt!” (Metro) and epic journey takes the classic story to new places and reimagines what a boy wizard hero can be.

Showtimes

Friday, March 31, 2023 at 7:00pm

Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 2:00pm

Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 7:00pm

Sunday, April 2, 2023 at 3:00pm

Tickets to YouTheatre shows are $15. Seating is general admission. Performances will be held at Cardinal Newman School (2945 Alpine Rd, Columbia, SC 29223)

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at (803) 691-4548 .

She Kills Monsters Tickets

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 22:34:29 GMT

About the Show

She Kills Monsters tells the story of Agnes Evans as she leaves her childhood home in Ohio following the death of her teenage sister, Tilly. When Agnes finds Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons notebook, however, she finds herself catapulted into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the imaginary world that was her sister’s refuge. In this high-octane dramatic comedy laden with homicidal fairies, nasty ogres, and 90s pop culture, acclaimed playwright Qui Nguyen offers a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all.

This production is rated PG-13 for mature language and themes.

Showtimes

Friday, March 10, 2023 at 7:00pm

Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 2:00pm

Saturday, March 11, 2023 at 7:00pm

Sunday, March 12, 2023 at 3:00pm

Tickets to YouTheatre shows are $15. Seating is general admission. Performances will be held at Brookland-Cayce High School (1300 State St, Cayce, SC 29033).

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at (803) 691-4548 .

Puffs Auditions

Sun, 15 Jan 2023 16:13:11 GMT

About the Show

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who: Actors in grades 6-8 (22-23 school year).

When: Auditions will be held on Sunday, February 12th from 3-5pm & Monday, February 13th from 6:30-8:30pm. Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately two hours.

Where: CCT’s new space at The Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia (1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169)

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
Review the following Puffs Character Descriptions (pdf file) and Puffs Audition Packet (pdf file) . Select a character you are interested in and familiarize yourself with the scene(s) and/or monologue listed for that character before auditions. * These do not need to be memorized*
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition. *Please wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes to auditions

IMPORTANT INFO

Our read-thru will take place on Tuesday, February 21st from 6-8pm at the Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center.
Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and occasional Sunday afternoons.
Performances will be March 31st-April 2nd at Cardinal Newman School. Thats March 31st at 7pm, April 1st at 2pm & 7pm, and April 2nd at 3pm.
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning March 20th.

Production Staff

Director: Jonathan Monk

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at (803) 691-4548 .

How to Eat Like a Child

Thu, 05 Jan 2023 16:00:22 GMT

About the Show

This musical romp through the joys and sorrows of being a child is hilarious. Children give twenty-three lessons in such subjects as how to beg for a dog, how to torture your sister, how to act after being sent to your room, and how to laugh hysterically. The pace is fast, the tone subversive, and the recognition instant. How To Eat Like A Child is based on the Viking book of the same name by Delia Ephron. The musical version began its life as an NBC primetime special starring Dick Van Dyke. It was an immediate hit in schools, camps and community centers everywhere and has enjoyed thousands of productions all over the the US, Canada and many other countries where kids smuggle their least favorite vegetables to the garbage instead of eating them.

Showtimes

Friday, January 20th, 2023 at 7:00pm

Saturday, January 21st, 2023 at 2:00pm

Saturday, January 21st, 2023 at 7:00pm

Sunday, January 22nd, 2023 at 3:00pm

Tickets to YouTheatre shows are $15. Seating is general admission. Performances will be held at Meadow Glen Middle School (440 Ginny Ln, Lexington, SC 29072)

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at ( 803) 691-4548 .

James & the Giant Peach Jr.

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 15:40:30 GMT

About The Show

This Fall CCT's Peanut Butter & Jelly Players (grades 1-5) will join forces with the Entr'acte Ensemble (6-8) this fall to mount a musical production of Roald Dahl's James & the Giant Peach Jr!

Based on one of Roald Dahl’s most poignantly quirky stories, Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach JR. is a brand new take on this "masterpeach" of a tale. Featuring a wickedly tuneful score and a witty and charming book, this adventurous musical about courage and self-discovery is destined to be a classic. When James is sent by his conniving aunts to chop down their old fruit tree, he discovers a magic potion that grows a tremendous peach, rolls into the ocean and launches a journey of enormous proportions. James befriends a collection of singing insects that ride the giant piece of fruit across the ocean, facing hunger, sharks and plenty of disagreements along the way.

Showtimes

Friday, November 11th, 2022 at 7:00pm

Saturday November 12th, 2022 at 2:00pm

Saturday, November 12th, 2022 at 7:00pm

Sunday, November 13th, 2022 at 3:00pm

Performances will be held at CA Johnson (2219 Barhamville Rd, Columbia, SC 29204).

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at ( 803) 691-4548 .

2023 Audition Workshop

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 17:37:19 GMT

About the Workshop

Calling all middle and high schoolers as CCT hosts our first ever Non-Musical Audition Workshop! This hands-on workshop will feature audition tips, tricks and strategies for young actors auditioning for non-musical productions.

This spring CCT's YouTheatre will mount 2 non-musical productions; Puffs or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic and She Kills Monsters . The workshop, taught by our expert CCT staff and each show's director, is a perfect opportunity to hone those acting skills and perfect your audition technique. All participants will have the chance to work with text from the shows and receive feedback from the directors and staff. The Non-musical Audition Workshop is open to all young actors in grades 6-12, and requires no prior acting experience.

Attendees of the auditions workshop will:

Have the opportunity to meet the directors of both spring shows shows and along with regular CCT staff
Learn about the CCT audition process
Receive coaching on preparing a monologue with the actual audition monologues
Learn how to best approach a cold read and improvisational audition
Receive feedback in all areas of the audition

Details

When: January 15th, 2023 from 2:00 to 3:30

Who: Young actors in grades 6-12. No prior acting experience required and first-timers are encouraged to attend.

Where: Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center (1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169)

Cost: $20

John Tudor Workshop 2022

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Wed, 19 Oct 2022 17:28:29 GMT

About the Workshop

John Tudor returns for a Magic Workshop at CCT! This workshop is an interactive, hands-on class for children ages 6 and up. The students will watch a brief magic show, then learn to do exciting tricks they can show to friends and family. A parent or other adult is encouraged to take the workshop with the child.

Details

When: Saturday, November 19th, 2022 12:00-2:00

Where: Columbia Children's Theatre (3400 Forest Drive Columbia, SC 29204)

Cost: $25

What's a Magic Show Like?

If you've never been to a magic show you can check out some of John's work here for an idea of what you can expect!

Fame: The Musical

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 14:26:07 GMT

About The Show

An unmistakable title from the unforgettable film and television franchise, Fame The Musical inspired generations to fight for fame and light up the sky like a flame! Conceived and developed by David De Silva – now known affectionately to the planet as "Father Fame" – this high-octane musical features the Academy Award-winning title song and a host of other catchy pop numbers.

The show follows the final class of New York City's celebrated High School for the Performing Arts from their admission in 1980 to their graduation in 1984. All of the struggles, fears and triumphs – from prejudice to substance abuse – are depicted with razor-sharp focus as the young artists navigate the worlds of music, drama and dance. Fame is an international sensation that continues to reach new generations of performers and audience members.

Showtimes

October 14th, 2022 at 6:30pm

October 15th, 2022 at 2:00pm

October 15th, 2022 at 6:30pm

Performances will be held at Harbison Theatre (7300 College St, Irmo, SC 29063).

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at 803-354-3883 .

Pinkalicious: Field Trips

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 01:39:41 GMT

About the Show

Based on the popular book by Victoria Kann and Elizabeth Kann, this is the tale of Pinkalicious, who can’t stop eating pink cupcakes despite warnings from her parents.

Her pink indulgence lands her at the doctor’s office with Pinkititis, an affliction that turns her pink from head to toe–a dream come true for this pink-loving enthusiast. Alas Pinkalicious needs a way out of her pink predicament, and joined by her family they find unity and appreciation in the quirks that define us all.

Showtimes & Pricing

April 19th, 2023 at 9:15

April 19th, 2023 at 10:45

April 20th, 2023 at 9:15

April 20th, 2023 at 10:45

April 21st, 2023 at 9:15 Sold Out!

April 21st, 2023 at 10:45 Sold Out!

About CCT Field Trips

Since 2005 Columbia Children’s Theatre has been producing Mainstage productions featuring professional actors performing for young people across the Midlands. Through our education program, we make each season’s show availble to school and homeschool audiences at a discounted rate to ensure as many young people as possible have access to the arts.

Each field trip opportunity includes a study guide with standards-based material to help your students make deeper connections between the stage and the classroom. Each study guide includes:

A theatre career guide that helps students better understand how a theatre runs and what opportunities are availabe to them.
A theatre etiquette guide and key terms list that expand student’s cultural literacy and teach them how to think and talk about the theatre.
Theatre Games that any teacher can run. These games help students better understand what it means to perform and develop a deeper appreciation for what they are seeing on stage.
Discussion activities that help students analyze and contextualize the story that they see on stage.
A standards-based design that allows you to seamlessly weave the transformative power of live theatre into your lesson plans.

Register Your Field Trip Experience

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at ( 803) 691-4548 .

A Christmas Carol: Field Trips

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 01:23:59 GMT

About the Show

Ebenezer Scrooge is a prosperous curmudgeon who believes that personal wealth is far more valuable than the happiness and comfort of others. With an infuriated "Bah! Humbug!"

Scrooge summates his feelings of Christmas tidings and charitable giving, but he's forced to face his selfish ways when three ghosts on Christmas Eve lead him through his Past, Present and Future. Thanks to their guidance, Scrooge recognizes his faults and greets Christmas morning with a cheerful "Happy Christmas" before spending the day reconnecting and sharing love with those that mean the most to him. A Christmas Carol is a spectacular adaptation of Charles Dickens' most well-known story.

Showtimes & Pricing

December 1st, 2022 at 9:15am (Sold Out!)

December 1st, 2022 at 10:45am (Sold Out!)

December 2nd, 2022 at 9:15am (Sold Out!)

December 2nd, 2022 at 10:45 (Sold Out!)

This show is sold out but cancelations do happen. Want to be put on the waitlist? Email paul@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

Admission is $7.50 per student. One free adult ticket is provided for every ten students in attendance. Reservations require a minimum of 10 tickets. Performances will be held at Harbison Theatre (7300 College St. Irmo, SC 29063).

About CCT Field Trips

Since 2005 Columbia Children’s Theatre has been producing Mainstage productions featuring professional actors performing for young people across the Midlands. Through our education program, we make each season’s show availble to school, daycare, and homeschool audiences at a discounted rate to ensure as many young people as possible have access to the arts.

Each field trip opportunity includes a study guide with standards-based material to help your students make deeper connections between the stage and the classroom. Each study guide includes:

A theatre career guide that helps students better understand how a theatre runs and what opportunities are availabe to them.
A theatre etiquette guide and key terms list that expand student’s cultural literacy and teach them how to think and talk about the theatre.
Theatre Games that any teacher can run. These games help students better understand what it means to perform and develop a deeper appreciation for what they are seeing on stage.
Discussion activities that help students analyze and contextualize the story that they see on stage.
A standards-based design that allows you to seamlessly weave the transformative power of live theatre into your lesson plans.

Register Your Field Trip Experience (Sold Out)

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at ( 803) 691-4548 .

Akeelah & The Bee: Field Trips

Thu, 11 Aug 2022 00:59:07 GMT

About the Show

Life for 11-year-old Akeelah Anderson isn’t easy, especially after losing her father and growing up in a tough neighborhood in Chicago. Akeelah finds school boring and doesn’t apply herself even though she’s academically gifted.

Through the encouragement of teachers and the coaching of a special mentor, she conquers the regional bee and sets her sights on the Scripps National Spelling Bee. But will she overcome her own self-doubt and the pressures of her personal life to bring home the prestigious honor? This uplifting, family-centric story celebrates “winning” in more ways than one.

Showtimes & Pricing

February 15th, 2023 at 9:15am (Sold Out)

February 15th, 2023 at 10:45am

February 16th, 2023 at 9:15am (Sold Out)

February 16th, 2023 at 10:45am (Sold Out)

February 17th, 2023 at 9:15am

February 17th, 2023 at 10:45am

Admission is $7.50 per student. One free adult ticket is provided for every ten students in attendance. Reservations require a minimum of 10 tickets. Performances will be held at Richland Library Sandhills, Auditorium (763 Fashion Dr. Columbia, SC 29223)

About CCT Field Trips

Since 2005 Columbia Children’s Theatre has been producing Mainstage productions featuring professional actors performing for young people across the Midlands. Through our education program, we make each season’s show availble to school and homeschool audiences at a discounted rate to ensure as many young people as possible have access to the arts.

Each field trip opportunity includes a study guide with standards-based material to help your students make deeper connections between the stage and the classroom. Each study guide includes:

A theatre career guide that helps students better understand how a theatre runs and what opportunities are availabe to them.
A theatre etiquette guide and key terms list that expand student’s cultural literacy and teach them how to think and talk about the theatre.
Theatre Games that any teacher can run. These games help students better understand what it means to perform and develop a deeper appreciation for what they are seeing on stage.
Discussion activities that help students analyze and contextualize the story that they see on stage.
A standards-based design that allows you to seamlessly weave the transformative power of live theatre into your lesson plans.

Register Your Field Trip Experience

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at ( 803) 691-4548 .

CCTeens Auditions: She Kills Monsters

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 05:35:42 GMT

About the Show

Auditions: What You Need

to Know

Who: Actors in grades 9-12 (22-23 school year).

When: Auditions will be held on Sunday, January 29th from 3-5pm & Monday, January 30th from 6-8pm.

Where: CCT’s new space at The Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center in West Columbia (1218 Batchelor St, West Columbia, SC 29169)

Pricing: There is no fee to audition. Participation fees are $100 per child and capped at $200 per family.

Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately two hours.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
Review the following She Kills Monsters Audition Packet (pdf file) . Choose one monologue from the packet to memorize for auditions OR feel free to choose your own monologue from any fantasy adventure movie, book, or play. *Please wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes to auditions.*
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition.

IMPORTANT INFO

Our read-thru will take place on Monday, February 6th from 6-8pm at the Brookland Lakeview Empowerment Center.
Rehearsals begin February 6th , and will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons.
Performances will be March 10-12, 2023 at Brookland-Cayce High School.
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning February 27th.

Production Staff

Director: Paul Lindley II

Stage Manager: Liv Moody

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at (803) 691-4548 .

Entr'acte Ensemble Auditions: Puffs, or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 05:31:36 GMT

About the Show

The New York Times proclaims Puffs “A fast-paced romp through the ‘Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic.’ For Potterphiliacs who grew up alongside Potter and are eager to revisit that world, Puffs exudes a jovial, winking fondness for all things Harry!” This clever and inventive play “never goes more than a minute without a laugh” (Nerdist) giving you a new look at a familiar adventure from the perspective of three potential heroes just trying to make it through a magic school that proves to be very dangerous for children. Alongside them are the Puffs, a group of well-meaning, loyal outsiders with a thing for badgers “who are so lovable and relatable, you’ll leave the theater wishing they were in the stories all along” (Hollywood Life). Their “hilariously heartfelt!” (Metro) and epic journey takes the classic story to new places and reimagines what a boy wizard hero can be.

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Check back soon for Audition Information!

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at 803-354-3883 .

How to Eat Like a Child Auditions

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 05:28:31 GMT

About the Show

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who: actors in grades 1-5 (22-23 school year).

When: Sunday, November 20th from 3-5pm and Monday, November 21st from 6:30-8:30pm.

Where: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (3400 Forest Drive) Enter through the stage door.

Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately 2 hours.

