Kids Find a Home in Theater—Julie Baumann & Griffin Valiant

When Theater is Controversial … or Not (Fun Home)

“Fun Home,” the graphic novel that became a Tony-winning Broadway musical, was controversial upon its release 20 years ago and banned from some libraries after allegations that it was too explicit and out of alignment with religious values. But TJ Rosa and Liam Kelley, director and assistant director of this gorgeous musical at Civic Theatre, say that lots of people in Generation Z have no problem at all with the author’s coming-out story. Was the controversy merely generational?

Birthday Candles is Every Family’s Story

Theater begins with living room performances for family, continues in high school/college, and peaks on Broadway. Where does community theater fit? Kristine Holtvedt, who has acted and directed at every level, knows why Civic Theater is important. And Caty Natt hopes we all recognize that “Birthday Candles” is about every family—including yours.

Welcome to the Jungle (Book)

Part 2 from the Civic Youth Theatre production of Disney’s Jungle Book Kids. You can almost see in real time our cast, 6 to 13 years old, develop the confidence to express themselves, despite some of them usually being quiet or shy. They’re figuring out for themselves why being in a play can be so much more than just something different to do for a couple of months. And, for working adults, why take on a few more hours of responsibility during evenings and weekends to help with theater for children? What’s in it for you?

Kids Find a Home in Theater—Julie Baumann & Griffin Valiant

Parents, listen up. Do any of your kids struggle to find belonging on a sports team or even in the lunchroom? Maybe they need to try community theater … because, as Julie Baumann says, it’s a magical place where kids (and adults, too) can build confidence, self-esteem, empathy, pride, and humility. Theater teaches hard work, dedication, and flexibility … and it’s where all of us can experience success, find belonging, and discover who we are at the core. Also in this episode: Griffin Valiant takes his first turn as stage manager for Disney’s Jungle Book Kids.

A Story That People Need to Hear—The Revolutionists

Part 2 of a conversation with the cast & director of “The Revolutionists” is a case study in how theater can bring us together and make us think about issues we face living our daily lives in today’s world, when having a difference of opinion with family and close friends can feel like a crime. “The Revolutionists,” though, reminds us that what’s most important is building community and finding empathy—and that’s exactly what this impactful play did for our cast.