SPONSORED BY

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte

SHOWGUIDE

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte is supported, in part, with funding from the Arts & Science Council and the N.C. Arts Council, a division of theDepartment of Natural and Cultural Resources.

Jan. 31 - Feb. 16, 2020| McColl Family Theatre

AKEELAH ANDTHE BEE

Based on the screenplay by Doug Atchison I Adapted for the stage by Cheryl L. West

Robinson Bradshaw, Kristin Black & Todd Day, Ashley & Matthew Joseph,Florence & Edward Kim, and Anita & Bruce LaRowe

Each and every day, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte is focused on fulfilling our mission by creating exceptional theatre experiences, inspiring generations to explore the wonder of their world. This work is grounded in innovation, ensuring we approach all aspects of our work with curiosity, imagination and wonder.

The new year has much in store. Peter Pan will help us soar into our 72nd season. The Kindness Project (ctcharlotte.org/kindness) will remain center stage with the reprise of A Sick Day for Amos McGee and the world premiere of The Invisible Boy in November. The fourth installment, Tropical Secrets: Holocaust Refugees in Cuba, is currently in development.

Education programs offer a wide array of programming to help young people discover their talents, build self-confidence, develop leadership and

problem-solving skills and inspire their thinking about the world.

We continually seek opportunities to more fully engage all parts of our community - forging new partnerships and listening intently to the voices of all young people as we plan for the future.

Thank you for joining us – we hope to see you often this season!

Adam Burke, Artistic DirectorLinda Reynolds, Managing Director

Welcome

Linda Reynolds, Managing Director

Adam Burke, Artistic Director

From the Board of Directors

On behalf of the board of Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, welcome to our 72nd season.

More than 250,000 exceptional theatre experiences are created each year, serving students and families from across our region. Whether it is enjoying a professional production in our theatres…participating in an education class or camp at ImaginOn…or being part of a program in a community location, we are dedicated to being an organization that helps people connect, collaborate and grow together.

Our board is inspired to work with a team that continually strives to provide our community as well as the national field for theatre for young audiences with new and innovative theatre and education programs. Each year, more than 60,000 schoolstudents attend performances at greatly-reduced cost; families receiving public benefit

may become subscribers and pay only $2 for their tickets; education program scholarships ensure students have an opportunity to participate; Theatre 360 provides access to extended programming; and sensory-friendlyperformances are available for families with children or adults on the autism spectrum or other sensory sensitivities.

We’re grateful that you are part of this extraordinary organization. Special thanks to our donors, who take the important step of making a philanthropic investment in the amazing work of Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. You help ensure we remain positioned to provide you with the excellent programs you have come to expect.

See you at the Theatre!

Tim RogersChair, Board of Directors

MecklenburgArea Catholic

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Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 32 Children’s Theatre of Charlotte

presents

Videotaping, photography and other video or audio recording of this production is prohibited.

Akeelah and the BeeBased on the screenplay by Doug Atchison

Adapted for the stage by Cheryl L. West Produced by special arrangement with Plays for Young Audiences

SPONSORED BY

Robinson Bradshaw, Kristin Black & Todd Day, Ashley & Matthew Joseph,Florence & Edward Kim, and Anita & Bruce LaRowe

* Represented by United Scenic Artists Local USA 829 of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stagehands

Jan. 31 to Feb. 16, 2020McColl Family Theatre

Running time approximately two hours. There will be one 15-minute intermission.

Celebrating All of Life’s StagesWherever your charitable interest lies, you have the power to create a better

community. From establishing your first charitable fund to planning your estate –

and every generous act in between – FFTC helps you make a lasting impact.

www.fftc.org | 704.998.6412 | philanthropy@fftc.org

Inspiring the Art of Philanthropy

4 Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 5

Director Corey MitchellStage Manager Brenna SkinnonScenic Designer Anita Tripathi*

Costume Designer Danielle Preston*Lighting Designer Gordon W. Olson*

Sound Designer Tyler Knowles

When I grow up I want to be...

Call or Come Visit:(704) 943-4530 charlottecountryday.org/Admissions

Bring this with you on your visit. We would love to see your masterpiece.

Ready to explore. Ready to create. Ready for whatever life has in store for me. Country Day Ready.

Ready. For. Anything.

APRIL 17 19 | BOOTH PLAYHOUSEAUTHENTIC VS ARTIFICIAL

HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSON’S TIMELESS FAIRYTALE

6 Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 7

GROUP SALES AVAILABLE

Visit ctcharlotte.org for more information or callthe Box Office at 704-973-2828 (M - F, 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.)

We offer discounts on tickets for groups of 10 or more

ENJOY THESE BENEFITS:Easy payment plans

Accompanying ImaginOn activities (when available)Convenient rescheduling if needed

Personalized planning assistance

Peter Pan, photo by John Merrick

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 98 Children's Theatre of Charlotte

Peter Pan, photo by John Merrick

We're celebrating these birthdays!Donors can wish their child a happy birthday in our playbills. Find out how you can participate by visiting

ctcharlotte.org and clicking on Get Involved > Make a donation or by calling our development office at 704-973-2804.

Special shout outs to family and friendsDonors can share a message in our playbills. Find out how you can participate by visiting ctcharlotte.org and clicking

on Giving> Giving Levels and Benefits or by calling our development office at 704-973-2804.

Evan & Zoe, Theatre will spark your imagination and fill you with wonder. Enjoy every minute! Love, Mom & Dad

Carrie-Anne and Noelle, You are AMAZING. You are BRAVE. You are STRONG! Much love from, Mom and Dad XOXO

Ella, Charlotte and John...May you always be lovers of the arts and share your love with others. We LOVE you! Mommy and Daddy

Brantley and Brody - you light up our lives! Mom & Dad

Danny & Wilson, We love you and are so excited to share the new CTC Season with you. Love, Mom & Dad

Dream big, Max!

Celebrating the love of theater together!The Stout Family

A big thank you to CTC for all you do for our community! The Wray Family

Caroline and Zachary - you are our stars. Keep shining brightly. Love, Mommy and Daddy

Davis, Ellie & Nicolas:To my wonderful grandchildren! Nana loves you!

Enjoy the excitement of theatre and grow in your love for learning through the power of the arts.Charles & Brenda LaBorde

Harper, Mary Elliott & William: "Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind." -Dr. Seuss

Kendall and Tommy,Believe in yourselves and do great things!Much love, Mom and Dad

Dear Buggy, You shine so bright, on stage and off. We love you to the moon and back! xo, mama doll & dada

Sakari, You are smart, happy, beautiful and loved. Never forget it.

We love you Myra & Ellie. Love Mom & Dad.

Oscar and Charlie, We hope you will cherishthese theater experiences and develop alifelong love of the arts. We love you!