Pricing: There is no fee to audition. Participation fees are $100 per child and capped at $200 per family.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
Auditionees do not need to prepare anything for auditions, come as you are! During auditions, actors will be asked to learn an excerpt of a song, a short dance combination, and will possibly read some lines from the script. Please wear closed-toed shoes and clothes you can move in.
Actors only need to attend one audition session unless asked to return for a callback audition.
Rehearsals begin December 5th. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons.
Performances will be January 20-22 at Meadow Glen Middle School (link opens in Google Maps).
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning January 9th.

Production Staff

Director: Jerry Stevenson

Music Director: Christyne McClellan

Choreographer: Rachel Brown

Stage Manager: Liv Moody

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at ( 803) 691-4548 .

James and the Giant Peach Jr. Auditions

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 05:23:05 GMT

About the Show

This Fall CCT's Peanut Butter & Jelly Players (grades 1-5) will join forces with the Entr'acte Ensemble (6-8) this fall to mount a musical production of Roald Dahl's James & the Giant Peach Jr!

What You Need to Know

Who: actors in grades 1-8 (22-23 school year).

When: Friday, September 23rd from 6-8pm and Saturday, September 24th from 3-5pm.

Where: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (3400 Forest Drive) Enter through the stage door.

Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately 2 hours.

Pricing: There is no fee to audition. Participation fees are $100 per child and capped at $200 per family.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
Auditionees do not need to prepare anything for auditions, come as you are! During auditions, actors will be asked to learn an excerpt of a song, a short dance combination, and will possibly read some lines from the script. Please wear closed-toed shoes and clothes you can move in.
Actors only need to attend one audition session unless asked to return for a callback audition.
Rehearsals begin October 10th. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons.
Performances will be November 11-13 at CA Johnson High School (link opens in Google Maps).
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning October 29th.

Director/Music Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager : Sadie Carr

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at 803-354-3883 .

CCTeens Auditions: Fame

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 05:14:09 GMT

About the Show

Auditions: What You Need to Know

Who: actors in grades 9-12 (22-23 school year).

When: Sunday, August 28 at 3:00PM and Monday, August 29 at 6:00PM

Where: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (3400 Forest Drive) Enter through the stage door.

Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately 2 hours.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
Auditionees will be asked to perform the following selection at auditions:
Hard Work (pdf file)
Actors will also learn a short dance routine and may be asked to read lines from the script at each audition session
Actors only need to attend one audition session unless asked to return for a callback audition.
Rehearsals begin September 6th. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. Performances will be October 14&15 at Harbison Theatre (link opens in Google Maps).
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning October 1st.
There is no cost to attend rehearsals. Participation fees for the show are $100 per child, capped at $200 per family.

Production Staff

Director: Julian Deleon

Music Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Check Out Photos From Last Fall's CCTeen Production: Ragtime

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at 803-354-3883 .

Pinkalicious

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 05:12:06 GMT

About the Show

Based on the popular book by Victoria Kann and Elizabeth Kann, this is the tale of Pinkalicious, who can’t stop eating pink cupcakes despite warnings from her parents.

Showtimes

April 22, 2023 at 2:00pm

April 22, 2023 at 6:00pm

Performances will be held at Harbison Theatre (7300 College St, Irmo, SC 29063).

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at 803-354-3883 .

Akeelah & The Bee

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 05:08:49 GMT

About the Show

Showtimes

February 18th, 2023 at 10:30am

February 18th, 2023 at 2:00pm

February 19th, 2023 at 3:00pm

Performances will be held at Richland Library Sandhills, Auditorium (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223).

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at ( 803) 691-4548 .

A Christmas Carol

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 05:05:54 GMT

About the Show

Broadway heavy hitters, Alan Menken (Disney's Beauty and the Beast, Disney's The Little Mermaid, Little Shop of Horrors) and Lynn Ahrens (Ragtime, Seussical, Once on This Island), breathe fantastic new life into the classic tale of A Christmas Carol. Ebenezer Scrooge is a prosperous curmudgeon who believes that personal wealth is far more valuable than the happiness and comfort of others.

With an infuriated "Bah! Humbug!" Scrooge summates his feelings of Christmas tidings and charitable giving, but he's forced to face his selfish ways when three ghosts on Christmas Eve lead him through his Past, Present and Future. Thanks to their guidance, Scrooge recognizes his faults and greets Christmas morning with a cheerful "Happy Christmas" before spending the day reconnecting and sharing love with those that mean the most to him. A Christmas Carol is a spectacular adaptation of Charles Dickens' most well-known story.

Showtimes

Audiences have the opportunity to enjoy this show at one of two venues. The first shows will premier at Harbison Theatre (7300 College St, Irmo, SC 29063):

December 3rd, 2:00pm
December 3rd, 6:00pm

Audiences can also enjoy A Christmas Carol at the Arts Center of Kershaw County (810 Lyttleton St, Camden, SC 29020) :

December 10th at 2:00pm

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at 803-354-3883 .

Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 04:54:29 GMT

About the Show

Whatever you do, don't let the Pigeon star in his own musical production! With a script written by Mo Willems, the creator of the #1 New York Times best-selling, Caldecott Honor award-winning "Pigeon" picture books, and featuring music by Deborah Wicks La Puma (Elephant & Piggie's We Are in a Play!), Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is even more fun than staying up late and having a hot dog party!

It's not easy being the Pigeon-you never get to do ANYTHING! But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird CAN do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is sure to get everyone's wings flapping.

Showtimes

September 17th, 10:30am

September 17th, 2:00pm

September 18th, 3:00pm

Performances will be held at Richland Library Sandhills, Auditorium (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223).

Interested in field trip opportunities for Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!? Check them out here.

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at 803-354-3883 .

Magic Moments at CCT

William@timothysinclair.com (William Mitchell) — Sun, 07 Aug 2022 19:44:36 GMT

PB&J Players (Pre-K -5th Grade)

Entr-Acte Ensemble (6th-8th Grade)

CCTeens (9th-12th Grade)

Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! Field Trips

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 18:59:29 GMT

About the Show

But when the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers (gasp!) late, maybe that wily bird CAN do something. Featuring an innovative mix of songs, and feathers, Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is sure to get everyone's wings flapping.

Showtimes & Pricing

Admission is $7.50 per student. One free adult ticket is provided for every ten students in attendance. Reservations require a minimum of 10 tickets. Students and educators the opportunity to attend this production at one of two locations:

Richland Library Sandhills, Auditorium (763 Fashion Dr, Columbia, SC 29223).

September 14th at 9:15 and 10:45
September 15th at 9:15 and 10:45
September 16th at 9:15 and 10:45

Spring Valley High School

September 23rd at 9:15am and 10:45am

About CCT Field Trips

Since 2005 Columbia Children’s Theatre has been producing Mainstage productions featuring professional actors performing for young people across the Midlands. Through our education program, we make each season’s show availble to school and homeschool audiences at a discounted rate to ensure as many young people as possible have access to the arts.

Each field trip opportunity includes a study guide with standards-based material to help your students make deeper connections between the stage and the classroom . Each study guide includes:

A theatre career guide that helps students better understand how a theatre runs and what opportunities are availabe to them.
A theatre etiquette guide and key terms list that expand student’s cultural literacy and teach them how to think and talk about the theatre.
Theatre Games that any teacher can run. These games help students better understand what it means to perform and develop a deeper appreciation for what they are seeing on stage.
Discussion activities that help students analyze and contextualize the story that they see on stage.
A standards-based design that allows you to seamlessly weave the transformative power of live theatre into your lesson plans.

Register Your Field Trip Experience

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at 803-354-3883 .

Matilda

Fri, 01 Jul 2022 15:52:27 GMT

About the Show

Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award-winning Matilda: The Musical tells the story of Matilda, a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers. She's unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly lovable Miss Honey.

Over the course of her first term at school, Matilda and Miss Honey have a profound effect on each other's lives, as Miss Honey begins not only to recognize but also appreciate Matilda's extraordinary personality. Matilda's school life isn't completely smooth sailing, however – the school's mean headmistress, Miss Trunchbull, hates children and just loves thinking up new punishments for those who don't abide by her rules. But Matilda has courage and cleverness in equal amounts, and could be the school's pupils' saving grace!

Packed with high-energy dance numbers, catchy songs and amazing flying effects, Matilda is a joyous girl power romp unlike anything Columbia has ever seen. Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination!

Showtimes

Cast Acrobat

Friday, August 5th 2022 at 7:00pm

Saturday, August 6th 2022 at 2:00pm

Saturday, August 6th 2022 at 7:00pm

Sunday, August 7th 2022 at 3:00pm

Cast Escapologist

Friday, August 12th 2022 at 7:00pm

Saturday, August 13th 2022 at 2:00pm

Saturday, August 13th at 7:00pm

Sunday, August 14th at 3:00pm (This show is sold out online, but there are plenty of tickets available at the door!)

Tickets to CCT's Summer Show are $15. Seating is general admission.

Performances will be held at CA Johnson High School 2219 Barhamville Rd, Columbia, SC 29204.

Cast & Crew

Director: Julian Deleon

Music Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Cast Acrobat

Miss Honey's Class - Bryn Alexander

Crunchem Hall Primary - Kinley Angel

Amanda - Kiley Bailey

Crunchem Hall Primary - Trey Bailey

Crunchem Hall Primary - Ella Barr

Escapologist - Will Barr

Crunchem Hall Primary - Malia Beaty

Mr. Wormwood - Mark Blankenship-Brown

Crunchem Hall Primary - Bailey Bostic

Crunchem Hall Upper Class - Rubi Bouknight

Nigel - Adrianna "Raven" Cannin

Bruce - Ayden Cobb

Crunchem Hall Upper Class - Callie Cooper

Crunchem Hall Upper Class - Hylie Davis

Crunchem Hall Primary - Cecily Diaz

Sergei/Scary Kid/Parent - River Diveley

Mrs. Wormwood - Mel Driggers

Crunchem Hall Primary - Jacqueline Eargle

Matilda - Leighton Ford

Acrobat - Adelle Fuller

Miss Honey's Class - Anna Fuller

Alice - Mary Catherine Gabrielli

Rudolpho - Nati Glowaki

Crunchem Hall Primary - Carly Guthrie

Crunchem Hall Upper - Class Lily Guthrie

Miss Honey's Class - Zoey Guthrie

Crunchem Hall Primary - Marine Ha

Hortensia - Payton Harvey

Lavender - Paden Herbig

Crunchem Hall Primary - Lauren Hipp

Crunchem Hall Primary - Taylan Hughey

Crunchem Hall Primary - LiliJohnson

Eric - Jesse Jones

Crunchem Hall Primary - Promise Jones

Big Kid/Parent - Sofie Jones

Trunchbull - Frances Judge

Crunchem Hall Upper - Class Chris Koparov

Crunchem Hall Primary - Ahditya La Roche

Crunchem Hall Primary - Ezra Lindley

Crunchem Hall Primary -Amelia Loughridge

Crunchem Hall Upper Class -Riley Marshall

Doctor/Entertainer - RobertMcCreary

Crunchem Hall Primary - Charlotte McRee

Crunchem Hall Primary - Aubreigh Murphy

Big Kid/Parent - Franchelle Quinn

Crunchem Hall Primary - Lotus Reaves

Miss Honey's Class - Delaney Roberts

Miss Honey's Class - Maya Roberts

Big Kid/Parent - SophiaRobinson

Crunchem Hall Primary - SaraSaikaly

Miss Honey - GraceSawiki

Mrs. Phelps - Katie Sawiki

Michael Wormwood - Sam Siceloff

Crunchem Hall Upper - Class Braylynn Tiller

Crunchem Hall Primary - Emanee Tiller

Crunchem Hall Upper Class - EvieVan Sant

Tommy - Susana Vandelay

Miss Honey's Class - MaryWidener

Crunchem Hall Upper Class - Rye Winecoff

Miss Honey's Class - Laura Wofford

Crunchem Hall Upper Class - Jackson Wright

Crunchem Hall Primary - Luke Wyllie

Cast Escapologist

Crunchem Hall Primary - Anna Agee

Crunchem Hall Primary - Jude Agee

Crunchem Hall Upper Class – Lillian Amick

Big Kid/Parent - Abigail Bast

Tommy – Adrian Branham

Big Kid/Parent - Emmary Branham

Acrobat - Addie Brown

Lavender - Eliza Brown

Trunchbull - Tristian Brown

Crunchem Hall Primary - Vivian Burchstead

Crunchem Hall Primary - Lacey Campbell

Hortensia - Evelyn Cavanna

Crunchem Hall Primary - Taylor Daly

Sergei/Scary Kid/Parent - Thomas Daly

Doctor/Entertainer - Trenett Delaine

Matilda - Emmalyn Eberhardt

Crunchem Hall Primary - Lily Eberhardt

Rudolpho – Nick Eberhardt

Crunchem Hall Primary - AvaJoy Epperson

Crunchem Hall Primary - Sophia Fairclough

Crunchem Hall Primary - Ridley Fastenau

Mrs. Wormwood - Naiya Fernandez

Alice - Calla Friedman

Escapologist - Kieran Gavin

Miss Honey's Class - Emma Goins-Buckland

Crunchem Hall Primary - British Guyton

Amanda - Anna Rogers Haile

Crunchem Hall Primary - Angela Hicks

Crunchem Hall Primary - Sabine Khan

Crunchem Hall Upper - Class Olivia Kissiah

Miss Honey's Class - Waylon Kuhn

Crunchem Hall Primary – Wilco Kuhn

Big Kid/Parent - Madeline Kunz

Crunchem Hall Primary - Alice Lee

Miss Honey - Emmi Lee

Crunchem Hall Primary - Kaitlyn Lewis

Eric - Vinny Lopez

Crunchem Hall Primary - Jack Lucas

Crunchem Hall Primary - Kylie Morris

Crunchem Hall Primary - Leah Pate

Miss Honey's Class - Annie Pregnall

Mrs. Phelps - Leila Pregnall

Crunchem Hall Primary - Abby Prijoles McCracken

Crunchem Hall Upper Class - Ella Prijoles McCracken

Crunchem Hall Upper Class - Lucy Schrader

Crunchem Hall Upper Class - Molly Schrader

Crunchem Hall Primary - Khloe Smith

Miss Honey's Class - Sally Smith

Mr. Wormwood - Cort Stevenson

Miss Honey's Class - Fiona Taylor

Crunchem Hall Primary - Ruby Tuttle

Nigel - Lauren Waters

Crunchem Hall Primary - Madeline Watson

Big Kid/Parent - Kate Weiss

Michael Wormwood - Sam Weiss

Miss Honey's Class - Louisa White

Crunchem Hall Primary - Katie Wiggleston

Bruce - Sadie Wiskes

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If your child is exhibiting symptoms or tests positive for the virus, please keep them home from camp/rehearsal.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at 803-354-3883 .

Summer Camp 2022 Cancelation Policy

William@timothysinclair.com (William Mitchell) — Tue, 31 May 2022 17:57:06 GMT

CCT Cancellation Policy

Our camps and classes hold limited capacity, and many sell out. For this reason, we request that you cancel at least two weeks before your scheduled camp or class. This will allow us to offer your spot to another student.

Cancellations made two weeks or more in advance of the camp or class start date will receive a 100% refund. Cancellations made 3-13 days in advance will receive a 50% refund. Cancellations made fewer than three days advance will not receive a refund.

Columbia Children's Theatre reserves the right to cancel a class or camp. In this case, any tuition will be refunded in full.

Refunds received may also be applied as credit toward a future camp, class, or show tickets.
You may contact Paul Lindley, Director of Education, at paul@columbiachildrenstheatre.com to cancel.

