Columbia Childrens Theatre

Columbia Children's Theatre's YouTheatre program provides students in grades 1-12 with the opportunity to audition for and perform in fully produced plays and musicals, working alongside professional directors, choreographers, music directors, and stage managers. Through an intensive five-week rehearsal process, young actors gain valuable performance experience, develop teamwork and communication skills, and deepen their understanding of the theatrical arts, culminating in four public performances for each production. Each year, YouTheatre stages four productions: two for the Peanut Butter and Jelly Players, featuring students in grades 1-7; one for CCTeens, featuring students in grades 8-12; and one large-scale summer musical that brings all age groups together. In the most recent season, the Peanut Butter and Jelly Players presented Beauty and the Beast and Finding Nemo, the CCTeens performed Firebringer, and the combined summer production was Seussical the Musical. Approximately 200 students from six counties participate annually, and their productions are enjoyed by about 1,800 audience members.

Columbia Children's Theatre's Education initiative offers a wide range of training opportunities in acting, singing, dance, improvisation, directing, designing, and creative play for students from age three through 12th grade, with all classes taught by professional artists and experienced theatre educators from local school districts. In the most recent season, this program provided 22 after-school classes and 31 week-long summer camps, serving a total of 1,041 students. Additionally, year-long in-school residencies at two local elementary schools introduced 285 students to the fundamentals of theatre, culminating in performances for friends and family. As part of the Education initiative, Columbia Children's Theatre also offers highly sought-after, hands-on internships to middle and high school students, providing them with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to work side-by-side with industry professionals and gain practical experience in technical theatre. In the past season, 20 student interns honed their skills as scenic artists, builders, costumers, lighting designers, and assistant stage managers, preparing them for future success in the arts and beyond.