Happy Birthday to our Superstar! We loveyou!Mom & Dad

JanuaryCoby MartinPenelope LongHayden KupermanFiona StoutGarrett MurchisonZachary ShawAubrey CountrymanGus GlassnerBrandon WilliamsLily SeamanLilly MurchisonBrynn BonackHarry DudaSeth BurkeElyse GlassnerOlivia NashCody SmithAvery JonesPiper Jones

FebruaryWilson GreenleeLeo ShreveAndrew SmithCharlie DeLuciaGabriel QasimAdam MurdockWilliam ManisAndrew WallerGavin TerrellCailin WhitlockKeenya WesternBryce WalgerTeddy KellingJohn StokesSully RhymerCamille SmithCharlie PriceKnox HutchesonJames BattenLibby GignacMiller KellingClark Malone

10 Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 11

Cast and creative teamKiara Casseus (Akeelah Anderson) is excited to be making her debut at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte as Akeelah in Akeelah and the Bee! A sophomore at Northwest School of the Arts, Kiara also loves to hand-letter, paint, sketch, and journal. Kiara would like to thank her Mom and Dad for following her no matter what, her sister for always being by her side, her whole family for being supportive & the cast & crew of Children's Theatre of Charlotte!!

Lakeetha Blakeney (Gail Anderson) is so excited to return to Children's Theatre of Charlotte. She was previously a member of the resident touring company. In addition to being an actor, Lakeetha is a director, playwright, and Teaching Artist. She is the Artistic Director of Redeeming History Theatricals in which she writes and produces original work. She has worked with various theatre companies, locally and nationally. She recently directed 101 Dalmatians at Matthews Playhouse in Matthews, North Carolina and performed with The Repertory Theatre of St Louis and the St Louis Black Repertory

Theatre. Her play Sweet Jenn: Narrative of a Female Slave won the 2018 Best Original Script Award at the Atlanta Black Theatre Festival. Lakeetha is so grateful for the opportunity to grace the Children's Theatre of Charlotte stage once more.

Kevin Aoussou (Reggie Anderson) is happy to be joining Children's Theatre of Charlotte for the first time. He is a graduate from Winthrop University and also an alumnus of the National Theatre Institutes: Moscow Art Theatre Semester. Past credits include Game of Love & Chance, Three Musketeers, Moby Dick, and Christmas Carol (Hedgerow Theatre), Sense & Sensibility, Twelfth Night, and Richard III (Theatre at Monmouth), Sutter in Bootycandy (Actor’s Theatre of Charlotte), and Dorian Gray in The Portrait of Dorian Gray (Shakespeare Carolina). RIH J.C.

Tony King (Dr. Josh Larrabee) a Charlotte, NC native, is excited to appear in Akeelah and the Bee. Tony began his theatre journey at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU), where his credits include Broke-ology, Dreamgirls, and Flying West. When Tony is not on stage he enjoys working as a commercial/film actor and creating jarring new stories to tell with friends. Tony is an upcoming Acting MFA ‘23 at the University of Connecticut (UCONN) in Storrs, CT. In contrast to his upcoming role, Tony hopes to one-day grace a feature film (or series) as the first black Joker from The DC universe.

Dr. Corlis Hayes (Ruth) is thrilled to return to Children’s Theater of Charlotte in Alkeelah and the Bee. Her favorite acting credits in the Charlotte theater community include: Miss Carrie Watts in A Trip to Bountiful (Central Piedmont Community College); Saint Monica in The Last Days of Judas Iscariot (Carolina Actors Studio Theatre); Amanda in The Glass Menagerie (Theater Charlotte); Nurse in Romeo and Juliet (Charlotte Shakespeare Festival); Witch # 1 in Macbeth (Shakespeare Carolina) Madame Pernelle in Tartuffe (Charlotte Shakespeare Festival) and Old Nun in Sister Act, The Musical (Central Piedmont Community

College Summer Theatre). Finally, her most challenging experience as an actor was her portrayal of Sadie Delany in Having Our Say: The

About the showCastAkeelah Anderson................................................Kiara CasseusGail Anderson...............................................Lakeetha BlakeneyReggie Anderson.................................................Kevin AoussouDr. Josh Larrabee..........................................................Tony KingRuth......................................................................Dr. Corlis HayesJT......................................................................Cameron DraytonPrincipal/Dylan's Dad....................................Charles Ning ZhaoWillie..............................................................Willie J. Stratford, Jr.Georgia...........................................................................Isa LongDylan................................................................................Eric GuoJavier......................................................................Ernesto TornesEnsemble...........................Carson Whitlock, Hannah Campos,

Nadia Jefferson, Jillian Zulueta

Creative TeamDirector.................................................................Corey MitchellStage Manager.................................................Brenna SkinnonScenic Designer..................................................Anita TripathiCostume Designer...........................................Danielle PrestonLighting Designer............................................Gordon W. OlsonSound Designer.....................................................Tyler Knowles

For This ProductionRun Crew..........................................................Dylan RutemillerMixer/Sound Board Operator.........................Brandy BrogdenElectricians..................Josh Lucero, Mike Swager, Marc Suits,

Brandy Brogden, Jordan GaronLight Board Operator................................................Marc SuitsFirst Hand................................................................Mary HuntingWardrobe Supervisor............................................Allison CollinsWardrobe Crew...................................................Beth AderholdWardrobe Swing..................................................Alyssa WhitingWig Supervisor.....................................................Chelsea RaitorStudent Supervisor...................................................Allan Safdie

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Special Thanks

Julie Higginbotham of Precious Developments. Julie has worked as our consultant in the creation and preparation for our sensory-friendly performances. We're grateful for this continuing and valued partnership.

First 100 Years of Delaney Sisters directed by Corey Mitchell, produced by Theatre Charlotte. Corlis would like to thank Corey Mitchell and Adam Burke for this amazing opportunity to perform at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. Finally, Corlis would like to send a special thanks to her deans, division head, and department chairs at Central Piedmont Community College for making this experience possible.

Cameron Drayton (JT) is thrilled and grateful to make his Children’s Theatre of Charlotte debut. He is a graduate of Winthrop University with a B.A. in Theatre. His most recent credits include Gypsy and Showboat with Central Piedmont Community College, and he has performed with Broadway Dreams. Cameron would like to thank his family and friends for being his big-gest supporters in life. He is especially grateful to this entire company and Corey for giving him another opportunity to do what he loves.

Charles Ning Zhao (Principal/Dylan's Dad) is thrilled to join Children's Theatre of Charlotte in this role. Charles has appeared in numerous tele-vision commercials and movies. He has been a member in the viola section of the Charlotte Symphony since 1996 after he won their national audition. He has a Master of Music degree from the Cleveland Institute of Music and a Bache-lor of Music from Kent State University. He is very grateful for all the support from both the Chil-dren's Theatre of Charlotte and the Charlotte Symphony to make his theater debut possible.

Willie J. Stratford, Jr. (Willie) is a native Char-lottean who has been involved in area theatre since the early 70's. Some of his most mem-orable roles include Walter Lee in A Raisin in the Sun at Theatre Charlotte. He also played Crooks in Of Mice and Men at Children's The-atre of Charlotte. Most recently, he played Bynum in August Wilson’s Joe Turner's Come and Gone and the role of Slow Drag in Ma Rainey's Black Bottom at Central Piedmont Community College. He is a veteran of televi-sion commercials and movies and spent ten years on the road as a professional comedian.