Camp Anchor Links (Internal)

William@timothysinclair.com (William Mitchell) — Mon, 23 May 2022 12:55:02 GMT

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Fantasy Fun

Age Screen

Elephant and Piggie

Exploring the World of Eric Carle

Totsy Turvy

Fantasy Fun Camp

Acting Up

Singing, Dancing, and All That Jazz: Musical Theatre Camp

Improvisation for the Middle Schooler

Summer Theatrical Tap

Page to Stage: The Art of Storytelling

Advanced Acting for the Middle Schooler

Backstage Basics: Intro to Tech Theatre

Sketch Comedy with Martha Hearn

Kids on Camera

Improvisation Studio

Acting Studio

Director's Studio

Summer Advanced Theatrical Tap

Adult Theatrical Tap

2022 Mainstage Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Thu, 12 May 2022 11:13:47 GMT

What You Need to Know

Who: Actors, singers and actor/singers ages 15 and up.

Where: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (3400 Forest Drive). Enter through the stage door.

When: Sunday, June 5th 3-5PM and Monday, June 6th 6-8PM

Auditions are drop-in style and will consist of 24-32 bars of a Broadway-style song sung a cappella and cold readings from the scripts from each show.
Please complete this Google Form noting which shows you are interested in/available for and attach a picture and resume if you have one.

Generally, rehearsals run weeknights from 7:30-9pm 5 weeks prior to opening. Pay is between $25 and $50 per show depending on experience and show location.

Please contact CCT Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson with any questions at jerry@columbiachildrenstheatre.com

2022-23 Mainstage Shows

DON’T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS

Based on the Pigeon books by Mo Willems

Mid-Late September 2022

A CHRISTMAS CAROL (Radio City version)

Based on the story by Charles Dickens

Early December 2022

AKEELAH & THE BEE

Based on the 2006 Film

Mid-February 2023

PINKALICIOUS

Based on the book by Victoria Kann and Elizabeth Kann

Mid-April 2023

COMMEDIA-STYLE PRODUCTION

Title TBD

June 2023

School of Rock

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Thu, 05 May 2022 12:42:54 GMT

About the Show

Producer: Mari Hazel

Director: Paul Lindley

Music Director: Paul Lindley

Andrew Lloyd Webber, the man who brought rock and romance to Broadway, is back with a new heart-stirring hit. SCHOOL OF ROCK is a New York Times Critics’ Pick and “AN INSPIRING JOLT OF ENERGY, JOY AND MAD SKILLZ!” (Entertainment Weekly ). Reuters raves ”ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER HAS BROADWAY ROCKING AGAIN!”

Based on the hit film, this hilarious new musical follows Dewey Finn, a failed, wannabe rock star who decides to earn a few extra bucks by posing as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. There he turns a class of straight-A students into a guitar-shredding, bass-slapping, mind-blowing rock band. While teaching these pint-sized prodigies what it means to truly rock, Dewey falls for the school’s beautiful, but uptight headmistress, helping her rediscover the wild child within. (The New York Times says, “BE WARNED! There’s a love story in this one.”)

Featuring 14 new songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber and all the original songs from the movie, this high-octane smash delivers face-melting guitar riffs and touching romance in equally awesome doses!

Showtimes

Saturday, May 21st at 2:00pm

Saturday May 21st at 7:00pm

Performances will be held at Columbia College's Cottingham Theatre (1301 Columbia College Dr, Columbia, SC 29203.)

Safety Procedures

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Managing Director Larry Hembree at larry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at 803-354-3883 .

Matilda Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Wed, 27 Apr 2022 21:26:36 GMT

What You Need to Know:

Who: Actors in grades 1-12 (21-22 school year).

When: Auditions will be held:

Sunday, May 22 at 3-4:15pm (grades 1-6) and 4:30-6:30pm (grades 7-12)
Monday, May 23 at 6-7:15pm (grades 1-6) and 7:30-9:00pm (grades 7-12)

Callbacks will be Tuesday, May 24 at 6-8pm. Additionally, if you are unable to make the other auditions opportunities, all grades are eligible to do a first audition during callbacks.

Rehearsals will begin June 7, 2022.

Where: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (3400 Forest Drive). Enter through the stage door (between Belk and Barnes and Noble).

*Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. Parents will drop their actors off after check-in and come back at the end time listed above.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
Auditionees in grades 1-6 will learn and sing a short selection from one of the songs during their audition session.
Auditionees in grades 7-12 will be asked to perform one song from the following selections (pdf files).

Actors will also learn a short dance routine and may be asked to read lines from the script at each audition session
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition (May 24).

IMPORTANT INFO

There will be a mandatory parent/actor meeting before the first rehearsal for each cast on June 7th (Acrobat) and June 8th (Escapologist) at 6pm. The meeting shouldn’t take more than 20-30 minutes.
Participation fees and retail items will be available for purchase on our retail page on June 3rd.
Rehearsals begin June 7th. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons.
Matilda: The Musical will have two casts, one performing a 4-show run each weekend at a location TBA.

August 5-7 (CAST ACROBAT)

August 5th @7pm
August 6th @ 2pm and 7pm
August 7th @ 3pm

August 12-14 (CAST ESCAPOLOGIST)

August 12th @7pm
August 13th @ 2pm and 7pm
August 14th @ 3pm

There will be no conflicts accepted for either cast July 23-31. There will also be no conflicts for CAST ACROBAT August 1-7 and no conflicts for CAST ESCAPOLOGIST August 8-14. CCT will be closed July 2-10.

About the Show

Director: Julian Deleon

Music Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Performances: August 5-7 and 12-14, 2022 (There will be two casts, one performing each weekend).

CCT’s YouTheatre Ensembles will combine this summer to put on one big production!

Inspired by the twisted genius of Roald Dahl, the Tony Award-winning Roald Dahl's Matilda The Musical tells the story of Matilda, a little girl with astonishing wit, intelligence and psychokinetic powers. She's unloved by her cruel parents but impresses her schoolteacher, the highly lovable Miss Honey.

Children and adults alike will be thrilled and delighted by the story of the special little girl with an extraordinary imagination!

John Tudor's Magic Workshop

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Wed, 27 Apr 2022 11:22:39 GMT

About the Workshop

The Magic Workshop is an interactive, hands-on class for children ages 6 and up. The students will watch a brief magic show, then learn to do exciting tricks they can show to friends and family. A parent or other adult is encouraged to take the workshop with the child.

Details

When: Saturday, November, 19th from 12:00-2:00pm

Where: Columbia Children's Theatre (3400 Forest Drive Columbia, SC 29204)

Cost: $25

What's a Magic Show Like?

If you've never been to a magic show you can check out some of John's work here for an idea of what you can expect!

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead: Context

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 16:11:02 GMT

Characters: Through the Lens of Hamlet

In Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead, we'll get to see the madcap antics of Hamlet through the perspective of two side characters. Here's a quick reminder on the key players and their role in the original Halmet.

Rosencrantz/Guildenstern: Childhood friends of Hamlet. No more. No less.

Player/Tragedians: Perform the “play-within-a-play,” The Murder of Gonzago, which Hamlet embelishes to become The Mousetrap. The Mousetrap depicts the murder of Hamlet’s father at the hands of Claudius.

Hamlet: Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, is tasked by his father’s ghost in avenging his death at the hands of his brother. Hamlet’s mental state is called into question throughout the play. However, Hamlet might be more sane than he is letting on. That is the question.

Claudius: After disposing of the king (his brother) via poison, Hamlet’s uncle usurps the throne of Denmark and marries Hamlet’s mother to secure his position as king.

Gertrude: Hamlet’s widowed mother who marries his uncle, Claudius, after the king’s death. Hamlet resents her for her marriage to Claudius.

Polonius: Chief advisor to Claudius and father to Ophelia. Hamlet accidentally kills Polonius, which prompts Ophelia’s eventual suicide.

Ophelia: Begins the story romantically involved with Hamlet. Hamlet’s actions throughout the play and the death of her father lead to her suicide by drowning.

Hamlet: The Original Plot

Hamlet Act I

The ghost of Hamlet’s father demands he avenge his death.

Hamlet Act II

Rosencrantz, Guildenstern, and the Tragedians all arrive in Elsinore.

Hamlet Act III

The Tragedians perform The Murder of Gonzago , and Hamlet accidentally kills Polonius.

Hamlet Act IV

Ophelia drowns herself in a river. Meanwhile, Hamlet, Rosencrantz, and Guildenstern are sent to England. Also, pirates.

Hamlet Act V

Claudius tries to kill Hamlet, kills Gertrude. Hamlet kills Laertes and Claudius. Laertes kills Hamlet.

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 12:25:29 GMT

About the Show

Director: Paul Lindley II

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Performances: April 1-3, 2022

Prince Hamlet of Denmark sets out to avenge his father’s murder, all the while trying desperately to keep his sanity in one piece. That’s all very well for Hamlet — but how does the prince’s erratic behavior appear to casual bystanders not clued in on Hamlet’s schemes? In Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead, playwright Tom Stoppard turns one of the most famous plays of the Western world on its head by putting two minor characters, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, and presenting the madcap antics of the royals through their eyes.

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern have been summoned to Elsinore by the king, Claudius. He and Queen Gertrude, wish for Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to glean what sudden sway of madness has affected Hamlet. The duo sets out to achieve their task, meeting a ragged troupe of players along the way. Brief glimpses of scenes from Hamlet show the trials and tribulations of the royals; our two heroes are largely left in a state of waiting. They pass the time playing games, posing questions, and tossing coins, until they gradually realize that their fates have been taken out of their own hands. They are merely characters in a larger story in which they have no say. Part Shakespearean tragedy, part Laurel and Hardy comedy routine, part Waiting for Godot absurdity, Tom Stoppard’s masterful debut play calls fate, free will, art, reality, communication, and the very constructs of theatre into question, all the while leading two most honorable, adventurous, brilliant, and inept characters on their path to their unfortunate, unavoidable, infamous fate.

Showtimes

Friday April 1st at 7:00pm

Saturday April 2nd at 2:00pm

Saturday April 2nd at 7:00pm

Sunday April 3rd at 3:00pm

Performances will be held at Saluda Shoals Park (5605 Bush River Rd, Columbia, SC 29212.)

Safety Procedures

Masks are not required indoors, regardless of vaccination status. We continue to strongly encourage patrons to take responsibility for self-monitoring any symptoms. We encourage folks to take precautions for personal safety and the safety of others. Precautions could include getting vaccinated, wearing a mask indoors, and practicing appropriate distancing. Please be respectful of others, their personal space, and all health and safety practices. While these practices are not requirements at this time, please respect the choices of fellow patrons.

Nora's Ark Cast Resource Page

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 20:16:07 GMT

Hello Nora's Ark cast members and parents! Below, you'll find valuable information to help make the most of our experience together during this show, including staff contact details and information about rehearsals, costumes and performances.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to Stage Manager Olivia Bell (oliviarosebell2002@hotmail.com).

Staff Information

Director: Julian Deleon

Music Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Rachel Brown

Stage Manager: Olivia Bell

Nora's Ark Tickets

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Tue, 08 Feb 2022 15:57:34 GMT

About the Show

Director: Julian Deleon

Musical Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Rachel Brown

Stage Manager: Olivia Bell

Nora, a scientist is checking formula and data in her laboratory. Her daughters, Dora, Flora, Lora and Fitzi assist. Nora has determined an imminent danger; that the North and South poles will melt and the Earth will flood. She sends her daughters off with specific instructions. Dora will find a cruise ship. Flora must free the animals at the Bronx Zoo and bring them to the ship. Lora will find rain gear and Fitzi will be in charge of all of the food preparation on the ship. Fitzi is overjoyed at her new profession: Chef.

The Storm sends a musical interpretation of the deluge, which floods the Earth. After the storm, Nora introduces herself and her daughters to the animals. It becomes clear, early on, that Fitzi, in her excitement about being made “Chef” has forgotten the essentials; namely the food. Things look pretty desperate as the animals are starving. A real moral decision for the Prey must then be made; let the Predators, their former adversaries starve to death? Or, help to figure out a solution to save them?

Showtimes

Friday, March 11th at 7:00pm

Saturday, March 12th at 2:00pm

Saturday, March 12th at 7:00pm

Sunday, March 13th at 3:00pm

Performances will be held at Columbia College's Cottingham Theatre (1301 Columbia College Dr, Columbia, SC 29203.)

Safety Procedures

Our first priority is the safety of our staff, actors and audience as we face the COVID-19 crisis.

In light of the CDC's recommendations , we are requesting that all patrons and volunteers attending a performance wear a mask in the lobby and theatre, regardless of vaccination status. We will have masks available for patrons who did not bring one.

Advanced tickets are strongly recommended as walk-in sales will not be available once we have reached capacity.

Learn how we're working to ensure that our performances meet the highest standard for safety in our COVID-19 Guidelines .

Theatrical Tap For the Middle Schooler

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 18:51:01 GMT

About this Class

This class is a good fit for:

Experiences performers looking to take their skills to the next level
First-time performers who are looking to improve quickly with intensive instruction
Young actors looking to perform better during auditions

What to Expect:

A perennial favorite, our Advanced Acting course is perfect for young performers at any skill level who are ready to take their acting to the next level.

Taught by CCT Artistic Associate and alumnus of New York's American Academy of the Dramatic Arts Julian Deleon, this course offers students the opportunity to learn acting theory and techniques commonly found at university level.

The core of each week's activities in this course focus on exercises exploring the Stanislavski and Meisner Systems. The Stanislavski system is a series of techniques to train actors to create believable characters through putting themselves in the place of the character, while the Meisner focuses more on the actors relation to others and the immediate environment.

At the intersection of these two systems? A more complete performance.

To help take these new skills into the "real world," students will explore appropriate techniques for auditions from selecting pieces to "marketing" themselves correctly.

To demonstrate their new-found skills, class students will capstone the course by preparing for and executing an in-class "audition."

The Details

Who: Students Grades 9-12

Where: Columbia Children's Theatre (3400 Forest Drive Inside Richland Mall)

When: This is a 10 week course running from January 30th to April 6th

Cost: $200 (Scholarships are available)

Meet Your Teacher

If you've been involved with CCT in any way you are no stranger to CCT Artistic Associate Julian Delon. An alumnus of New York's American Academy of the Dramatic Arts and a longtime actor/director, Julian brings a wealth of experience in both academic and practical experience to teaching theatre. A Columbia native, Julian loved New York but was passionate about expanding the arts community in Columbia. He is excited to be teaching this class and looks forward to seeing you there!

Safety Procedures

Our first priority is the safety of our staff, actors and audience as we face the COVID-19 crisis.

School of Rock Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Thu, 20 Jan 2022 20:15:57 GMT

What You Need to Know:

The Scoop: School of Rock is a program run through Freeway Music in partnership with CCT. Unlike our YouTheatre shows, this production is structured as a 16-week class that runs through May. All registrants are guaranteed a role.

Who: actors in grades 5-12

When: Auditions will be held on Saturday, January 22nd from 3:00-5:00pm

Where: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (3400 Forest Drive) Enter through the stage door.

Steps to take:

Prepare to rock
Register for the audition here

Important Info

You can find a calendar of rehearsals and commitments here
This is a 16-week group theatre class organized in partnership between CCT and Freeway music
The cost for the program is $75/mo.
Performances will be held Saturday, May 21st 2022
For questions reach out to mari@freewaymusic.net

About the Show

Director: Paul Lindley

Based on the cult film and with a rocking new score from Andrew Lloyd Webber, School of Rock follows slacker Dewey Finn as he turns a class of straight – A students into an ear-popping, riff-scorching, all-conquering rock band! As they prepare for the Battle of the Bands, can Dewey make them embrace the empowering message of rock?

This partnership between Freeway Music and CCT offers the unique opportunity for young actors to perform with of a live band! A truly unique offering in the Midlands, this is one production you won't want to miss!

