​Great question! The activities are designed to provide structures for artistic investigation and collaboration as well as family conversations on the themes embedded in the stories. Families can decide for themselves whether they would prefer to read the activity sheets before the program and engage in the activities as they listen, or if they prefer to use the activity sheets to extend learning after they have listened to the program. Each activity sheet includes simple instructions, a list of materials (which we are keeping minimal and simple so that everyone can participate without any need to buy supplies), and ideas for bonus activities and reflection. They are ALL designed to be fun and also help build confidence and connection to the music and each other.

​Whether or not they ever play a musical instrument, audition for a play, submit their art to an art gallery or their poetry for publication, these inter-generational activities help us see each other in a new light and are the types of experiences children remember for the rest of their lives.

Seattle, Wash.-- Seattle Children’s Theatre and KING FM present a 10-week education series titled Saturday Morning Stories to bring beloved children’s literature to life through a crescendo of whimsical melodies and narrated plots. Hand selected titles like Goodnight Moon and Peter and the Wolf take families on a classical music adventure where they can simultaneously engage in activities uniquely curated by SCT for each production that the whole family can enjoy. Listeners can tune in at 8:30 a.m. beginning August 15 through October 17, 2020.
 
“This collaboration with KING FM is a wonderful opportunity to combine our resources and offer the  experience of the performing arts from the comfort of your home,” says SCT Director of Education, Johamy Morales. “Through our activity guides and new curriculum, we hope to provide caregivers and young people with the tools they need to spark their own curiosity, courage, and play.”

KING FM, which reaches up to 250,000 weekly listeners across Puget Sound, has made it their mission to make classical music accessible for everyone in the community and to advocate for the arts throughout the region. “Teachers and parents use Classical KING FM to introduce children to classical music, and the station has additional programs to supplement this important work,” says Blaine Shepherd, Director of Programming and Corporate Support at KING FM.
 
The weekly activities, designed by long time SCT teaching artist and Curriculum Specialist, Meredith Berlin, offer all families a chance to play regardless of age. “The activities are designed to provide structures for artistic investigation and collaboration as well as family conversations on the themes embedded in the stories. Each activity sheet includes simple instructions, a list of materials, and ideas for bonus activities and reflection. They are all designed to be fun while building confidence and connection to the music and each other,” says Berlin, adding that listeners can engage the activities before or after the program, tailoring the experience for their family.
 
Families can learn more about Saturday Morning Stories and join in on the weekly fun by visiting www.king.org. Weekly activities will be made available up to one week prior to each production and will be available for review and download at www.sct.org.

 
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About Meredith Berlin (she/her), Curriculum Designer -  Curriculum Specialist and Teaching Artist, Meredith has taught SCT drama school students of every age and level for over twenty years. She has performed as an actor and dancer on stages in Seattle and Washington DC. She is also a director, choreographer, and is the author of The Ghost Light Kids Get Hooked, an adventure inspired by her experiences behind the scenes at SCT and other theaters. Meredith has received grants from both the Seattle and King County Arts Commissions.
 
Seattle Children’s Theatre is internationally recognized as a leading producer of professional theatre, educational programs and new works for young audiences, which have entertained, inspired and educated over 4 million children and their families. Since its inception, SCT has produced more than 260 plays, 115 of which are world premieres. Each season nearly 60,000 students and teachers experience the magic of live theatre through our Student Access Series. For this program, SCT subsidizes $1.3 million in significantly reduced and free tickets to make attending the theatre more accessible for schools in the region.  The 2018-2019 season is sponsored by Microsoft, Shubert Foundation, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and ArtsFund. Stay up to date with SCT by visiting our blog.
 