Isa Long (Georgia) is excited to be back on the Children’s Theatre stage after dancing as a part of the Pounce in the season opener, Peter Pan. An eighth grader at Charlotte Christian School, Isa is no stranger to Children’s Theatre having also been seen in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: the Musical as Ollie Herdman (2016), Gladys Herdman (2017), Sunday School Kid (2018), and making her CTC debut as a young ape at age seven in Tarzan the Musical. In addition to her work on the Mainstage, Isa is a part of CTC’s School of Theatre Training Conservatory

program in the Jr. Musical Theatre Company, and loves her dance classes at Open Door Studios. When not on stage she’s typically singing non-stop, binge-watching her favorite show Violetta, or in the rehearsal room or dance studio. Isa would like to thank her director, teaching artists and Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for creating such a magical place to work and train.

Eric Guo (Dylan) is excited to make his debut at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte in Akeelah and the Bee. He recently finished up a season at the Carolina Renaissance Fair, and Providence Day School’s Midnight Dreary, which was performed at NCTC’s One Act Play Festival. He is a freshman at Providence Day School and is enrolled in Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s School of Theatre Training (SOTT) program. He is an avid fan of dance and has danced hip-hop for seven years. He would like to thank his family, especially

Director's noteTwo themes emerge from Akeelah and the Bee that attention must be given to. The first is that there are teachers everywhere. As an educator, I can certainly attest to this. There are people everywhere from whom one can learn. To acknowledge their experience and expertise only takes a willingness to open yourself up and listen to what they have to say. The second theme to consider is that the potential for excellence is an internal trait. Excellence

is not dependent upon how much money one is born with or how much “privilege” they have been granted. In one of her earliest interactions with Dr. Larabee, Akeelah starts to read a quote from Marianne Williamson’s book, A Return to Love; Reflections on “A Course in Miracles.” She only reads the first sentence. The full quote, however, deserves reflection. It states;

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

Miss Ruth regularly sings, “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine!” When you allow your inner light-- your potential—to manifest itself you may be surprised by how much you can achieve and influence all of those around you.

-Corey Mitchell, Director

For a list of full-time production staff who contributed to this production, please see page 15.

A digital version of this program is available online at:ctcharlotte.org.

12 Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 13

StaffLeadershipArtistic Director ........................................................Adam BurkeManaging Director ............................................Linda Reynolds

AdministrationFinance Director .................................................Tracy ChandlerStaff Accountant ......................................................Nancy DeelHuman Resources Manager.....................Carolyn Lugo-AllredImaginOn Partnership Coordinator ............Maryann O’KeeffeImaginOn Administrative Support ................Casey Kaufmann Community Initiatives Leader.......................Arlethia Hailstock

ProductionDirector of Production..........................................Steven LevineAssistant Production Manager................Chasmin HallyburtonCostume Shop Manager ..........................................Bina BiekerDesign Assistant and Crafts Specialist..........Magda GuichardCutter/Draper......................................................Colette AdattoProperties Manager................................................Cassie WardTechnical Director ............................................Andrew GibbonMaster Carpenter ...................................................John SlechtaScenic Artist ...................................................................Tim ParatiHouse Carpenter/Deck Chief ...................Christopher Hanson Resident Sound Designer/A-V Supervisor...........Tyler KnowlesMaster Electrician..............................................Robyn WarfieldSwing Technician..................................................Jordan Garon

EducationDirector of Education..........................................Michelle LongEarly Childhood & SOTT Manager................Adam MontagueCamps & Community Programs Manager............Micah HeinAdministrative Assistant...................Stephanie Hurtado-HoyosResident Teaching Artists................Mavis Scully, Karen Steele

AdvancementAssociate Director of Advancement.................Cherise ClarkGrants Manager.............................................Scott Tynes-MillerDevelopment Coordinator...................................Olivia Horton

Marketing and CommunicationsDirector of Marketing and Communications.......Cindy TaylorAssociate Director of Marketing..............................Rob OdumBox Office Sales Manager...................................Jayke WatsonPR and Social Media Manager............................Sarah KasperSales and Marketing Analyst....................................Nick TaylorSchool Performance Coordinator........................Dallas MorrisTouring Performance Coordinator.....................Margot ParrottIT Coordinator........................................Claire Whitworth-HelmAudience Service Coordinator ..........................Louise LawsonCustomer Sales Associate................................Kerstin VanHussHouse Managers..........................Titus Quinn, Kerstin VanHuss,

Megan Lank, Julie Murray, Susan Scherer, Maddie Willard, Cameron Drayton, KaShara Davis, Greg Franklin

in the potential of his students. He joined the faculty of Northwest in 2001 where he now teaches Theatre, Musical Theatre, Middle School Drama, and Directing for the Stage. During his tenure there have been way too many musicals, plays, music revues, and cab-aret shows to list, but some of the productions that really stand-out include—Ragtime, Hair, Pippin, Godspell, Shrek, All Shook Up, and The Color Purple (that production was the basis of the 2017 award-winning documentary, Purple Dreams, produced by Grey-Hawk Films). In addition to his work at NWSA, Corey has directed plays and musicals for a number of area theatre companies, in-cluding Theatre Charlotte, Central Piedmont Community College, Hickory Community Theatre, and Davidson Community Players. In 2015, Corey was the first recipient of the Tony Award for Excellence in Theatre Education. In addition to the Tony Award, Corey has re-ceived recognition from several other organizations, including the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, the Educational Theatre Association, North Carolina Theatre Conference, the Arts Empowerment Project, the Charlotte Post Foundation, and the National Black Theatre Festival. Notably, Corey was a top fifty finalist for the one million dollar Global Teacher Prize in 2017. Since 2017, Mitchell has been a consultant for the National Center for Educational Statistics (a non-partisan division of the U.S Department of Education), and he has presented keynote addresses, workshops, talkbacks, and master classes across the country and internationally.

Brenna Skinnon (Stage Manager) is a Charlotte native who grew up watching Children’s Theatre of Charlotte productions. She holds a BFA from University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Other Children’s Theatre of Charlotte of credits include Stage Managing The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical and Pete the Cat, ASM/Student Supervisor for Roald Dahl’s Matil-da the Musical. Some of her favorite credits include stage man-agement intern for Cirque du Solei’s Beatles LOVE and Making Wishes Grow an annual variety show for a Make a Wish she does every year. Special thanks goes out to her family and friends.

Anita Tripathi (Scenic Designer) is the Assistant Professor of Design and Technology at Davidson College. Her professional design credits include Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey (LORT B), Greenbrier Valley Theatre and The Virginia Stage Company (LORT D, resident scene designer). She has also worked regionally as both a properties master and scenic charge and has assisted Tony Award-winning designer David Gallo on a number of productions. In 2013, the World Stage Design Exhibition featured her work as a finalist, and she received a United States Institute for Theatre Technology Fellowship to support her research in India. Anita earned a Master of Fine Arts in scene design from the University of South Carolina, and is a member of United Scenic Artists Local 829. View more of her design work at anitajtripathi.com.