Peter & The Starcatcher

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 20:02:40 GMT

About the Show

Director: Julian Deleon

Stage Manager: Olivia Bell

Music Director and Live Accompanist: Paul Lindley II

Tony-winning Peter and the Starcatcher upends the century-old story of how a miserable orphan comes to be The Boy Who Would Not Grow Up (a.k.a. Peter Pan).

A young orphan and his mates are shipped off from Victorian England to a distant island ruled by the evil King Zarboff. They know nothing of the mysterious trunk in the captain’s cabin, which contains a precious, otherworldly cargo. At sea, the boys are discovered by a precocious young girl named Molly, a Starcatcher-in-training who realizes that the trunk’s precious cargo is starstuff, a celestial substance so powerful that it must never fall into the wrong hands.

When the ship is taken over by pirates – led by the fearsome Black Stache, a villain determined to claim the trunk and its treasure for his own – the journey quickly becomes a thrilling adventure. From marauding pirates and jungle tyrants to unwilling comrades and unlikely heroes, Peter and the Starcatcher playfully explores the depths of greed and despair... and the bonds of friendship, duty and love.

Showtimes

Jolly Cast

Friday, January 28th 2022 at 7:00pm

Saturday, Jan. 28th 2022 at 2:00pm

Roger Cast

Saturday, January 29th at 7:00pm

Sunday, Jan. 30th at 3:00pm

Performances will be held at Columbia Children's Theatre at Richland Mall (3400 Forest Drive).

Cast List

Jolly Cast

Black Stache - James Hills

Molly Aster - Eliza Brown

Boy/Peter - Kelan Smith

Lord Leonard Aster - Ian Roberts

Mrs. Bumbrake - Leila Pregnall

Ted - Sandy Bressler

Prentiss - Rye Winecoff

Greggors/Smee - Kylie Bailey

Bill Slank - Jackson Wright

Alf - Sofia Velasquez

Captain Robert Falcon Scott - Chase Birnstill

Grempkin - Lauren Addison

Mack - Delaney Roberts

Teacher - Annie Garside

Fighting Prawn - Jubilee McBrayer-Donath

Hawking Clam - Jacob Deutschmann

Pirate Ensemble - Mahalie Moore

Pirate Ensemble - Chloe Porter

Priate Ensemble - Brooklyn Reynolds

Pirate Ensemble - Ivy Sarant

Pirate Ensemble - Ellen Shelton

Roger Cast

Black Stache - Sam Siceloff

Molly Aster - Mary Catherine Gabrielli

Boy/Peter - Annie Pregnall

Lord Leonard Aster - Nati Glowacki

Mrs. Bumbrake - Caitlynn Niccum

Ted - Olivia Hess

Prentiss - Paden Herbig

Greggors/Smee - Vanessa Lopez

Bill Slank - Adrianna Cannin

Alf - Kate Potts

Captain Robert Falcon Scott - Olivia Murray

Grempkin - Camila Salas

Mack - Talon Price

Teacher - JahZara Kelker

Fighting Prawn - Carter Cantrell

Hawking Clam - Leah McArtor

Pirate Ensemble - Cayden Atkins

Pirate Ensemble - Caylah Atkins

Pirate Ensemble - Myles Counts

Pirate Ensemble - Carson Elliot

Pirate Ensemble - Gia Gupta-Kagan

Pirate Ensemble - Essence Johnson

Safety Procedures

Our first priority is the safety of our staff, actors and audience as we face the COVID-19 crisis.

TEST TEST TEST TEST

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 14:22:32 GMT

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The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source.

Nora's Ark

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:46:15 GMT

What You Need to Know:

Who: Actors in grades 1-5 (21-22 school year)

When: Auditions will be held on Sunday, January 23rd from 2-4pm, and Monday, January 24th from 6-8.

Where: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (3400 Forest Drive). Enter through the stage door.

Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately two hours.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form Updated 1.17.22)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
Auditionees do not need to prepare anything for auditions, come as you are! During auditions, actors will be asked to learn an excerpt of a song, a short dance combination, and will possibly read some lines from the script. Please wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes.
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition.

IMPORTANT INFO

There will be a mandatory parent/actor meeting before our read-through on January 31st at 6:30pm. The meeting shouldn’t take more than 15-20 minutes. The read-through will then be 7:00-8:30 that evening.
Rehearsals begin January 31. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons.
Performances will be March 11-13 at Columbia College’s Cottingham College.

March 11 @7pm
March 12 @ 2pm and 7pm
March 13 @ 3pm

Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning February 28.
Masks and social distancing (3 ft) will be required throughout the rehearsal process regardless of vaccination status.

About the Show

Director: Jerry Stevenson

Musical Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Rachel Brown

Stage Manager: Olivia Bell

Performances: March 11-13, 2022

Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:35:41 GMT

What You Need to Know:

Who: Actors in grades 9-12 (21-22 school year).

When: Auditions will be held on Sunday, February 20th 3-4:30pm & Monday, February 21st 6:30-8pm.

Where: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (3400 Forest Drive)

Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately an hour and a half.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
Review the following R&G Audition Packet (pdf file). Choose one monologue from the packet to memorize for auditions. Sides do not need to be memorized. *Please wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes to auditions.*
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition.

IMPORTANT INFO

ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST BE VACCINATED FOR COVID-19.
Our read-thru will take place Monday, February 28th from 7-9pm at CCT.
Rehearsals begin February 28th, and will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons.
Performances will be April 1-3 at Saluda Shoals Park.
Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning March 21st.
Masks and social distancing (3 ft) will be required throughout the rehearsal process.

About the Show

Director: Paul Lindley II

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Performances: April 1-3, 2022

Peter & The Starcatcher Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 13:21:21 GMT

What You Need to Know:

Who: actors in grades 6-8 (21-22 school year).

When: Auditions will be held on Sunday, December 5th from 3-4:30pm and Monday, December 6th from 6-7:30pm.

Where: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (3400 Forest Drive) Enter through the stage door.

Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately an hour and a half.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
Actors will be asked to read sides at each audition session. Please wear comfortable clothing and close-toed shoes.
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition.

Important Info

There will be a mandatory parent/actor meeting before our read-through on Dec. 13th at 6pm. The meeting shouldn’t take more than 15-20 minutes. The read-through will then be 6:30-8:30 that evening.
Rehearsals begin Dec. 13. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons.
Performances will be January 28-30 at CCT.

January 28 @7pm
January 29 @ 2pm and 7pm
January 30 @ 3pm

Rehearsal conflicts will not be accepted beginning January 17th. *Note: we will be off for two weeks for the holidays, Dec. 20-Jan. 3.
Masks and social distancing (3 ft) will be required throughout the rehearsal process regardless of vaccination status.

About the Show

Director: Julian Deleon

Stage Manager: Olivia Bell

Tony-winning Peter and the Starcatcher upends the century-old story of how a miserable orphan comes to be The Boy Who Would Not Grow Up (a.k.a. Peter Pan).

Conversations: Ilene Fins

William@timothysinclair.com (William Mitchell) — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 15:11:32 GMT

Ragtime & The Jewish Experience in America: A Conversation With Ilene Fins

In preparation for this weekend's shows, Ragtime Director Julian Deleon sat down Midlands Tech professor Ilene Fins for a conversation about family, the Jewish experience in America, and why Ragtime stays to relevant to the American story years later. Ragtime will run on the Harbison Theatre stage November 11-13. For more information on ticketing and showtimes, visit the show's page here.

Ilene, thank you for stopping by the office to share some of your insights with us as we get ready for Ragtime!

Thanks for having me! Always happy to chat.

To start off, could you tell us a little bit about yourself and your role at Midlands Tech?

My name is Ilene Fins, and I am a theater artist and teacher here in Columbia, South Carolina. I am a full-time theater instructor, the only one that's full-time, actually. I teach Theater 101: Introduction to Theater, which is a theater appreciation course. I've also, in the past, taught beginning acting or acting fundamentals class.

Do you think theatre education has value for folks who won't go on to work in the arts?

Of course! You don't have to want to be an actor to take an acting class, right? It gives you confidence in speaking. It's good for business, it's good for education majors. It's just a matter of making people see that side, right? Public speaking is essential in everything, really, I think that's the key thing.

Absolutely. So tell me a little about your story. Did you grow up in Columbia?

My family moved here from Brooklyn, or from New York. They lived on Long Island. I was born in a Brooklyn hospital, my parents are from Brooklyn. They moved to Columbia, South Carolina, when I was almost two years old. I'm the youngest of four. That was 1964.

My mother always told me stories about that transition. We did StoryCorps one time, and she was telling me that she, with my dad and some people from his office, went to a Howard Johnson's that was right across the Blossom Street Bridge. In walked a bowling team, and on the back of their shirts was the KKK. It was the KKK bowling team. She said she looked at my father and said, "Where you have brought me?"

(Laughter) So why Columbia?

Actually, there are a lot of Jews here from their old neighborhood. I can't remember who was first, but my aunt and her husband had moved here before my parents, but I think they're all of my parents' age, so they're all gone now, all of these older people who were from the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn, or my mom was from Brighton Beach. But it was sort of like, "Come on down." I used to say to my mom, "Gosh, if you had stayed in New York, I would have gone to LaGuardia High School, the “Fame" school, she's like, "We couldn't afford you to go to college. It would have been too expensive." So that's how we ended up here.

My parents, however, were born in New York, but their parents were not. Their parents were immigrants. So, my mom's family was from Bessarabia, Russia, Russian immigrants. My grandfather, who I'm named after, came over after the Czar died. He was a Trotskyite, Russian soldier, and he came over. In New York, they had all these social clubs. Immigrants lived in and congregated in neighborhoods of the same ilk, villages, whatever. They'd have social clubs. He met my grandma there, who was also from Russia. My mom said they came over in steerage class in the boat.

What does steerage class mean?

That's the lowest. If you remember the Titanic.

Yeah.

Leonardo DiCaprio.

So literally the bottom.

The bottom.

Oh my gosh.

My father's family was from Turkey, who were Spanish Jews that left Spain during the Inquisition and settled in Turkey. He and his brothers came to America. They were business people. They came over first class, so different. They had money in Turkey, and he had a furniture store.

My mom’s dad bought a set of Funk and Wagnall encyclopedias when he came to America to teach himself English. He was a furrier for coats, designing stuff. My grandmother’s brother was in a Broadway musical called Pins and Needles. He was a garment worker.

I pick up these stories where I can. Supposedly, my father's mother had been kidnapped from her village in Turkey, because she was the most beautiful girl. This could be a story that was completely made up and told to me as a child. I have no idea. But just some interesting stuff back there.

That's such an interesting story. So coming from immigrants, what was your own transition like coming to Columbia?

Because I grew up here in Columbia, I would say to my mom... Often, I was the only Jewish kid in my class, and I was always like, "What's this mean? What's that? Why don't we have a Christmas tree?" Whatever, just not knowing what's what. For her, growing up in Brooklyn, everybody in her neighborhood was Jewish. The teachers at the schools were. The schools closed for the Jewish holidays. I just was like- "Wow, what would that be like?"

Her parents, coming to America, they tried to Americanize as much as possible. When their parents, who came over with them, when they died, they no longer kept kosher. They kind of let Judaism fall away a bit. I didn't learn very much. I was not raised religious at all. We celebrated holidays, but I didn't really understand. Anything I learned, I learned on my own as an adult.

Did you know that you always wanted to study theater?

Well, I wanted to be a Rockette, but I remember saying that. I just wanted to be a dancer. Who didn't want to be a dancer?

Everybody wants to be a dancer.

My mom was like, "You're too short to be a Rockette. They have to be 5'10"." I was like, (laughter) I just, "Please, please, may I have dance lessons?" Third grade, I started ballet. I did five years of ballet and it hurt my foot, and those toe shoes were so painful, so then I did one year of jazz and I was like, "I'm so used to ballet, I can't do this jazz thing," and then I took a drama class.

In ninth grade, I took a drama class at Dent Junior High. I was like, "Oh, well this is fun," because I was painfully, painfully shy. But I wanted attention. I wanted to be famous, I wanted to be a star, all that kind of stuff, but just so, super shy. I took a drama class in ninth grade, then I did another class in tenth grade when I went to Spring Valley. Then, I got cast in The Children's Hour. I just had two lines, one of the girls, wasn't even in act two, kind of thing. But, we would also go and do ETV extra work. I did a lot of that in high school. I did stuff at ETV, filming. But I was going to be a lawyer. I said I was going to be a lawyer.

In my senior year of high school, I started doing more theater. That's when Jim Thigpen came to my high school, senior year. I went away to college to study political science and theater, but one summer... I used to work as a day camp counselor every summer at the Jewish Community Center, I worked with this woman who was a dancer, and she was telling me her mom ran a dance school, and when she graduated high school, she wanted to go to the Grand Ole Opry to audition, and she didn't because she stayed home and got married and worked at her mom's dance school. She's like, "I'll never know."

Wow

Changed my life. That was the summer between freshman and sophomore year of college, and I was like, "No way am I going to live with regret."

So I started doing theater. Clemson at that time had a minor [no major], but they were really good. Larry Hembree was there, he's my mentor, and we did excellent theater. We went to The Kennedy Center. I've got a big medallion for that. It was the best education, because I ended up with an English degree and a minor in theater, but I was so well-prepared when I went to grad school, because I could write papers, I could analyze, and theater was an extracurricular activity, so I knew all about

discipline, about doing the stuff I didn't want to do to get to the stuff that I did want to do. So I had an incredible work ethic, ensemble training. Wasn't about me, no stars, none of that stuff. We did everything. I designed lights, I stage managed, I acted, I directed, you know?

Then, I went to grad school and I thought, "This is where it's really going to begin." The very first audition I had in grad school, I remember, for South Pacific, and this girl, we're all in a line, probably a dance call, and she pushed her way in front of me. We became friends later, but at the time I was like, "Nobody's ever done that to me... We're doing a play and we're an ensemble and we're all together." I'm pie-eyed. I still feel that way, because it's not about you, it's about the whole. That sort of led into why I became an educator, a theater educator.

After grad school I worked at Flatrock Playhouse. I was an intern, we got paid [as opposed to apprentices]. We got some stage time, but we did still do all the grunt work. So, I'm working on props on this show and an actor comes up to the prop master and he's like, "Could you come here?" There was sawdust on the prop table. I was like, "What was that about?" I thought, "What kind of actor?" You know? Who trained him? Where in his training did he learn that he was so above wiping a little dust off a prop table?

Right, or just even ignoring it.

I thought... "I want to teach kids theater so they don't grow up to be [jerks]."

That leads into my next question. What do you enjoy about teaching theater to young adults?

I've worked with third graders on up, but then kind of really worked with high school students because I can be a bit intense, as you can imagine from my directing. It's best for me to work with high school students and above. There's two different things. I've worked in places like the Seattle Children's Theatre or a performing arts high school where these kids are seriously talented and intense and I'm watching them on TV now, some of my former students. Just that energy, just to be able to be in that presence and help them craft and make connections is amazing, but there is something really cool when you have students, and this is what I love about teaching at the community college level, where there is a diverse population. My students are anywhere from 16 to 60 years old. I have a 50-year-old woman working with an 18-year-old who's a freshman, right? Because people come back and go to school. You have this wide net, but I also have students who have never stepped foot in a theater or seen a play. Now, I'm showing them the world of theater and they're like, "I had no idea."

In my classes now, I have recorded interviews with all my friends who work all over the country in theater, and I have them talk about how they started or what they're doing now, because I also have some friends who used to do theater and have degrees in theater, but now - like one friend who is a VP in marketing for a seafood company. He said, "I got hired because I could talk to people."