Danielle Preston (Costume Designer) is a freelance costume designer. Recent theater credits include designs for the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts, Lincoln Center, Florida Repertory Theatre, Studio Theatre, Theater J, Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma, Triad Stage, Mosaic Theater Company of DC, 1st Stage, Theater Alliance, Washington National Symphony & Solas Nua. Danielle has worked as an Assistant Costume Designer in NYC & DC at Playwrights Horizons, Kennedy Center, Arena Stage, Strathmore Center, Triad Stage, & Williamstown Theatre Festival. Professional fellowships include Kenan Costume Fellow for the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts and A.J. Fletcher Opera Institute Fellowship in Costume Design. Preston holds an MFA in Costume Design from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. Danielle is a proud member of United Scenic Artists Local 829.

Gordon W. Olson (Lighting Designer) is happy to return to Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for this production of Akeelah and The Bee. Gordon’s local credits include: Madagascar-A Musical Adventure, Batboy The Musical!, School House Rock Live! (Children’s Theatre of Charlotte); Spamalot, Annie, Chicago (Davidson Community Players); Peter and the Starcatcher, Spring Awakening, Saturday Night Fever, Addams Family, Jesus Christ Superstar, Footloose (Theatre Charlotte); Pippin, Everybody, Twelfth Night, Hamlet, Spring Awakening, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (UNC-Charlotte). Regional credits include work for: James Madison University, Actor’s Theatre of Louisville, Michigan Opera Theatre, Florida Grand Opera, Houston Grand Opera, San Antonio Opera. Broadway credits include: Jerusalem-Assistant Lighting Designer (Tony Nominated), Good People-Associate Lighting Designer. Gordon received his MFA from The University of Texas at Austin.

his mother, for supporting him through this journey, and the cast and crew for making this a truly enjoyable experience.

Ernesto Tornes (Javier) is filled with excitement to be a part of Children’s Theatre. He has been seen on the North Mecklenburg stage for three years, but is now attending Mountain Island Charter School. He is a senior at Mountain Island Charter and he also loves baseball, soccer and music. Big appreciation to Ms. Nicia, the class, and my parents for giving all the motivation I needed. I couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity.

Carson Whitlock (Ensemble) is thrilled to make her Mainstage debut as an ensemble member in Akeelah and the Bee, but she is no strang-er to the Children’s Theatre stage. Carson is a member of the School of Theatre Training Act-ing Conservatory and has appeared in numer-ous OnStage shows including Red, Red Shoes (Village Woman/Aunt) and Much Ado About Nothing (Ursula) and Summer Teen Workshops including Romeo and Juliet (Romeo) and Twelfth Night (Viola). She was also the 2019 recipient of the “Marcus Sherman Memorial Scholarship” given each year to one OnStage

performer. A Freshman at Myers Park High School, Carson would like to thank her family and friends for their endless love and support.

Hannah Campos (Ensemble) is o-v-e-r-j-o-y-e-d to be back on Children’s Theatre of Char-lotte’s Mainstage! Audiences might have seen her previously this season as Jane in Peter Pan. Hannah is a 9th grader at Williams Montessori and a Conservatory student with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. She enjoys participat-ing in the Theatre’s Onstage program where she most recently played Calypso in The Od-yssey. Hannah would like to thank the entire team of people that made this possible, es-pecially her family and the show’s creative team. She hopes that you will be inspired by

this show and maybe pick up a few spelling tips along the way.

Nadia Jefferson (Ensemble) is excited for her third appearance in a Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Mainstage production. She is a 9th grader at Hickory Ridge High School and has studied with Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s School of Theatre Training for 7 years. She has participated in five Children's Theatre of Char-lotte OnStage productions and three summer teen shows, along with three Theatre Charlotte Jr. productions. Nadia would like to thank her acting teachers and directors for another year on this wonderful stage and also her friends and family for their tireless support and love.

Jillian Zulueta (Ensemble) is excited to be mak-ing her debut at Children’s Theatre as Izzy in Akeelah and the Bee. She has been seen on stage in the Matthews area at Matthews Play-house in recent favorites such as The Lion King, Jr., A Miracle on 34th Street, A Jungle Book, The Musical and at CPCC Theatre in Mada-gascar, Jr., A Musical Adventure. A fifth grad-er at Socrates Academy, Jillian enjoys singing, dancing, skiing, making videos, speaking flu-ent Greek, participating in the Odyssey of the Mind competition team and spending time with her brothers and pet, Vanilla. Jillian would

like to thank her parents and family for being so supportive and to the whole cast and crew for making this an amazing experience!

Corey Mitchell (Director) Since 1995, Mitchell has been a fervent and passionate classroom teacher who believes whole-heartedly

Tyler Knowles (Sound Designer) is thrilled to be returning to Children's Theatre of Charlotte for his second season and working on Akeelah and the Bee! Tyler received his BFA and MFA in Sound Design and Technology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Tyler has recently worked on The Invisible Boy, Accidental Friends, Pete the Cat, Last Stop on Market Street, and The Lion and the Little Red Bird here at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. He has also worked at Hope Summer Repertory Theatre on shows such as Schoolhouse Rock Live, Go Dog. Go!, and Cat in the Hat. He is also an early career member of the Theatrical Sound Designers and Composers Association.

Board of DirectorsChair ............................................................................Tim RogersChair Elect .......................................... Ashley Gigandet JosephSecretary ...............................................................Angela SchollTreasurer............................................................Ryan HutchesonPast Chairs.................................Florence Kim & Brian Murdock

Sallie BeasonKristin Black

Mary Alice BoydJulio ColmenaresJonathan CrottyRyan HutchesonWilliam Jefferson

Ashley Gigandet JosephSarah KaminskiMitchell KellingFlorence Kim

Catherine MaloneBrian MurdockMaddie Myers

Mallory NavinKerbie Neal

Stacia NeugentTim Rogers

Kristen SarioAngela SchollBrittany SmithSherese SmithChris Socha

Bradley VineyardNichelle Weintraub

Judith WhelanThomas Whitlock

Advisory BoardRobin Branstrom, Tom Eiselt, Jami Farris,

Peter Flur, Gina Lawrence

Robin Branstrom, Carla DuPuyCynthia Lank, Linda Lockman-Brooks

ENCORE! PresidentTammy Jones

Members Emeritus

14 Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 15

RECOMMENDED READING

If you enjoy the show, check out these books at your local Charlotte Mecklenburg library branch.

Brown Girl Dreamingby Jacqueline Woodson

The Fingertips of Duncan Dorfman by Meg Wolitzer

Patina by Jason Reynolds

The Mighty Miss Malone by Christopher Paul Curtis

Accessibility and inclusionChildren’s Theatre of Charlotte is committed to making our facilities, programs and services accessible and welcoming for individuals of all abilities. If you have any questions about accommodations for attending our performances, participating in our classes or camps, or volunteering with us, please contact ourBox Office at 704-973-2828.

CAN YOU ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS AFTER WATCHING THE SHOW?

1. Akeelah and the Bee was a movie before it was made into a play. What is the difference between watching a movie and seeing a live performance on stage?

2. Akeelah has to deal with some difficult things in her life that make it tough for her to succeed. What are some of the difficulties that Akeelah encounters in the story? How does she deal with these troubles?

3. Akeelah’s community plays a large part in her story. How does Akeelah’s community help her as she is preparing for the spelling bee? Have you seen a community come together to help someone in need? When and where?

ASL Sign-Interpreted Performances

Children's Theatre of Charlotte offers a sign language- interpreted performance for each of our Mainstage productions. These shows are interpreted by a professional ASL interpreter who has read the script and had early access to the show to ensure his or her interpretation is accurate.

Sensory-Friendly Performances

Through Theatre 360, Children's Theatre of Charlotte offers a sensory-friendly performance for each of its Mainstage productions. We adjust these shows for families and friends with children or adults on the autism spectrum or with other sensory sensitivities.

● We train staff to meet the needs of those attending.● Before attending the performances, families can walk through virtual tours online and get to know ImaginOn’s public space, including the interior of the McColl Family Theatre and the Wells Fargo Playhouse. ● At the performance, we soften theatre lighting and dim the house lights.● Guests will have extra room in the theatre to move around as needed during the performance. ● Quiet spaces, fidgets and headphones will also be available.

Learn more and buy tickets at ctcharlotte.org. Click on Shows & Tickets and look for Accessibility & Inclusion.

Sensory-Friendly Performances

Akeelah and the BeeSunday, February 16 @ 7 p.m.

GRIMMZ Fairy TalesSunday, March 8 @ 4 p.m.

Dragons Love TacosSunday, April 26 @ 4 p.m.

Akeelah and the BeeSaturday, February 8 @ 4 p.m.

GRIMMZ Fairy TalesSaturday, March 14 @ 3 p.m.

Dragons Love TacosSaturday, April 18 @ 3 p.m.

Activities for kids!Explore the show with these fun activities and enrichment opportunities designed for kids! Although, grown-ups tend to enjoy them as well.

16 Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 17

Theatre 360 provides a way to interact with Children's Theatre of Charlotte by extending the theatre experience for children and families and providing access to all. Best of all, many programs are free.

One of our most popular events, Education Nights, invites families to join the teaching artists and staff

for a night of backstage tours, cast meet-and-greets, workshops and a great show. Families enrolled in our Education programs receive special discounts to these performances. Buy your tickets and enjoy free programs offered

before and after the show.

For more information, visit:ctcharlotte.org and click on Classes & Camps > Theatre 360.

Award-winning education programs

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte offers a wide variety of classes and camps for your family. Through our education programs, your child will build confidence, develop speaking, leadership and problem-solving skills, appreciate collaborating as a team member and value the feeling of commitment and accomplishment.

Creative Drama (Ages 2 to 5th grade)

Students explore their imaginations, build confidence and develop important social skills while investigating theatre concepts and activities in five- and 10-week classes. Explore new stories and concepts each session.

School of Theatre Training (3rd to 12th grade)

School of Theatre Training (SOTT) is a comprehensive 20-week program for studying the skills and techniques of acting and musical theatre. Class offerings vary at every age level, guaranteeing an entry point for students in the class progression. We structure our curriculum around the Stanislavski System, a method of performing truthfully onstage through a created set of imaginary circumstances. Telling an authentic story is part of our mission, and our Teaching Artists provide the tools to tell that story and meet the students where they are in their development.

Summer Camps (Ages 3 to 18)

From June to August, we offer one- and two-week camps and teen studios. Professional teaching artists lead each camp and provide age-based experiences to educate and inspire all children from ages 3 to 18.

Full and partial scholarships are available to qualifying students for programs including Creative Drama, School of Theatre Training Classes and Summer Camps. Scholarship space is limited.

Learn more by visiting ctcharlotte.org and clicking on Classes & Camps > Scholarships & Payment Plans.

Classes, camps and more!We offer a wide range of classes and camps organized around creative drama, acting, musical theatre and more in our facility at ImaginOn and at satellite locations (for Summer Camp).

One-Day Mini-CampsFull-day theatre experiences offer families a “stay-cation” option during holiday breaks and Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools teacher workdays. Reserve your child's spot today at ctcharlotte.org.

February 17 - Fairytales with a Twist

March 27 - Rhyme Time

April 9 - April Showers

April 10 - Unicorn Sparkle!

April 13 - Platform 9 3/4

April 14 - The Jungle Book

April 15 - Dragons Love Tacos

April 16 - Wide-eyed in Wonderland

April 17 - Treasure Island

Grades Kindergarten through Grade 5 | 9 a.m.-4 p.m. | Tuition: $70/day

photos by John Merrick

18 Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 19

Our supportersCorporate and foundation partners help Children’s Theatre of Charlotte extend our excellent programming to more than 250,000 young people and families throughout our region.

Executive Producing Partners($50,000 and more)Arts & Science CouncilMecklenburg CountyNorth Carolina Arts CouncilReemprise FundThe Shubert FoundationTHRIVE Fund

Producing Partners($25,000 to $49,999)Bank of America FoundationBlackArch Partners

Directing Partners($10,000 to $24,999)Ally FinancialThe Cam Newton FoundationCarolina Panthers CharitiesC.D. Spangler Foundation, Inc.Continental Tire the Americas, LLCDaniel, Ratliff & CompanyPNCRodgersSPX CorporationVanguard

Standing Ovation Partners($5,000 to $9,999)Atrium HealthThe Brite Foundation Inc.Capital Bank FoundationCoca-Cola Bottling Co. Consolidated Cornwell FoundationCPI SecurityThe Dickson Foundation, Inc.Edifice, Inc.ENA Consulting, Inc.MetrographicsParker PoePwCRobinson BradshawSteelFab,Inc.

Center Stage Partners($3,000 to $4,999)Deloitte & Touche LLPK&L GatesMoore & Van Allen PLLCSentryOne

Leading Role Partners($1,000 to $2,999)The Britton Foundation

Charlotte Roller Derby Collins AerospaceECM SolutionsLancaster County Community FoundationNew Day Wellness CenterUnion County Community FoundationWells Fargo Bank NA

Leading Players Society($25,000 and more)Rob & Kate Buckfelder**Dorlisa & Peter Flur

($10,000 to $24,999)AnonymousThe Hensley FamilyJennifer & Jack RossThe Sario FamilyThe Watts Family

($5,000 to $9,999)Robin & Bill BranstromDanielle & Adam BurkeDr. Daniel DonnerBryan & Jami FarrisTravis & Lise HainRyan & Danielle HutchesonAshley & Matthew JosephMitchell KellingEdward & Florence KimBruce & Anita LaRowe**Gina & Tom LawrenceHoward & Julie LevineArrington & Burch MixonBrian & Laura Murdock**Linda Reynolds**Michelle & Tim RogersAngela & Josh SchollTammy Stringer & Richard ViolaQuanteer Williams