And that's generally what it is.

Yes, it's communication and knowing how to deal with people and understanding what motivates people. It's really exciting that you could love theater and be a grant writer. People think theater, acting- but what about the person who makes something or sells something, or, like I said, the marketing or concessions? It's all part of it. We're all working together to do it, and telling students about dramaturgy for the first time they're like, "I like researching. This is so cool.” I have students who are like, "I never thought about this." Sometimes, they don't get it right away, because we always ask them at the end of the semester, "How will you apply this?” Some say, "Oh, nothing. I don't want to be an actor." But then there are others who are like - "It's opened my eyes." Often, you have students who come back later and they're like, they'll never watch a play, a movie, a TV show the same way because they can analyze the script, how it's made, the lighting choices, the costume choices, why is that character in that color and that fabric texture?

Right? They had never thought about anything like that before. You're ruining them a little bit, too.

That's what I tell them. You know it's good when you sit down and you're just wrapped up in the story. But then, you go see something and it's boring, and then you're like, "Well, what kind of ellipsoidal is that? What's the lighting?"

That brings us to Ragtime. My question is twofold. When did you first see Ragtime and what were your thoughts?

Sure. Well, I read the book, I think I was in eighth grade. It came out in '76, the book? It was a big, adult book, and I read it.

I loved it, because I love that it tells so many stories, so many people's stories. That's what America is, right? This melting pot. I mean, that's the idealized version of America, anyway, I think. Then, they made it into a musical. I saw it on tour. I was living in Seattle. The music is just so powerful. And, to know that part of my immigrant family story is told, right? The Sephardic Jews from Turkey and the Ashkenazi Jews from Russia.

This story, the immigrants in the play are just my mother's side of the family [Ashkenazi], but that idea of coming to a new country and assimilating and making money for a better life and all of those things. There's that part of the story, but there's so much more. I mean, of course there's just so much more in that. I think it's so interesting that you're doing this show now.

Which is another great question. Why do you think it's relevant?

Well, this is interesting, Julian, because today in my theater class, we talked about the “BIPOC Demands for White American Theatre”, so just sort of where we are culturally as a country and starting with the land acknowledgement - that we don't even talk about on whose land we are on. It's very important to know your history and to get it right. Because I know there are so many things I don't remember being taught. When I moved out West to Seattle, it was like, "Japanese internment camps? What? I don't remember learning that." Growing up in the South, I think there's a lot of history that is... what would be the word? It's taught in a way... it's so watered down.

That's a good word. I will say, to not put words in your mouth, but when we initially started this production, that is what some of our participants were worried about going into it, was that if we censor the show too much, it's going to water down the American experience of what it was.

You can't do that anymore. I was explaining to my students today... I don't usually talk about personal stuff in school, but I was like, "Growing up here in 1964, I felt like an “other." I have never thought of myself as white. Then, I could see all my students of color roll their eyes and I'm like, "Oh, I know. I hear you. I hear you," because now I understand that when I walk through the door, I have white privilege, but, when we moved here, we weren't allowed certain places. We couldn't live in Spring Valley. We couldn't belong to any of those country clubs. There were places we could not go, and I was told "No Jews, no Blacks, no Catholics." It was like there was a lot of segregation and antisemitism, kids that wouldn't play with me once their moms found out I was Jewish, I was like, "How come I don't get invited to your party anymore?" "Oh, my mom found out you were Jewish. I can't play with her." There's so many people that had that experience and we have to reconcile with that, and we have to do better. It's time that America does that.

So yeah, what a great way, through theater. This is what theater can do. This is why we have theater, because we can talk about things, we can laugh about things, we can cry, we can listen to this beautiful music and it can open your eyes and change your world and change your life. That's why we do theater. For one person. You have 50 people in the audience, but one person gets it, job done. Job done. That's why we do it.

I agree. This season, speaking on the ideas of the needs of BIPOC and in general cultural equity, we as a theater at CCT, have tried to steer our focus more towards socially relevant material. We opened with Grace for President, we're doing Ragtime. We actually have a main stage production of Akeelah and the Bee. We're really focusing on telling these stories. When it comes to Ragtime, why do you think it's important for young people to engage and see a show like this?

Because... and we were talking about that today in my class, too, and every single student agreed that with theater, you want to see yourself on stage, you want your story to be told, and, by seeing other stories, you learn empathy, because it's human. It's a human story. I may not be able to relate to what Sarah goes through. It's not my experience, but I can have empathy for her and for her experience, and all of those characters. That's the thing, but who's to say that there's some little kid in the audience whose great grandpa, by this time, emigrated from Poland or whatever. Then, you can have a conversation with your family. Where are we from? Because unless you're one of the indigenous tribes, you came from somewhere else. You're not from here. I think people forget that and politics aside, that's the thing. What are you thinking? Because somebody came here to push somebody else out.

Correct. The reason I'm so passionate about the show, specifically with the group that we're doing it with, because this generation that's going forward, these juniors and seniors in high school are very engaged in the cultural shift that this world is about to take.

How do you think Judaism and the Jewish culture is represented in theatre? I know that's a big, old question.

I can think of the times that I feel like I've seen myself represented. Not a lot. Thank goodness for Neil Simon, right? But it's really just more like that New York kind of comedy, but come on, they're all Jews, right?

Really the first lead role I ever had... after grad school, I moved back to Columbia to work at Trustus. They hired two actors, and Stan Brown and I got hired as full-time actors. They did Wendy Wassterstein's Isn't it Romantic. I essentially was playing myself. I was 26 years old or 27 years old playing a 27-year-old Jewish girl, you know? Wore my own clothes for costume. You just don't see it a lot. I don't, especially not in Columbia. Because there are larger cities that have Jewish theaters, dedicated to that. In New York, they have a Yiddish theater. I kind of wanted to go see Fiddler on the Roof in Yiddish. Even though I wouldn't understand, still, it's just that cool thing. I think about that every time I go to New York and I'm walking around on the Upper West Side. I'm like, "Look at all the Jews." I'm one, too. It has nothing to do with religion. It's purely a cultural heritage kind of thing, nothing about religion at all. I think it's interesting for everyone to look at history.

Speaking of cultural representation and stuff, specifically with Ragtime, how do you think the musical or the story, how do you think it pushes forward the Jewish story specifically?

I think it does a good job of showing the struggles Jewish immigrants had to keep their families and their culture together. People have tried to wipe us out for so long. I mean, my grandmother, the Russian grandmother, when she was little, her village was raided by Cossacks in a pogrom. When she took my oldest sister to see Fiddler on the Roof when the movie came out, that opening scene when the village is raided, my grandma leaned down to Viky and said, "It was just like that." She was traumatized the rest of her life. We didn't know it was PTSD. She had mental health problems. People are still leaving their homes because of X, Y, Z, whatever it is, so it's important to know that. It's important to know people's stories. Stories deserve to be told and heard and listened to. Think about it, because we all inhabit the planet, right?

Which is what makes story telling so important.

I think everything: theater, education today, is about expanding that world, because you can live in your own little bubble, especially depending on what you choose to watch and listen to and stay home and if you don't travel, I think travel's very important. I understand that not everybody can afford to travel, but that's what's so important about this kind of thing, that you can see a story and you can learn something about somebody so completely different from your background.

Well thanks again for sharing your story today. Any questions for me?

The music sounds so hard to me. I'm not a singer, I'm not a music person, but it seems so hard to me. Is it?

It is. I will tell you, as the director of this, and I'm not one of those that I'm like, "Oh, my stuff is so great, but yeah, there's 34 of them, the music is a huge feat, and the CCTeens are truly amazing. Nothing about this music is easy - and they are doing an amazing job.

Are the teens engaging with the material?

Absolutely. And its been a process not only learning music, touching on really difficult topics of racism, racial inequality, and gender inequality. Not only did you have Blacks, whites, Jews and that segregation, you also had what a woman was supposed to do at that time versus what a man was supposed to do and what children were required to do and this idea of it was so looked down upon to have even a child out of wedlock. These things that you're looking at now that you're like, "We're over a hundred years from when this was set and it's still stuff that people talk about." I'd love to say that we're past that, but the conversation is ongoing

I think that's the thing I love about it, the weaving of these underlying themes with the music. You can hear the stifledness of New Rochelle versus the kind of cultural rhythms of the immigrants versus that kind of sway of Ragtime for the people of Harlem.

It's not a fluff piece musical.

No, it really isn't. It's not. I talk to people, I'm like, "They're doing Ragtime," and everybody's like, "What? Is it a junior? Is it a high school version?" I'm like - no it's the real thing.

And we are excited to perform it. Ilene thank you so much for chatting with us and sharing your story!

Thanks for having me!

Conversations: Monica L. Patton

William@timothysinclair.com (William Mitchell) — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 13:34:14 GMT

Ragtime & The Path to Broadway: A Conversation With Monica L. Patton

In preparation for our production of Ragtime, we sat down with original Ragtime cast member Monica L. Patton for a conversation about Ragtime, art, and building a career in the theatre. Ragtime will run on the Harbison Theatre stage November 11-13. For more information on ticketing and showtimes, visit the show's page here.

Monica, thank you for joining us this afternoon! I’m excited to have the opportunity to chat with you and share a little bit about your experience with our audience.

No problem! I’m happy to do it.

So I want to start off with the basics. Did you always know you wanted to be in the theatre?

I wanted to be two things as a child: either a singer or a butterfly (laughter) . As much as I travel I feel like I’ve achieved both.

(Laughter) That makes sense. So how did you go from singer/butterfly to getting involved in theatre?

I was always very creative and artistic. I used to write poetry and I was very introspective as a kid. My mom was a retired social worker at a mental hospital - so in our house we were often asked why we did what we did. We were introspective and I knew that creativity was my happy space.

I come from a very blue collar working class background in Ohio - they all worked at Chrysler or Ford. They were all very intelligent but working class, so they were creative but never really pursued it. When I chose the arts path - they said: ”Go forth. We don’t understand it, but go for it and keep doing what you're doing.

That’s great that you had such support. How do you think it impacted you having the support of your family as you pursued your career?

It was huge. When you’re a child you're at such an impressionable age - you may have a lot of dreams but they aren’t tangible without positive guidance. We are all nature and nurture, and you need someone to nurture you to be your best self, to be courageous - being an artist is courageous. I look back, and I was rarely unemployed for someone who’s a freelancer, but I made the decision that this is what I’m going to do. I have to be that journeyman and work towards that goal and put myself on the line.

As an artist you’re a hero - to get out in front of thousands of people and pour your heart out - that starts young. People that are nurturing children and telling them that when they fall to get up it's okay - and when you fall to get up. We need people like that.

So how did you get from Ohio to New York?

That’s easy - you just hop on 80-E and keep driving. (laughter)

(Laughter) Okay that’s fair. Better question: how did you decide to move to New York to pursue the arts. Tell me about that journey.

Well at first I was classically trained in voice, and I thought I was going to sing opera - I was enamored with the life. I wanted the furs and the Svengalis (laughter) . My mom took me to see Carmen and it was too boring so I went to school for dance instead. To graduate from dance school in my last year I figured out I would have to stay another year just to study Spanish - but that didn’t seem worth it. I had friends who skipped school and were already building careers, so I moved to Chicago to get started and started apprenticing with Joseph Holmes Chicago Dance theatre. Chicago Dance theatre.

And I had always been strategic with my summers. I had built up my resume in college, so after working in Chicago and having these internships I was set up to move to New York and I got cast in a tour of Oklahoma. From there it was like - boom boom boom.

I got to New York in the early 90’s and commercial/corporate theatre was just about to explode. When I went to get measured for Ragtime we were measured at the Gershwin Theatre and I was like - this is crazy! Back in the day you auditioned on Broadway stages you were in the actual theatre. I remember I had an audition for Victor Victoria - I was 5 2’ standing up against 5 10’ and 6 ft. I think they kept me because they thought I was cute! (laughter) It was right on the edge where the theatre got very corporate. A lot of good things came with that like pension, vacation , and sick time, but we definitely lost some of the energy. Back then it was the Wild West and you were just running from show to show.

So you mentioned earlier that Ragtime was your first Broadway show. What was that process like?

I got a call out of the below that they were doing a new jazz show going to Broadway. They knew a mutual friend/colleague I had worked with in Joseph and the Technicolor Dream Coat and they were looking for dancers. They said if you get cast you have to live in Toronto for a year - and I just thought - great let’s do it!

So I go to the first audition - back then maybe you’d get the producer and the director at auditions - but this time there were 5 people and then I had 5 callbacks. On the last callback there were 20 people. They had to have risers! The director was so effusive and happy. I remember looking at 20 people - and it was a little overwhelming. It was auditioned by committee. We had the director - assistant to the director - the assistant to the assistant director - it was a machine. But I got the part as a lead dancer.

Then the understudy left to do the Lion King so they asked if I would understudy - I was loving being a lead dancer - but I went and sang my heart out anyway and I got the understudy role too. Then there were more committees - in one understudy rehearsal I had 8 people telling me where to turn my head!

How did it feel being on Broadway for the first time?

I’ll tell you a story. I remember we were about to go on stage for the first time, and people started waxing poetic and giving these long speeches. Then Judy K went last and just said, “Well, you’re going to spend the rest of your life trying to stay on Broadway or get back.” I thought that was great because she never lied! (laughter)

Why do you think that Ragtime has stayed so relevant almost two decades later?

In regards to Ragtime - it's a masterpiece. The themes still ring true today - racial reckoning, gender equality, racial equality, economic equality. There are a lot real-life scenarios that are still happening today. Ragtime is both timeless and timely.

What would you say to someone who’s thinking about building a career in theatre but they are on the fence?

You can’t like it. You have to love it. Because getting into theater or any art is a marriage. Sometimes it’s 50/50, sometimes it gives, sometimes it takes. It’s the love that keeps it going. I can do a lot of things - even when I had to have a survival job. I used to do a lot of exec. admin work but I loved it, because putting on the suit was a role to me, and I find art in everything.

Be honest to the degree you want to do it. You can live a full life in community theatre. One the actors in a show I was involved with recently was a full blown doctor, but after 5:00 he’s a full blown actor in community theatre and he finds it very fulfilling.

What do you have to say to the CCTeens performing Ragtime this weekend?

I think it’s great because it’s not just another show. Ragtime is iconic - and I love that young people are stepping in big shoes because it will teach them to walk tall.

Monica, thank you so much again for making time for us!

Thank you for having me!

For more information on ticketing and showtimes for Ragtime. Visit the show page here: www.columbiachildrenstheatre.com/ragtime

Ragtime

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 11:34:45 GMT

About the Show

Director: Julian Deleon

Music Director: Christyne McClellan

Choreographer: Rachel Brown

Stage Manager: Olivia Bell

Written by the award-winning composer/lyricist team of Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens (Once on This Island, Seussical and Lucky Stiff), noted playwright Terrence McNally, and based on E.L. Doctorow's distinguished novel, Ragtime is the winner of the 1998 Tony Awards for Best Score, Book and Orchestrations, and both the Drama Desk and Outer Critics Circle Awards for Best Musical and Best Score. Called by TIME Magazine "A triumph for the stage," and by the International Herald Tribune "the best musical in twenty years," this acclaimed musical is filled with pageantry, emotion and hope, bursting onto the stage like no other musical.

At the dawn of a new century, everything is changing... and anything is possible. Set in the volatile melting pot of turn-of-the-century New York, three distinctly American tales are woven together – that of a stifled upper-class wife, a determined Jewish immigrant and a daring young Harlem musician – united by their courage, compassion and belief in the promise of the future. Together, they confront history's timeless contradictions of wealth and poverty, freedom and prejudice, hope and despair... and what it means to live in America.