($3,000 to $4,999)Joan Martin & Patrick BurgessHerb & Gina Clegg**John & Nancy DicksonMr. & Mrs. Greg GonzalezLaKeisha & William JeffersonSarah & Mike KaminskiCatherine & Jerry MaloneMaddie & Brian MyersMallory Navin & Joe ShreveCharlie & Stacia Neugent

Corporate and foundation partners

Individual and family donors

Kathleen & Anthony Sciacca Brad & Whitney VineyardGreg & Susie Wilcox

($1,000 to $2,999)Omid & Julie AhdiehSylvia & Randy AllenStephen & Carolyn AllredAnonymousMr. & Mrs. Richard R. BabcockDr. Kristin BlackThe Bolton Family FoundationCrandall BowlesStoke & Julie Caldwell**John & Tracy ChandlerJack & Kim Cobb Kathy & Dallas CravenLisa & Jonathan CrottyAmy & Alfred DawsonRyan Deal & John LeonardJessica & Craig DeLuciaSidney & Andres EchevarriaTom & Julie EiseltChristi & Will FarrPatty & Alex FunderburgBeth & Gaston Gage**Jeff & Lindy GignacMatthew & Maggie GreenleeWatts & Carol HamrickBrad & Karen HarrisDavid & Marti HeadScott & Claire HelmSteve & Mary HuntingTonya JessoRebecca Steen-JorgensenCynthia & Dave Lank**Tara Garrity LebdaBruce & Michelle LongHeather & Scott McAllisterLewis & Eleanor McCurdyDoug & Mary McCurryLisa & Ken MillerMallory & Kevin MillerTeri MillerIn Memory of Jesse Mills by her familyKerbie & Brandon NealAnna & Tom NelsonJohn & Suzy NurkinAllison & Jonathan ReeceCarla & Ed RoseLisa & Glenn SherrillGreg SizemoreJanet & Joshua SmithMatt & Sherese Smith**Laurel & Chris Socha

Susan & Al Stafford**Patrick & Elizabeth VaughnAmy VitnerNichelle & Sasha WeintraubJudith & Matthew Whelan April & Thomas Whitlock Jennifer Plyler & Bert Wray

Become a member of the Leading Players SocietyCall our Development Office at 704-973-2804 or make your gift online at ctcharlotte.org.

Supporting Players Society($500 to $999)Sallie & Gary Beason Mary Alice BoydStephanie CastlesJessica & Alex Churchill Bita ClarkVeruska & Julio ColmenaresRob & Caryn CraigeBarry & Nancy DeelDiane & Bill DentonPaul DrydenPatrick & Doreen EnglishRiley FieldsMr. & Mrs. Frank FischerJill & Andrew HalverstamRenee & Chris HobartThomas & Kristina HoopsKazuo & Miwa IdeshitaJulie KeyJonathan & Anika KimZack KosofskyCharles & Brenda LaBordeDavid LundAllison & Mike MalloyJermeliah & Larry MartinSusan & Franklin McClellandJenny & Bill MerloMel & Paul NorrisLynn & David RoyerBrittany & Sam SmithRebecca SchultzJohn & Christy SheaCindy & Rob Taylor

($250 to $499)Mary-Stuart Parker Alderman FundPatrick & Emily AgnewElizabeth & Benjamin AllisonKimberly AugenbraunKathy & David BakkeKatie & Hutch BannisterThe Dale Beachum Family**Donald H. & Barbara K. Bernstein Family FoundationCourtenay & Brooke BeyerAnna & Matthew Brothers

Eric BurgessLucy BushCherise ClarkRachel & Michael CoyneMary Katherine DuboseThe Duda FamilySteve DunnAlice & Kevin EckenrodeDianne EnglishHeather & Greg FeldmanMr. & Mrs. Bert FranksJohn & Doreen GibbonPam & Bill GionoJohn & Mara GoseMarcie & Robert HainesSally & Drew HarrissTammy & Greg JonesGina & George JurchDouglas LaBrosseMegan MartinSeah & Robert McCammonAndy & Shelley MisiavegCarmalita & Tripp MonroeTodd MurphyLee & Beth NealeCaroline OlzinskiCatherine PhilpottThe Porter FamilyRich & Woods PottsJim PutnamSally & Russell RobinsonAllison SableSilverman FoundationHoward Sendrovitz & David SinclairMolly & Matt SmithJennifer & John SnyderState Employees Giving CampaignShandra StoutRosalind & Joe TaylorJeffrey TexeiraRobin & Scott Tynes-MillerDaphne WilliamsBrett & Karri WilliamsKatherine Williams

($100 to $249)Leah & Jay AbrahamKaren AmanDylan AndersonKellye & Mike ArningMary & Clint BarlowPaul & Cynthia BeugerBina BiekerMr. & Mrs. Alan BlumenthalBetsy & Chris Bohannon*Jennifer BridgesJan & Bill Sims, in Honor of Katharine CowanRennie CuthbertsonDiane DavisDennis DelamarBill & Janny DeLoacheBlair Donald**Melissa Dorsch

Our supportersThe support of the following community leaders enables us to hire the best artists, designers and directors, bring new stories to life on our stages and support access initiatives like sensory-friendly performances and our $2 ticket program for families who receive public assistance. Our donors enjoy access to exclusive benefit packages that extend the magic of our work beyond the stage and classroom. We thank you for your kindness.

20 Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 21

The Campos & Flansburg FamilyRoberta Gamble*Cynthia & Henry GassAndrew GibbonMagda GuichardArlethia HailstockChristina HegginsJonah HeinMartha HirschJ.T. & Jo-Ann HolzingerOlivia & Andrew HortonMr. & Mrs. Stuart JohnsonGrayson JordanThe Kalyon FamilyAnn Kimbro and Mark SmithBen KingKathi & John Knier**Adam McBroom & Lee LaBordeSarah & Tony LathropLouise & Jerry LawsonKarla LeverTrudy LudwigJanet & Rich LymanRobin & John MaxwellElliott & Jennifer McCabe*Dorothy McMillanThe Merklein FamilyLinda Miller*Nancy Morris, in Honor of Kelly Carder MorrisRob Eastman-MullinsTom & Grig MurdockKara OlsenMichael & Allison OrtlipTim & Kim ParatiJerry & Cookie Parnell**Jena & Joe PedroliSteven Levine & Shawnna PledgerAlicia & Jay PowersThe Qasim FamilyJennifer & Sam ReavesShannon & Rob ReichleyMr. & Mrs. Jason RhymerLucy RobinsonRebecca & Jay ScrogginsMelissa ShelleyKaren SteeleWendy StricklandWes & Claudia SturgesRobert SquibbClaire & John TateSheri & Chris TatumJason ThrowerGreg & Sandra VlahosElizabeth WallerMary WareAnne WarrenJayke WatsonMarsha WigginsAlston O. WolfThe Wray FamilyCara & Jake Yara

($50 to $99)Carol AdlerElena AirapetianLaurie BellDrew BranhamKatrina BurrettElizabeth CassanoRuss CearleyDonna ChambersBrent ClevengerMichael & Katharine Cowan*Ann CrehoreRobin & James CochranSally DaggettCharles DeckerEmily McCurdy & Joe DennenyRobin DickerShirley Dowling*Dave & Eileen DunlapMeeghan FarleyChris & Sharon FerrisBill & Susan Floyd*Heather FoxStacy FreedJo GalbraithRosemary GraidageGary & Pushpa GrossAmanda & Mark GuilePatrick HamrickNicolette HarrisBonnie HartMicah HeinChip & Kristine Lofton, in Honor of Claire HelmSteven IveyChandra JohnsonJohnny JohnsonSusan & Rob JohnsonMary KandellRonald & Mary Margaret KantorConnie & George KnightAthena KortesisTim Waples & Anne LambertJake LeblancPage LeggettMichael LeithRebecca LevyBrooke LowryClaire LukensCharlotte & Dung LyMary Lou MaherSuzette McDanielValecia McDowellJohn McIntoshNicole MimsDavid Miller*Lori MolitorVelda MolitorAdam MontagueLexin MurphyAmanda & Charles MurphyElisabeth NardonyCatherine & Rob Odum

Harriet OllmanSarah & Joseph Parisi*Margot & Steve ParrottEmily PasourSarah+ & Robert PeacockKatie PohlheberEmily PorgesTeresa PowellValerie PrestonKimberly ProudmanTommy PrudentiMary PughBrooke RugglesStanley RuppeAnat RussellRoxanne RussellRebecca SchumanMavis ScullyGinger & John SeabrookSara SeelapasayKathryn ShawLaura ShwedoJohn SlechtaDanielle SmithBecky SowellTheckla SterrettPatricia St. Clair, in Honor of Julie St. ClairDiane StockerEverett & Katrinka Talbot*Sylwia ThorntonLakiesha TorrenceTara VanCleaveLaura WalgerLaura WilliamsLynne WilliamsCatherine Woolner

ENCORE!ENCORE!, our volunteer organization, is comprised of nearly 200 individuals of all ages and backgrounds who play a vital role in the theatre’s success. In addition to ushering at performances, ENCORE! coordinates Santa’s Bag, one of our largest annual fundraising and charity events. They also plan and host Children’s Theatre of Charlotte's annual gala, Celebrate! and our annual Women’s Doubles Tennis Tournament.

DonorsBy joining our family of supporters, you are linking arms with more than 300 families across the region who believe in the power, relevance and positive impact of exceptional theatre experiences. Together, we inspire generations to explore the wonder of their world.

Tammy Jones, 2019-2020ENCORE! PresidentPatty AdamsEmily AgnewMary Stuart AldermanDonna AlliottiCammie AnderesTina ApostolopoulosMitzi ArzaniMary Jo AshcraftMary BabcockPam BaileyMary BarlowMindy BassVicki BeachumSallie BeasonMary Martha BeecyKaty BeltzJenny BonackCindy BookeWhitney BouknightMary BoydRobin BranstromAnne BrooksKate BuckfelderClaire BuieEmmy Lou BurchetteAnn BurtonShirley ByrdJulie CaldwellShawn CaldwellAnsley CalhounRebecca CanadyNancy CarltonCristi CarrasLori CarterLisa CashionKatie CharleboisLeesa ClardyGina CleggGinny CobbSydney CoffinRuthie ConstineStephanie CornettKaren CotchettKatharine CowanNicole CoxCaryn CraigeKathy CravenLiz CrowtherSusie CulpPatti DanielLisa DanielsJennifer Davis-MartinMary DayNancy DeelJanny DeLoacheStowe DemarestSavany DemminkIna DeRochiBlair DonaldSloan DudleyStacy Ellyson

Jennifer EngelHeather FeldmanSharon FerrisSusan FloydSally FochtmannAmy FranklinPatty FunderburgBeth GageGayle GageGyni GarnerCynthia GassTracy GeiselEllen GibsonAmy GodwinJulia GolonkaLizz GreggAnita GriffinGayle HackneyLise HainMarcie HainesShannon HallJill HalverstamPaige HamiltonJulie HammondKimberly HansonTerrill HardawaySally HarrissJennie HawesMerritt HazzardCatherine HensleyClaire HerringTammy HerrmannChristie HinshawAmy HitchensKathy HorvathJane HunterLaurie HutchinsGibbs IvesSusan JohnsonDiana JonesJessie JonesKendall JonesMindy JonesTammy JonesJenny JoynerMimi KaneMary-Margaret KantorEmily KennedyJoy KenneyFlorence KimSallie KlingmanKathi KnierJoye LamberthElizabeth LangstonPerrin LangstonCynthia LankGinna LaporteSarah LathropSharon LevineLinda LoveMary Louise LoweMary Lunsford

Mitzi LynchMichele ManganCindy MarkeyEvaline MarshallClaire MarstonHeather MartinMary Brooks MaundHeather McAllisterJennifer McCabeJane McCollMary Ellen McElroyLiz McIntoshDebbie McNealyKim McSwainJenny MerloLindsay MerrittUtahnah MillerMallory MillerKaren MillerJennifer MiraliaCatherine MonroeKim MooreKelly MosbyMichelle MulliganLaura MurdockTara MurphyBeth NealeSuzy NurkinJean OdomLori O'KeefeAllison OrtlipAngie PackerCatharine PappasMarnie ParkCookie ParnellDore PellicciottaPhyllis PerryKerri PorterMary Margaret PorterSusan PorterWoods PottsAnn RansonDonna RasileMimi ReesRuby ReinhardJudy RobinsonWoodie RobinsonEllie RoseNancy RuaneSarah RyanSamantha SchmergeGinger SeabrookTessa ShaneClaire ShapackAnn SheaCatinna SiderisJulie SimmonsAshley SmithDorothy SmithSherese SmithMary Beth SnyderLeAnn Sommerkamp

Meredith SorrellSusan SpeckmanGina SpenceSusan StaffordPatricia StenhousePam StoweBecky StoweCaryl StriblingVirginia SuttonNancy TarggartCarol ThomasReaves ThompsonMarsha ThrasherLisa TomchinMarrene TweryCathlean UtzigAlison Van PeltElizabeth VaughnLori VeithSandy VlahosMargaret WagersKristine WahrLaura WalgerJulie Wall-BurrisNichelle WeintraubBetsy WesterbergLois WhartonDebbie WhelchelDebbie WhiteVirginia WhiteLeeAnne WhitleyApril WhitlockMarsha WigginsSusie WilcoxKatherine WilliamsKarri WilliamsSara WillisKelly Young

+ Denotes deceased

* Donations made to the Sarah Leggett Peacock Memorial Fund.

**Indicates additional support to the Sarah Leggett Peacock Memorial Fund.

Other donations include: Ginny & Roger Cobb, Michele & Stephen Mangan, Woodie & Shep Robinson, and Lynn & James Pope.