*Trigger Warning: Please be advised this production contains racist and offensive language, physical violence, and murder. The presentation and discussion of systemic racism and historical inequities for Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC), immigrants, and females during the early 1900s may be difficult and traumatic to experience. Viewer discretion is advised.

Showtimes

Thursday, November 11th 7:00 PM

Friday November 12th 7:00 PM

Saturday, November 13th 2:00 PM

Saturday, November 13th 7:00 PM

Performances will be held at Harbison Theatre Midlands Tech ( 7300 College St Irmo SC 29063) .

Safety Procedures

Our first priority is the safety of our staff, actors and audience as we face the COVID-19 crisis.

In light of the CDC's recommendations , we are requesting that all patrons and volunteers attending a performance wear a mask in the lobby and theatre, regardless of vaccination status. We will have masks available for patrons who did not bring one.

Advanced tickets are strongly recommended as walk-in sales will not be available once we have reached capacity.

Learn how we're working to ensure that our performances meet the highest standard for safety in our COVID-19 Guidelines.

A Special Invitation From Broadway's Monica L. Patton

Frozen Jr. Cast Resources

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Mon, 13 Sep 2021 17:12:10 GMT

Hello Frozen Jr. cast members and parents! Below, you'll find valuable information to help make the most of our experience together during this show, including staff contact details and information about rehearsals, costumes and performances.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to Stage Manager Sadie Carr (sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com).

Staff Information

Director: Paul Lindley II
Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Frozen Jr.

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 21:39:10 GMT

About the Show

Written by: Jennifer Lee

Music and Lyrics: Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez

Director & Music Director: Paul Lindley II
Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Appropriate for: All Ages

Runtime: 60 min

Frozen Jr. is based on the 2018 Broadway musical, and brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life, onstage. The show features all of the memorable songs from the animated film, with music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, plus five new songs written for the Broadway production. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen Jr. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen Jr. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart!

Showtimes

Friday, October 15, 7:00 PM

Saturday, October 16th, 2:00 PM

Saturday, October 16th, 7:00 PM

Sunday, October 17th, 3:00 PM

Performances will be held at Meadow Glen Middle

School 440 Ginny Ln, Lexington, SC 29072.

Safety Procedures

Our first priority is the safety of our staff, actors and audience as we face the COVID-19 crisis.

Ragtime Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 21:10:10 GMT

What You Need to Know:

Who: actors in grades 7-12 (21-22 school year).

When: Sunday, September 19th at 3:00 PM and Monday, September 20th at 6:30 PM

Where: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (3400 Forest Drive) Enter through the stage door.

Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately 2 hours.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
Auditionees will be asked to perform one song from the following selections:

Actors may also be asked to read sides at each audition session
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition.
Rehearsals begin September 28. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. Performances will be November 11-13 at Harbison Theatre (link opens in Google Maps).
Masks and social distancing (3 ft) will be required throughout the rehearsal process regardless of vaccination status.

About the Show

Director: Julian Deleon

Music Director: Christyne McClellan

Choreographer: Rachel Brown

Stage Manager: Olivia Bell

Grace for President

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Thu, 09 Sep 2021 18:11:40 GMT

About the Show

Written by: Joah Cushing (Based on Kelly S. DiPucchio's book Grace For President)

Director: Jerry Stevenson
Music Director: Christyne McClellan
Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Appropriate for: All Ages

Runtime: 5 0 minutes

Grace for President tells the story of a girl, who, stunned to discover that all U.S. presidents have been men, decides to kick off her own political career by running for president of her class. She faces off against a popular boy and wins in a surprising way. The lesson? That women - whether Grace, Kamala Harris or anyone in the audience - can run for office, win, and lead.

Based on the book by Kelly S. DiPucchio and adapted for the stage by Joah Cushing, this musical about girl power is an entertaining hit for all ages and audiences.

CCT is excited to bring this musical production of Grace for President to the CMFA stage. In addition to offering an inspiring perspective on the opportunities for women in America, the show serves as a great primer for young people on the electoral process and drives home the critical role of character in leadership. With a perfect balance of humour, music, and education - it’s a great fit for the whole family.

Showtimes

Friday, October 1, 7:00 PM

Saturday, October 2, 2:00 PM

Saturday, October 2, 7:00 PM
Sunday, October 3, 3:00 PM

Scroll down for the cast list.

Performances will be held at CMFA 914 Pulaski Street Columbia, SC 29201

Safety Procedures

Our first priority is the safety of our staff, actors and audience as we face the COVID-19 crisis.

Cast List

Mrs. Barrington Clara Kyland Gadson/Beth DeHart

Grace Campbell Akira Taylor/Erica Cooper

Robbie Thomas Daly/Landon Watts

Sam Elaine Nissen

Rose/Mrs. Phillips Abigail Bast/Jada McClellan

Anthony/Mr. Waller Paul Lindley

Thomas Cobb River Diveley

Featured Photo: Akira Taylor, Grace Campbell

Frozen Jr Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 19:27:13 GMT

What You Need to Know:

Who: actors in grades 1 - 6 (20-21 school year).

When: Sunday, August 29 at 3:00 PM and Monday, August 30 at 6:00 PM

Where: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (3400 Forest Drive) Enter through the stage door.

Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately 2 hours.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (Google Form)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
You will be taught a short choreography routine, and a few lines of one of the songs from the show.
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition.
Rehearsals begin September 7. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. Performances will be October 15-17 at Meadow Glen Middle School (link opens in Google Maps).
Masks and social distancing (3 ft) will be required throughout the rehearsal process regardless of vaccination status.

About the Show

Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Frozen Jr. is based on the 2018 Broadway musical, and brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to life, onstage. The show features all of the memorable songs from the animated film, with music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, plus five new songs written for the Broadway production. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen Jr. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. When faced with danger, the two discover their hidden potential and the powerful bond of sisterhood. With a cast of beloved characters and loaded with magic, adventure, and plenty of humor, Frozen Jr. is sure to thaw even the coldest heart!

2021 Mainstage Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Wed, 04 Aug 2021 16:22:32 GMT

What You Need to Know

CCT is happy to announce the return of our Mainstage season! We were founded as a professional theatre for young audiences (TYA) that uses paid adult actors to perform for families, young audiences, and school groups. Since there were no school field trips during the 2020 COVID-related shutdown, Mainstage went exclusively online. For many school districts field trips will be back on beginning this fall so we will once again be holding auditions for our Mainstage season.

Location
Columbia Children's Theatre in Richland Mall between Belk and Barnes and Noble (please enter from the stage door across from the parking garage.)

Dates
Sunday, August 8th from 3:00-5:00 pm and Monday August 9th from 6:30-8:30 pm. Auditions are "drop-in" style so you may attend at any time during those hours.

Audition Requirements:

Auditions are open to any adults and teens who will be 15 years old by August 2022.
Please prepare 32-64 bars of a Broadway style song to be sung a capella.
We will do cold readings from the scripts. If you have a monologue up and ready to go (meaning memorized cold) then we'd love to hear that as well, but it is not required.
Auditions are drop-in style so you do not need to arrive at the beginning and stay through the entirety. Just plan on being there at least 15 minutes before the end time.
You do not have to be a "singer singer" to audition although most of the shows except for Akeelah and the Bee are musicals, we just want to see if you can "character sell" a song. We may ask you to vocalize with the piano just to test your ear.
Please bring a headshot (optional) and a resume (required) to the audition. We will also have you complete an audition form to get an idea of what shows you might be interested in and of your availability.

Our 2021-22 Season

October - Grace for President

December - The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical

February - Akeelah and the Bee

April - Junie B. Jones: The Musical

June - Commedia-style production, title TBA

If you have any questions, please email Artistic Director Jerry Stevenson .

Safety Procedures

Our first priority is the safety of our staff, actors and audience as we face the COVID-19 crisis. Learn how we're working to ensure that our performances meet the highest standard for safety in our COVID-19 Guidelines.

Chicago

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 18:15:25 GMT

About the Show

Written by: John Kander & Fred Ebb

Director: Paul Lindley
Music Director: Paul Lindley
Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Appropriate for: ages 13 and older

Runtime: 90 minutes

In roaring twenties Chicago, chorine Roxie Hart murders a faithless lover and convinces her hapless husband, Amos, to take the rap...until he finds out he's been duped and turns on Roxie. Convicted and sent to death row, Roxie and another "Merry Murderess," Velma Kelly, vie for the spotlight and the headlines, ultimately joining forces in search of the "American Dream": fame, fortune, and acquittal.

Chicago first opened on Broadway at the 46th Street Theatre in New York City on June 3, 1975. The production, directed and choreographed by Bob Fosse, ran for 936 performances. On Nov 14, 1996, a revival of the show opened on Broadway at the Richard Rodgers Theatre. It latered transferred to Shubert Theatre, and then to the Ambassador Theatre, where, for more than two decades it continued to run, logging nearly 10,000 performances.

Adapted in collaboration with iTheatrics, Kander & Ebb's legendary and award-winning musical about fame, fortune and “all that jazz” is specifically designed to be content-appropriate for middle and high school performers and has been adapted to remove overtly sexual references and adult language. “We plan to return to the original 1975 concept of the play,” says show director and CCT Director of Education Paul Lindley, “which highlighted the world of vaudeville, used sets and costumes!”

Showtimes

July 30, 7:00 PM (Razzle Cast)

July 31, 2:00 (Razzle Cast)
July 31, 7:00 PM (Dazzle Cast)

August 1, 3:00 PM (Dazzle Cast)

Scroll down for cast lists.

Performances will be held at Spring Valley High School, 120 Sparkleberry Ln, Columbia, SC 29229 .

Safety Procedures

In light of the CDC's recommendations on July 27 , we requesting that all patrons and volunteers attending a performance wear a mask in the lobby and theatre, regardless of vaccination status. We will have masks available for patrons who did not bring one.

Cast Lists

RAZZLE CAST

Hannah Barr

Will Barr

Abigail Bast

Franklin Caudle

Eliza Crosby

Thomas Daly

River Diveley

Mel Driggers

Nick Eberhardt

Adelle Fuller

Wellslee Hall

Paden Herbig

Tori Jones

Liam Judge

Emmi Lee

Parker McClean-Hasinger

Jada McClellan

Robert McCreary

Lily Moody

Liv Moody

Fionn O'Connor

Stephen O'Connor

Leah Pennington

Grace Richardson

Delaney Roberts

Anna Swearingen

Landon Watts

DAZZLE CAST

Summer Araya

Henry Barry

Lucy Barry

Mark Blankenship-Brown

Addie Brown

Eliza Brown

Tristian Brown

El Crosby

Kenneth Crosby

Marissa Derrick

Virginia Dunlap

Chloey Frates

Mary Catherine Gabrielli

Joshua Gasdia

Adiel Goutier

Zee Hartley

Sofie Jones

Chase Krawczyk

Ally Montgomery

Holly Nelligan

Leila Pregnall

Maya Schlueter

Cort Stevenson

Kaden Todd

Micah Tolbert

Abi Tourto

Lauren Waters

Kate Weiss

Sam Weiss

Oliver JR

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 17:58:22 GMT

About the Show

Book, Music, and Lyrics by: Lionel Bart

Director: Julian Deleon
Music Director: Christyne McClellan
Choreographer: Rachel Brown

Appropriate for: All Ages

Runtime: 1 Hour

Consider yourself at home with Oliver! JR. , the Broadway Junior version of Lionel Bart's classic musical based on Charles Dickens' novel, Oliver Twist. The Tony and Olivier Award-winning show is one of the few musicals to win an Academy Award for Best Picture and is widely hailed as a true theatrical masterpiece by actors and audience members alike.

The streets of Victorian England come to life as Oliver, a malnourished orphan in a workhouse, becomes the neglected apprentice of an undertaker. Oliver escapes to London and finds acceptance amongst a group of petty thieves and pickpockets led by the elderly Fagin. When Oliver is captured for a theft that he did not commit, the benevolent victim, Mr. Brownlow takes him in. Fearing the safety of his hideout, Fagin employs the sinister Bill Sikes and the sympathetic Nancy to kidnap him back, threatening Oliver’s chances of discovering the true love of a family.

Oliver! JR. i s presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.mtishows.com

Showtimes

July 23, 7:00 PM

July 24, 2:00 & 7:00 PM

July 25, 3:00 PM

Performances will be held at Spring Valley High School, 120 Sparkleberry Ln, Columbia, SC 29229 .

Safety Procedures

Our first priority is the safety of our staff, actors and audience as we face the COVID-19 crisis. To that end, we are only selling 50% of available seats in the theatre. Seating is general admission, and we ask you to leave at least one empty seat between you and other parties. Masks are optional for fully-vaccinated patrons, and non-vaccinated individuals are requested to please wear a mask while in the building. Advanced tickets are strongly recommended as walk-in sales will not be available once we have reached capacity.

Learn how we're working to ensure that our performances meet the highest standard for safety in our COVID-19 Guidelines.

COVID-19 Guidelines

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 19:53:08 GMT

COVID-19 Protocol & Policies for Summer 2022

Updated May 1st, 2022

In accordance with the latest masking guidelines from the CDC , we are lifting our mask requirement for summer camps, rehearsals, and performances.

If you have any questions/concerns about these policies please contact CCT Managing Director Larry Hembree at larry@columbiachildrenstheatre.org or at 803-354-3883 .

Oliver Jr Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Mon, 24 May 2021 19:52:12 GMT

What You Need to Know:

Who: actors in grades 1 - 6 (20-21 school year).

When: Sunday, June 6 at 2 :00PM and Monday, June 7 at 6:30PM

Where: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (3400 Forest Drive) Enter through the stage door.

Please arrive prior to the start time listed above, as we will audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately 2 hours.

Steps to take:

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (pdf file)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
You will be taught a short choreography routine, and a few lines of one of the songs from the show.
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition. Rehearsals begin June 15. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. Performances will be July 23-25, at Spring Valley High School.

About the Show

Director: Julian Deleon

Choreographer: Rachel Brown

Stage Manager: Sarah Krawczyk

Musical theatre’s second favorite orphan (after Annie), Oliver Twist heads the cast of characters of this Jr. version of the 1960 hit musical Oliver! Based on the Charles Dickens novel, 9-year-old orphan Oliver Twist falls in with a group of street-urchin pickpockets led by the Artful Dodger and masterminded by the criminal Fagin. Directed by CCT Artistic Associate Julian Deleon the show features beloved classics like “Where is Love” and “Who Will Buy”, this heart-warming classic is a delight for all ages.

Chicago Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Mon, 24 May 2021 17:57:45 GMT

What You Need to Know:

Auditions for Chicago are open to all actors in grades 7 – 12.

Auditions will take place on Saturday, June 5 at 6:00PM and Sunday, June 6 at 6:00PM .

Please plan to arrive before the start time listed above, as we will all audition as a group. The audition process should take approximately 2 hours.

Fill out the Online Audition Form and Conflict Calendar
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
Be prepared to perform one of the following songs:

Boys – Mister Cellophane (download PDF here)
Girls – Roxie (download PDF here)
Girls – All That Jazz (download PDF here)

You will be taught a short choreography routine
You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition. Rehearsals begin June 15. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. Performances will be July 30-August 1, at Spring Valley High School.

About the Show

Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Sadie Carr

Location: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (directions)

Playbills

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Wed, 12 May 2021 13:03:51 GMT

The Adventures of Robin Hood: Commedia Style

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Sun, 02 May 2021 17:09:34 GMT

About the Show

Written and Directed by: Jerry Stevenson
Appropriate for: All ages
Runtime: 1 Hour

Live theatre is back! The Spaghetti & Meatball Players are taking the stage with their silly summer shenanigans! Join Columbine, Rosetta, Pantalone, Punchin, and Arlequino as they present their all new take on the tale of Robin Hood. This original adaptation is performed in the traditional style of commedia dell'arte, a largely improvisational style of street theatre originating in 16th century Italy. With lots of physical comedy, audience interaction, jokes, and surprises, this hilarious "fractured fairy tale" will delight children and adults of all ages!