We appreciate your support. If we have misspelled or omitted your name, please call our Development Office at 704-973-2804. Gifts current as of Jan. 8, 2020.

22 Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 23

SUMMER CAMP PREVIEWCatch a sneak peek of what's on tap for summer.

REGISTRATION OPENS JANUARY 31.Visit ctcharlotte.org for details.

>>>

Early Childhood CampsAges 3 to 5

Primary CampsRising K-2nd grade

Musical Performance & Acting CampsRising 3rd-6th grade

Summer Teen StudiosRising 7th-12th grade

Disney's 101 Dalmatians KIDSThe Somewhat True Tales of Robin HoodDisney's Frozen Jr.

PLUS...a surprise musical to be announced soon!

FrankensteinCurtains Young@Part Freaky Friday One-Act Edition

PLUS...more musical, acting andtech camps

Magic Castle, Zoo Crew, Fairy Friends, and Wheels on the Bus

Rainbow Rockstars, AstronautAdventures, and Mermaid Mysteries

ExcitingTitles!

980-355-0900

2830 Dorchester Pl, Charlotte, NC 28209

Appreciation of a child’s

individuality

Lively, joyful learning

Real world experiences

A legacy of consistent

educational excellence

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•

•

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24 Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 25

tcs-ctcAd.indd 1 7/31/19 3:43 PM

Thank you for investing in tomorrow’s leadersBank of America is proud to support Children’s Theatre of Charlotte for showing our young people that hard work, teamwork and reaching for excellence can lead to a bright tomorrow.

You’re an inspiration to our future leaders and to us all.

Visit us at bankofamerica.com/about.

©2019 Bank of America Corporation | AR64WX5V | ENT-215-AD

pnc.com

©2019 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved. PNC Bank, National Association. Member FDIC

that serving the community makes a lasting impact.

26 Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 27

WHEREPERFORMANCEMEETS POTENTIAL

Providing a structured, individualized, K-12 college preparatory curriculum for students

with learning differences.

704.365.4658 | thefletcherschool.org | 8500 Sardis Road | Charlotte, NC 28270

Providing a structured, individualized, K-12 collegepreparatory curriculum for students with learning differences.

www.thefletcherschool.org

Nourishing communities.

We are proud to support

those who nourish

because the stars who l ight up the stage

are the people who l ight up our l ives.

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 2928 Children’s Theatre of Charlotte28

Children's Theatre of Charlotte

THE OAKS"A New Model for A New Generation"

At the Oaks, we offer an excellent, Christ-centerededucation in a unique school environment.  We focus

on developing the whole child - mind, body and heart- and incorporate multiple learning strategies (visual,auditory and kinesthetic) into each of our active and

experiential lessons.

For more information, including our Admissions OpenHouse dates, visit us online or call 980.242.9933 to

schedule your visit today!

WWW.THEOAKSCHARLOTTE.ORG

Looking to add that something special to your experience? For a few dollars more, you’ll have the opportunity to meet and greet cast members on

stage, take a photo and more after select performances.

Enhance Your Experience

Look for this symbol and visit ctcharlotte.org for specific performance times and dates to

enhance your experience.

2019-2020 SEASONGRIMMZ Fairy TalesFeb. 21 to Mar. 15, 2020For ages 6 and older Wells Fargo PlayhouseThemes: the power of music, helping others

Havana HopFeb. 29 and Mar. 1, 2020For ages 4 and older McColl Family TheatreThemes: family values, cultural appreciation

Dragons Love TacosApr. 3 to May 3, 2020For ages 4 and older McColl Family TheatreThemes: traditions, new friends

Afflicted: Daughters of SalemApr. 17 to Apr. 26, 2020For ages 12 and older Themes: social pressures, psychology

BalloonacyMay 27 to June 7, 2020For ages 2 and older (PreK)Themes: friendship, imagination, acceptance

A mischievous balloon finds its way into the home of a solitary old man, and suddenly his curmudgeonly life is interrupted. Sweet, inventive and packed with physical comedy, this play explores the power of friendship and shows how, with a little imagination and acceptance, companionship can be found in the most unlikely of places.

This Cuban-inspired one-woman show fuses a young girl’s passion with culture and family history. Creator Paige Hernandez introduces us to multiple characters using props, music, dance and costumes on a journey that’s as exciting as it is enlightening. Audiences will have the opportunity to participate in this fun-filled show.

Jay and Will Grimmz, the hip-hop fable story dance-pop sensations, have come back home to the city where they grew up to give a concert. They’re known not just for their sounds but for their powerful storytelling, an inventive remix of familiar classics. The brothers put a modern spin on valuable life lessons in Snow White and the Seven Shawties, Down with Rapunzel, Hanzel & Gretel: Lost in the Hood, and their featured first Granny-winning song, Break, Cinderella, Break! Pay your bling, hear them sing and get ready to drop the mic in this unforgettable theatrical experience.

In a time when singing, dancing and indulgence were for-bidden, fears ran wild in the New England society. Five girls coming of age in Salem Village make a pact to stay bonded as sisters in a secret society. But peer pressure and politics weigh heavily on the shoulders of Abigail, Ann, Mercy, Mary and Betty. This powerful telling of the circumstances preceding the Salem witch trials exposes a powder keg environment that ignites a series of dark events the world will never forget.

What could go wrong when you give a dragon spicy salsa? EVERYTHING. The #1 New York Times bestselling phenomenon comes to life in a big way as the taco party of all taco parties literally brings down the house. This deliciously funny story will have you laughing out loud and wishing you read the fine print more closely: Now Made with Spicy Jalapeno Peppers.

In 2018, Children’s Theatre of Charlotte launched a unique endeavor called The Kindness Project. Since then, we’ve commissioned four world-premiere plays with kindness as the central theme. We’ve also created a special bracelet that you and your family can request (for free) and wear as a reminder and a symbol to be kind, spread kindness and live kindly.

We truly believe kindness is a team effort, and we hope you’ll join us.

Share your stories of kindness: Visit ctcharlotte.org/kindness

Maybe you brought a neighbor’s newspaper to his or her door. Perhaps you volunteered in a classroom or paid for the coffee of the person in line behind you. Maybe you've seen someone else do something kind. Share your story.

Spread kindness: Use #CTCKindnessProject

We want kindness to spread beyond our stage. So, in your travels, or wherever life takes you, take photo and upload it explaining how you wove kindness into your day. Reach out to our Box Office if you're interested in getting a free Kindness Project bracelet to wear as a reminder to live kindly. They're awesome.

Check out these great shows!

#22281677

Children’s Theatre CLT

“Wizard of Oz”

7.75” x 4.75”

4c

Strut your stuffAt Providence Day, we encourage our students to step out of their comfort zones and harness their creativity as

forms of self-expression and discovery.

www.ProvidenceDay.org/CelebrateTheArts

#CelebrateTheArts

Pictured above: Providence Day Lower, Middle, and Upper School musical “The Wizard of Oz”

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte 3130 Children's Theatre of Charlotte