Performances will take place on the Environmental Center outdoor deck at Saluda Shoals Park . Ticket sales will be limited to allow for safe distancing of audience members. Patrons are requested to wear masks when not seated for the performance. We also recommend bringing a personal lawn chair (there will be some folding chairs available).

Show Times
Thursday, May 13 | 7:00PM
Sunday, May 16 | 4:00PM

Saluda Shoals Park
5605 Bush River Road
Columbia, SC 29212

A Midsummer Night's Dream

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 21:03:53 GMT

About the Show

Director: Cathy Brookshire

Appropriate for: 13 and older

Runtime: 1 Hour

Once upon a summer evening, four young lovers flee into The Woods, only to discover strange things happen there! With a forest full of fantastical fairies, a truly terrible troop of actors, this is a play of enchantment and an insightful portrait of the predicaments of love. There’s magic, mayhem and mistaken identity - all caused by “that shrewd and knavish sprite” Puck—and for a while, the whole world is thrown out of joint. But what fun to join in the dream, knowing lives will be transformed in wonderful ways, and by daylight all will be well. Roles will be doubled, songs sung, music played. Featuring our CCTeen actors in grades 7-12.

Showtimes

Friday, May 14 | 7:00PM

Sunday, May 16 | 6:00PM

Performances will take place on the Environmental Center outdoor deck at Saluda Shoals Park. Ticket sales will be limited to allow for safe distancing of audience members. Patrons are requested to wear masks when not seated for the performance. We also recommend bringing a personal lawn chair (there will be some folding chairs available).

Saluda Shoals Park
5605 Bush River Road
Columbia, SC 29212

Safety Procedures

Midsummer Nights Dream Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Mon, 08 Mar 2021 21:01:02 GMT

What You Need to Know

Ages: Grades 7-12

Audition Registrations Accepted: March 22 - April 4

Registration: Sign up to audition here.

Monologues: Choose 1 monologue from these options.

To audition, please register at the registration link above. Please submit a video recording performing 1 of the monologues from the options provided by emailing audition@columbiachildrenstheatre.com . Please include your name and grade in the body of the email.

MUSICIANS/SINGERS: We are also looking for people who can sing and/or play the guitar, ukulele, or percussion. Singers, please include, along with your monologue in your audition video, a brief acapella song. Musicians, please include along with your monologue in your audition video, a sample of you playing your instrument.

Rehearsals will take place at Columbia Children’s Theatre and will be run safely with guidance from our COVID-19 task force . Policies and protocols will be emailed to you.

Performances are scheduled for May 14-16 at Saluda Shoals Park. (Times TBD)

Please direct any questions to Sadie Carr at sadie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

About the Show

Director: Cathy Brookshire

Once upon a summer evening, four young lovers flee into The Woods, only to discover strange things happen there! With a forest full of fantastical fairies, a truly terrible troop of actors, this is a play of enchantment and an insightful portrait of the predicaments of love.There’s magic, mayhem and mistaken identity - all caused by “that shrewd and knavish sprite” Puck—and for a while, the whole world is thrown out of joint. But what fun to join in the dream, knowing lives will be transformed in wonderful ways, and by daylight all will be well. Roles will be doubled, songs sung, music played.

Safety Procedures

The Outsiders

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 18:18:14 GMT

About the Show

Director: Paul Lindley

Appropriate for: 13 and older

Runtime: 1 Hour

The Outsiders, a play based on the novel by S.E. Hinton, is seen through the eyes of Ponyboy, a Greaser on the wrong side of life who is caught up in territorial battles between the have-it-made rich kids, "The Socs," and his tough, underprivileged family and friends. As these young people try to find themselves and each other, the sadness of sophistication begins to reach them, and change them.

Showtimes

The Outsiders will premiere virtually on April 16th. Click here for tickets.

Safety Procedures

The Outsiders Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Thu, 04 Feb 2021 16:14:36 GMT

What You Need to Know

Ages: Grades 7-9

Audition Registrations Accepted: February 8th -19th

Registration: Sign up to audition here.

Monologues: Choose 1 monologue from these options.

Rehearsals will take place at Columbia Children’s Theatre and will be run safely with guidance from our COVID-19 task force . Policies and protocols will be emailed to you. Several zoom gatherings of all parents/caregivers will be required before rehearsals begin to explain the procedures and policies and to answer any questions.

Performances will be shown through a virtual premiere on April 16th . The show will be pre-recorded on March 28th .

Please direct any questions to Sallie Best at sallie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

About the Show

Director: Paul Lindley

"The Outsiders," a play based on the novel by S.E. Hinton, seen through the eyes of Ponyboy, a Greaser on the wrong side of life who is caught up in territorial battles between the have-it-made rich kids, "The Socs," and his tough, underprivileged family and friends. As these young people try to find themselves and each other, the sadness of sophistication begins to reach them, and change them.

Safety Procedures

The Wizard of Oz

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Wed, 06 Jan 2021 19:15:43 GMT

About the Show

Written by: Jerry Stevenson

Director: Julian Deleon

Appropriate for: All Ages

Runtime: 1 Hour

Featuring all the beloved characters from L. Frank Baum’s timeless classic and many of the cherished songs from the 1939 film with Judy Garland, this production will feature a cast of our most talented 1st-6th graders! Generally recognized as the first truly American fairy tale, The Wizard of Oz holds an iconic place in American culture. That is why, “this particular production,” says CCT Artistic Director, Jerry Stevenson, “stays very true to the original source material. This production is almost 100% traditional with just the occasional tongue-in-cheek nod toward modern humor.”

Showtimes

The Wizard of Oz will premiere virtually Friday, March 19, 2021. Grab tickets to the premiere here!

Safety Procedures

Wizard of Oz Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Wed, 06 Jan 2021 19:05:54 GMT

What You Need to Know

Ages: Grades 1-6

Audition Registrations Accepted Until: January 15th

Registration: Sign up to audition here.

Schedule Your Audition: Choose a time to audition here.

To audition, please register at the registration link above. Then, schedule a time to audition in person at Columbia Children's Theatre on January 16 or 17 from 2-4PM . Please refer to our safety guidelines below to learn how we're ensuring that our in-person auditions meet the highest standard for safety.

Please direct any questions to Sallie Best at sallie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

About the Show

Written by: Jerry Stevenson

Director: Julian Deleon

The Peanut Butter and Jelly players are back for another show this Winter, The Wizard of Oz . Much like our production of Goldie on Trial , this will be a much smaller cast and will follow all of our safety guidelines as outlined below. While technically a "non-musical" the show uses two Dorothies who will each do a version of Over the Rainbow. For the audition, if your child would like to audition for the part of Dorothy please have them learn just the first line of the song, "Somewhere over the rainbow, blue birds fly." to be sung a cappella. Auditioners will also be asked to recite a line or two from the show that we will provide.

Safety Procedures

We will follow a similar format as we did this summer and fall with smaller casts in the production to make it easier to keep space between cast members, backstage and on stage. We will take temperatures at the door and masks are required at all times.

Radium Girls

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 17:42:07 GMT

About the Show

Written by: D.W. Gregory

Director: Paul Lindley

Appropriate for: All Ages

Runtime: 1 Hour

Radium Girls is D.W. Gregory’s gripping drama based on the true story of female laborers who were poisoned and killed by their factory’s radium-based paint. Though Radium Girls ranges from 1918 through the 1940’s, the bulk of the narrative is centered on events in New Jersey in the mid 1920’s. The play highlights Grace, Irene, and Kathryn who paint dials in the U.S. Radium Plant and are instructed to finely point their brushes by molding the bristles with their mouths while painting. The factory’s new owner, Arthur Roeder, is excited by radium’s promising future and believes in the company’s potential for growth. Roder’s mindset is supported by Marie Curie, the internationally famous scientist, who believes radium provides many health benefits and could even cure cancer. Radium Girls fiercely examines the commercialization of science, the pursuit of both health and wealth, the power of the underdog, and the fierce injustice laborers in America have faced, and may even continue to face in the present.

Showtimes

Radium Girls will premiere virtually on February 12th. Buy tickets to the premiere here.

Auditions

Safety Procedures

Radium Girls Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 17:37:41 GMT

What You Need to Know

Ages: Grades 10-12

Audition Registrations Accepted Until: December 4th

Registration: Sign up to audition here.

Monologues: Choose 2 monologues from these options.

To audition, please register at the registration link above. Please submit a video recording performing 2 of the monologues from the options provided by emailing audition@columbiachildrenstheatre.com . Please include your name and grade in the body of the email.

Performances will be shown through a virtual premiere on February 5th . The show will be pre-recorded on January 24th .

Please direct any questions to Sallie Best at sallie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

About the Show

Written by: D.W. Gregory

Director: Paul Lindley

Safety Procedures

Amadeus

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Thu, 03 Sep 2020 20:11:47 GMT

About the Show

YouTheatre (CCTeen)

Director: Paul Lindley

Written By: Peter Shaffer

Running Time: 1 hour

Ages: PG-13

Claiming to have murdered the composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the elderly Antonio Salieri recounts to a priest his dealings with the brilliant composer. Salieri was court composer to Austrian Emperor Joseph II when Mozart and he first met. The Emperor, a major patron of the arts, immediately commissioned Mozart to write an opera in German, rather than the customary Italian. Mozart is childish, arrogant, annoying and brilliant all at once and Salieri is simultaneously in awe and green with envy at his genius. Salieri uses Mozart's difficult relationship with his father and his guilt over being a bad son to drive him slightly mad and into a downward spiral of ill health, leading to his death.

Showtimes

Amadeus will premiere virtually November 20, 2020 at 7PM. Buy tickets to the premiere here.

Safety Procedures

Goldie on Trial: Or 12 Angry Princesses

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Thu, 03 Sep 2020 20:11:46 GMT

About the Show

Nov 13, 2020 | YouTheatre (PB&J)

Director: Jerry Stevenson

Written By: Jerry Stevenson

Running Time: 50 minutes

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

Goldie On Trial: Or 12 Angry Princess is the world premiere of a new play for children written specifically for CCT by Artistic Director, Jerry Stevenson. This non-musical compilation of fairytales takes place in a courtroom that has Goldilocks being tried for the crimes committed against The Three Bears. This hilarious one act play will feature Goldilocks, The Three Bears, a jury comprised of fairytale princesses, and many more fairytale favorites!

Showtimes

Goldie on Trial: Or Twelve Angry Princesses will premiere virtually Friday, November 13, 2020. Grab tickets to the premiere here!

Safety Procedures

Goldie on Trial Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Thu, 03 Sep 2020 20:11:45 GMT

What You Need to Know

Ages: Grades 1-6

Audition Registrations Accepted Until: September 19

Registration: Sign up to audition here.

Schedule Your Audition: Choose a time to audition here.

To audition, please register at the registration link above. Then, schedule a time to audition in person at Columbia Children's Theatre on September 19 . Please refer to our safety guidelines below to learn how we're ensuring that our in-person auditions meet the highest standard for safety.

Please direct any questions to Sallie Best at sallie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

About the Show

Written by: Jerry Stevenson

Director: Jerry Stevenson

Safety Procedures

Amadeus Auditions

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 18:54:34 GMT

What You Need to Know

Ages: Grades 7-12

Audition Registrations Accepted Until: September 10

Registration: Sign up to audition here.

To audition, please register at the registration link above. Then, download the monologue packet for this show and record a short video of yourself performing two . Send your video to audition@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

Please direct any questions to Sallie Best at sallie@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

About the Show

Written by: Peter Shaffer

Director: Paul Lindley

Safety Procedures

Educator's Night

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Mon, 31 Aug 2020 15:31:39 GMT

What is it?

Educator's night is an annual event the invites teachers, administrators and educators of all sorts to Columbia Children's Theatre to learn about how CCT can help incorporate the arts into a school or class curriculum.

What to Expect

Explanation of the many resources CCT offers that can enhance your existing curriculum.
Overview of our virtual field trip options, workshops and residency programs, available shows and pricing options.
Previews of two of our virtual field trips, Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed and Little Women.
Q&A with our artistic and administrative staff.

When & Where is it?

Educator's Night will take place via Zoom Webinar on September 10 , 6PM EST . Register below to reserve your spot and receive details on how to attend.

Register

Educator's Night is a free event . Enter your information below to save your spot and receive details on how to attend.

Mr. Burns, a Post-Electric Play

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 29 May 2020 17:21:31 GMT

About the Show

October 9, 2020 | YouTheatre (CCTeens)

Director: Paul Lindley

Running Time: 2 hours

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

It's the end of everything in contemporary America – a future without power. But what will survive? Mr. Burns asks how the stories we tell make us the people we are, explodes the boundaries between pop and high culture and, when society has crumbled, imagines the future for America's most famous family.

Showtimes

Mr. Burns, a Post-electric Play will premiere Friday, October 9, 2020 . Grab tickets to the premiere here!

Safety Procedures

Auditions

Auditions are currently open for this show! Find more information here.

Alice in Wonderland

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 29 May 2020 17:21:31 GMT

About the Show

September 25, 2020 | YouTheatre (PB&J)

Director: Julian Deleon

Running Time: 1 hour

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

Originally produced in CCT's 2009 season and penned by CCT Artistic Director, Jerry Stevenson, this re-imagining of Alice's adventures down the rabbit hole has all of your favorite characters (plus five different Alices)! Told in the inimitable CCT style, this highly imaginative production will engage your youngsters and delight audiences of all ages. The wacky script features a Caterpillar laden with Kate Spade purses, a King of Hearts with no gavel, live hedgehogs and a even character or two from Twilight!

Showtimes

Alice in Wonderland will premiere Friday, September 25, 2020. Grab tickets to the premiere here!

Safety Procedures

Little Women

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 29 May 2020 17:21:30 GMT

About the Show

September 18, 2020 | YouTheatre (CCTeens)

Director: Cathy Brookshire

Running Time: 2 hours

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

Under the guidance of their beloved mother, the four young March sisters – tempestuous Jo, motherly Meg, shy Beth and spoiled baby Amy – struggle to keep their family going while Father's away in the Civil War. In this beautifully dramatized adaptation of the classic novel, each girl strives to find her true self even as privation, illness and sibling rivalry cast their shadows.

Showtimes

Little Women will premiere Friday, September 18, 2020 . Grab tickets to the premiere here!

Safety Procedures

The Glass Dog

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 29 May 2020 17:21:29 GMT

About the Show

August 6 - 9, 2020 | YouTheatre (PB&J)

Director: Larry Hembree

Running Time: 1 hour

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

The Glass Dog is the World Premiere of a new play for children written specifically for CCT by Irmo, SC native and award-winning New York playwright, Randall David Cook. Based on a L. Frank Baum's (The Wizard of Oz) short story of the same title, this play is a fast-paced and zany romp through a quirky, fantastical, fun and silly world where a glass dog is magically enchanted to life. As with every great fairy tale, there are potions, a wizard, a beautiful young lady, magic spells and, of course, “the most beautiful man in the world.”

Showtimes

The Glass Dog will premiere Friday, October 2, 2020 . Grab tickets to the premiere here!

Safety Procedures

Mr. Burns, a Post-Electric Play Audition

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 29 May 2020 16:28:01 GMT

What You Need to Know

Ages: Grades 10-12 (in the '19-'20 school year)

Audition Registrations Accepted Until: June 12

Registration: Sign up to audition here.

To audition, please register at the registration link above. Then, download the monologue packet for this show and record a short video of yourself performing one. Send your video to audition@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

Please direct any questions to Paul Lindley at paul@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

About the Show

Director: Paul Lindley

It's the end of everything in contemporary America – a future without power. But what will survive? Mr. Burns asks how the stories we tell make us the people we are, explodes the boundaries between pop and high culture and, when society has crumbled, imagines the future for America's most famous family.

Showtimes

Mr. Burns, a Post-Electric Play will premiere Friday, October 9, 2020 . Grab tickets to the premiere here!

Safety Procedures

Little Women Audition

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 29 May 2020 16:23:05 GMT

What You Need to Know

Ages: Grades 7-9 (in the '19-'20 school year)

Audition Registrations Accepted Until: June 12

Registration: Sign up to audition here.

Please direct any questions to Cathy Brookshire at cathy@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

About the Show

Director: Cathy Brookshire

Safety Procedures

Alice in Wonderland Audition

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 29 May 2020 16:20:19 GMT

What You Need to Know

Ages: Grades 1-6 (in the '19-'20 school year)

Audition Registrations Accepted Until: June 12

Registration: Sign up to audition here.

Location: Auditions for Alice in Wonderland will take place at Columbia Children's Theatre in a sanitized, socially-distanced setting. For more details, please refer to our full COVID-19 Guidelines.

Please fill out the registration form above to select a date and time. If you are unable to audition in person , you can submit a video. See the audition form for instructions.

Please plan to arrive before your audition time. You will only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition.

Please direct any questions to Julian Deleon at julian@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

About the Show

Director: Julian Deleon

Safety Procedures

The Glass Dog Audition

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 29 May 2020 16:15:30 GMT

What You Need to Know

Ages: Grades 1-6 (in the '19-'20 school year)

Audition Registrations Accepted Until: June 12

Registration: Sign up to audition here.

Location: Auditions for The Glass Dog will take place at Columbia Children's Theatre in a sanitized, socially-distanced setting. Please fill out the registration form above to select a date and time. If you are unable to audition in person , you can submit a video. See the audition form for instructions.

Please plan to arrive before your audition time. You will only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition.

Please direct any questions to Larry Hembree at larry@columbiachildrenstheatre.com .

About the Show

Director: Larry Hembree

The Glass Dog is the World Premiere of a new play for children written specifically for CCT by Irmo, SC native and award-winning New York playwright, Randall David Cook. Based on a L. Frank Baum's ( The Wizard of Oz ) short story of the same title, this play is a fast-paced and zany romp through a quirky, fantastical, fun and silly world where a glass dog is magically enchanted to life. As with every great fairy tale, there are potions, a wizard, a beautiful young lady, magic spells and, of course, “the most beautiful man in the world.”

Safety Procedures

The Odyssey

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Mon, 11 May 2020 20:12:13 GMT

About the Show

June 12, 2020 | Premiering Online

16 actors will bring to life an adaptation of Homer’s The Odyssey – created just for this new virtual world we find ourselves in. Follow Odysseus’ journey that features sirens, a cyclops, and more with this fun production!

On June 12, watch the premiere of our show on YouTube with a talkback following the performance to discuss with our Brave New World Ensemble what the process was like.

Running time: 1 hour

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

Brave New World Ensemble

The world has changed, but one thing remains the same: We still need theatre to remind us of who we are and what we might become. CCT’s mission during this extraordinary time remains the same: To create experiences that encourage children to change their world through the transformative power of live theatre.

How do we do this in this time of social distancing? CCT is proud to present The Brave New World Ensemble; a theatrical (poss. "performance/design') platform for teens that embraces the challenges of this new life and seeks to explore all the artistic possibilities it offers. This ensemble embraces actors, visual artists, writers, designers, musicians, and dancers. Together we will create new theatre experiences for our members and for our audiences. A new approach to a brave new world.

Showtimes

Friday, June 12

7PM premier on Youtube. Video will be available on our channel afterwards.

The Odyssey Audition

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Wed, 06 May 2020 20:48:24 GMT

What You Need to Know

Ages: 13-18

Auditions Accepted Until: Wednesday, May 13

Price: $25 (all performers that audition will be accepted to perform)

Registration: Sign up to audition here.

CCT's performance of The Odyssey will be online-only. All performers that audition will be accepted to perform.

For this production, performers will create an audio-driven video performance of The Odyssey . Ensemble members will perform the voices of multiple characters, create soundscapes of scenes as well as movement pieces for both one actor and for multiple actors, and assist in editing. The process will be concluded with an Online Premiere via YouTube followed by a virtual talkback with the cast.

About the Show

Director: Cathy Brookshire

Technical Director: Sallie Best

Costumer: Jerry Stevenson

Children of Eden Audition

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Tue, 04 Feb 2020 18:59:23 GMT

What You Need to Know:

Auditions for Children of Eden are open to all actors in grades 1 - 6 .

Auditions will take place on Monday, February 10 at 6:00PM and Tuesday, February 11 at 6:00PM .

Download and complete the Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (pdf file)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)

You will be taught a short Choreography routine
Possible Cold readings from the script. You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition. Rehearsals begin Monday, February 17. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. Performances will be March 27-29, 2020.

Please plan to arrive before the start time listed above to register for auditions. If possible, fill out the audition form and conflict calendar in advance (link above). The audition process should take approximately 2 hours.

About the Show

Director: Julian Deleon

Choreographer: Rachel Brown

Stage Manager: Sallie Best

Location: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (directions)

Join our first through sixth grade actors for an expansive and ambitious musical! Based on the story of Genesis, the age-old conflict of parents and children takes the stage in this epic, heartfelt Stephen Schwartz musical.

From musical theatre greats, Stephen Schwartz (Composer of Wicked) and John Caird, comes a joyous and inspirational musical about parents, children and faith... not to mention centuries of unresolved family business!

Adam, Eve, Noah and the "Father" who created them deal with the headstrong, cataclysmic actions of their respective children. The show ultimately delivers a bittersweet. but inspiring. message: that "the hardest part of love... is letting go."

Want to see the show?

Go ahead and grab tickets! Tickets are available starting March 1, 2020.

The Secret Garden Audition

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Mon, 25 Nov 2019 15:01:58 GMT

What You Need to Know:

Auditions for the Secret Garden are open to all actors in grades 7 – 12.

Auditions will take place on Sunday, December 8 at 6:00PM and Monday, December 9 at 6:00PM .

Download and Complete the Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (pdf file)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
Be familiar with these song selections in advance:

Boys – Lily's Eyes (page 140) mm 20-36 (download PDF here)
Alto – Hold On (page 295) mm 7-25 (download PDF here)
Soprano – Come to My Garden (page 247) mm 5-29 (download PDF here)

You will be taught a short Choreography routine
Possible Cold readings from the script. You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition. Rehearsals begin December 16. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. Performances will be February 7-9, 2020.

About the Show

Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Bethany Stewart

Location: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (directions)

This enchanting classic of children's literature is reimagined in brilliant musical style by composer Lucy Simon and Marsha Norman, the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright of 'Night Mother. Orphaned in India, 11 year-old Mary Lennox returns to Yorkshire to live with her embittered, reclusive uncle Archibald and his invalid son Colin. The estate's many wonders include a magic garden which beckons the children with haunting melodies and the "Dreamers", spirits from Mary's past who guide her through her new life, dramatizing The Secret Garden's compelling tale of forgiveness and renewal.

Want to see the show?

Go ahead and grab tickets! Tickets are available starting January 1, 2020.

Les Mis Cast Resources Page

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Wed, 18 Sep 2019 17:33:04 GMT

Hello Les Misérables cast members and parents! Below, you'll find valuable information to help make the most of our experience together during this show, including staff contact details and information about rehearsals, costumes and performances.

If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to one of our staff members below.

Staff Information

Staff information is TBD.

Magic Treehouse Audition

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Tue, 17 Sep 2019 13:05:55 GMT

What You Need to Know:

Auditions are open to all actors in grades 1 - 6.

Auditions will take place on Sunday, September 22 at 6:00PM and Monday, September 23 at 6:00PM .

Download and Complete the Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (pdf file)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
You will be taught a short Choreography routine
Possible Cold readings from the script. You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons. Nov 8-10, 2019

About the Show

From Music Theatre International

Location: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (directions)

Join our actors in grades 1-6 for a musical adaptation of the first of Mary Pope Osborne's award-winning fantasy adventure books from the Magic Tree House book series, which has sold more than 100 million copies and is available in more than 100 countries around the world. Jack and Annie’s tree house transports them back in time to the age of the dinosaurs, where the siblings courageously learn that things are not always what they seem.

Siblings, Jack and Annie, discover a tree house full of books while exploring one afternoon. Jack looks through a book about dinosaurs and wishes he could see a real one. Suddenly, the wind begins to blow and the tree house starts to spin wildly. When it finally stops, Jack and Annie open their eyes to find they have been transported back to the time of the dinosaurs. Jack and Annie have a harrowing adventure, befriending some dinosaurs along the way as they try to make their way back home.

Want to see the show?

Go ahead and grab tickets! Check out prices below.

Freckleface Strawberry

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 18:12:49 GMT

About the Show

Based on the beloved New York Times best-selling book by celebrated actress, Julianne Moore. Freckleface Strawberry will do anything to get rid of her freckles – from scrubbing them with soap to caking on makeup… and even wearing a ski mask to school! Will her schoolmates realize that it’s her under the mask? Will Freckleface be brave enough to finally face her complexion in the mirror? With the help of her loveable schoolmates, including an amazingly talented ballerina, a cutie jock, a charming ditz and a totally kooky teacher, Freckleface learns that everyone is different – and that’s what makes everyone special.

Running time: 1 hour

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

Showtimes

September 21-29, 2019

Saturdays: 10:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m., & 7:00 p.m.

Sundays: 3:00 p.m.

Children of Eden Jr.

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 18:12:49 GMT

About the Show

Running time: 1 hour

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

Goldilocks & The Three Bears

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 18:12:48 GMT

About the Show

Location: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (directions)

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

Runtime: 1 hour

Award-winning writers George Stiles and Anthony Drewe ( Honk! , Mary Poppins ) inject a bear-sized helping of music and mayhem into this classic fairytale, making it “just right” for the entire family. Goldilocks, on a trip into the forest, ventures into a seemingly uninhabited house. In the process of making herself feel at home, she turns the place into a gigantic mess! Little does she know that the house belongs to a family of three bears… who will not be too pleased.

Showtimes

Saturday, February 29

10:30AM | 2PM | 7PM

Sunday, March 1

3PM

Saturday, March 7

10:30AM | 2PM | 7PM

Sunday, March 8

3PM

Les Misérables: School Edition

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 18:12:46 GMT

About the Show

Les Misérables is the world’s longest running musical — a true modern classic based on Victor Hugo's novel and featuring one of the most memorable scores of all time. The multi-award-winning show is as groundbreaking today as it was when it first premiered in London in 1985.

Finally, during the Paris student uprising of 1832, Javert must confront his ideals after Valjean spares his life and saves that of the student revolutionary who has captured the heart of Valjean's adopted daughter.

Epic, grand and uplifting, Les Misérables School Edition packs an emotional wallop that has thrilled audiences all over the world.

Running Time: ~ 2 hours | Age: 13+

Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 18:12:45 GMT

About the Show

Running time: 50 hour

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

Script and Lyrics By: Mo Williams

Music By: Deborah Wicks La Puma

Directed By: Julian Deleon

Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience is a rock 'n roll parable with a significant message for today's audiences, based on the hit children's book by Mo Willems. Wilbur and all his fellow naked mole rats in the Tunnel have always been, well...naked. Wondering what other possibilities are out there, Wilbur discovers a love for clothing and style. When word of his new passion turns the Tunnel upside down, he proves to everyone that there's no need to be just like everyone else.

A special lesson and rock show all in one, Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed has energetic songs, quirky characters and a story unlike any other.

Attend the Virtual Premiere

Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience will premiere virtually on September 11 , 6:30-7:30PM. Find more details about the premiere here.

Santa Claus: The Musical

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 18:12:44 GMT

About the Show

December 7-15, 2019

After a thousand years of making lists and checking them twice, Santa Claus is ready to retire. Can anyone take his place? Who will manage the North Pole?

Join Columbia Children’s Theatre for this delightful, hilarious musical that features the big man himself, and plenty of his tiny, helpful friends as they work to solve this dilemma.

Running time: 1 hour

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

Showtimes

Saturday, December 7

10:30AM | 2:00PM | 7:00PM

Sunday, December 8

3:00PM

Saturday, December 14

10:30AM | 2:00PM | 7:00PM

Sunday, December 15

3:00PM

The Commedia Robin Hood

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 18:12:43 GMT

About the Show

Written & Directed by Jerry Stevenson

Summer is here, and that means the Spaghetti and Meatball Players are back for more shenanigans! Join Columbine, Rosetta, Pantalone, Punchin, and Arlequino as they present there all new take on the beloved tale. This original adaptation is performed in the traditional style of commedia dell'arte, a largely improvisational style of street theatre originating in 16th century Italy. With lots of physical comedy, audience interaction, jokes, and surprises, this hilarious "fractured fairy tale" will delight children and adults of all ages!

Running time: 1 hour

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

Magic Treehouse: Dinosaurs Before Dark

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 18:12:43 GMT

About the Show

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

Looking for Auditions?

Find out more about auditions for this show here ➝

The Secret Garden

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Fri, 13 Sep 2019 18:12:42 GMT

About the Show

Director: Paul Lindley II

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Stage Manager: Bethany Stewart

Location: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (directions)

Ages: Appropriate for all ages

Showtimes

Friday, February 7

6:30PM

Saturday, February 8

1PM | 6:30PM

Sunday, February 9

3PM

Les Miserables Audition

s.sinclair.taylor@gmail.com (Sean Taylor) — Thu, 05 Sep 2019 13:43:19 GMT

What You Need to Know:

Auditions for Les Miserables are open to all actors in grades 7 – 12.

Auditions will take place on Sunday, August 25 at 3:00PM and

Monday, August 26 at 6:00PM .

Download and Complete the Audition Form and Conflict Calendar (pdf file)
Review the Production Information Sheet (pdf file)
Be familiar with these song selections in advance: Audition Sheet Music
You will be taught a short Choreography routine
Possible Cold readings from the script.You only need to attend one audition session unless you are asked to return for a callback audition. Rehearsals begin September 4th. Rehearsals will generally be held Monday through Friday evenings, Saturday times vary, and Sunday afternoons.Performances will be October 18-20, 2019.

About the Show

From Music Theatre International

Director: Julian Deleon

Music Director: Paul Lindley

Choreographer: Lisa Sendler

Location: Columbia Children’s Theatre at Richland Mall (directions)

Please plan to arrive before the start time listed above to register for auditions. If possible, fill out the audition form and conflict calendar in advance (link below). The audition process should take approximately 2 hours.

Les Misérables is the world’s longest running musical — a true modern classic based on Victor Hugo’s novel and featuring one of the most memorable scores of all time. The multi-award-winning Les Misérables is as groundbreaking today as it was when it first premiered in London in 1985.

In nineteenth century France, Jean Valjean is released from years of unjust imprisonment, but finds nothing in store for him but mistrust and mistreatment. He breaks his parole in hopes of starting a new life, initiating a lifelong struggle for redemption as he is relentlessly pursued by police inspector Javert, who refuses to believe Valjean can change his ways. Finally, during the Paris student uprising of 1832, Javert must confront his ideals after Valjean spares his life and saves that of the student revolutionary who has captured the heart of Valjean’s adopted daughter.

Epic, grand and uplifting, Les Misérables School Edition packs an emotional wallop that has thrilled audiences all over the world. This author-approved edition has been abridged to a running time of just over two hours while beautifully maintaining the integrity of this musical masterpiece.