About KING FM -  Classical KING FM 98.1 is the primary institution developing new audiences for classical music and the arts in Seattle, Bellevue, and the Puget Sound Region. Listener-supported KING FM is located at Seattle Center with a mission to make classical music accessible for everyone in the community and to advocate for the arts in our region. In addition to creating programming that offers everyone in the region an opportunity to make classical music and the arts a part of daily life, Classical KING FM partners with arts and culture organizations of all size and scope in the region, offering broadcast performances of local concerts as well as an opportunity for local musicians to perform on our signature Friday evening program Northwest Focus LIVE. The Northwest Focus Concert Calendar offers listeners the opportunity to learn more about concerts and events to encourage them to deepen their involvement with classical music and the arts by attending and supporting the excellent performing organizations the region boasts.
 
More than 15,000 members are supporters of Classical KING FM, helping to pave the way for a bright future for the station, and bringing the richness of classical music to diverse audiences in the rapidly growing Puget Sound Region.

​​Sensory Drama is what happens when you reimagine traditional creative drama (facilitated group storytelling) to make it more inclusive of all kinds of learners and players! Sensory Drama classes have built-in moments for sensory engagement (seeing and hearing but also feeling, smelling, and moving our bodies through space). This helps class work for both students who are sensory seeking and those with sensory processing challenges, while simultaneously strengthening instruction for all learners, as it gives everyone more options for how to get and stay engaged! Other accommodations are provided as well. When we intentionally include young people with disabilities in our programming, we all win. 


These Sensory Drama summer classes are specifically for students with disabilities. We feel that holding space for these students is always important, but particularly important right now, as they have been disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 initiated shift to online learning. We want to show these students and these families how much they are valued by offering these experiences, tailor-made for them. 

So many fun accommodations! The biggest feature of Sensory Drama is, of course, its focus on multimodal sensory engagement, but we provide other accommodations as well. Once families register, all families will have access to a social story, detailing exactly what they should expect during class. This can help to alleviate anxiety and demystify the unfamiliar social situation created by distance learning. During class, we will follow a visual schedule to help ease transitions between activities. Also— and this is a big suggestion that came from consultant Talleri MacRae—we will be upfront about our expectation that not all families will stay connected for the entire class each day. Things happen, and we’ll provide families with enough structure that they can “finish” each class on their own time. Finally, we may provide accommodations for specific students’ needs, like modifying instruction for a physical activity for a student in a wheelchair or encouraging students who use Alternative/ Augmentative Communication (AAC) to use these devices. ​

This is a guardian and me experience because Sensory Drama is about connection, and it’s sometimes hard to feel that connection through a screen! We connect when we share in sensory experiences (when we touch the same soft fabric or smell the same smell of lavender). Guardians (and other members of your household) can expect to be fully included in the experience. We will play together! ​

I’ve been teaching virtual classes for young people with disabilities since March, and I’ve been completely inspired by the transition to online instruction. Just as I am inspired by the challenge of accommodating for individual students’ needs, I am inspired by the challenge of this online platform— it has its own constraints and affordances and has made me more creative as an educator! When a change prompts us to question our assumptions about how things must be done, new possibilities emerge. ​

Whether it’s two friends, a great distance, or just the dots, connecting to the people and things in the world around us is imperative. Right now, it can also be quite challenging. This month at SCT, we are taking the time to focus on how we connect with our audience, community and friends – near and far! The best way we know how to connect is through art, and even though the doors to our theatre may be closed for now, it isn’t stopping us from creating, sharing, and teaching. For generations, SCT has been a friend and resource to young people and their families, and that is a connection that will never waiver.

So read on to discover all the ways SCT continues to connect to our valued audience – nationally, regionally and locally.

We are excited to announce that on August 15, SCT will partner with KING-FM 98.1 for a 10-week educational series featuring the musical accompaniments from a number of our past productions including Goodnight Moon, Peter and the Wolf, and more! In addition to the experience of listening to these iconic scores and books, SCT’s education staff and teaching artists will be creating curriculum and activities to accompany each book narrative from home, designed to engage your student’s body, voice, and imagination.

KING-FM reaches across the Greater Puget Sound with up to 300,000 listeners a week, and with a simple click of a button you can join us on Saturday morning starting August 15 for an experience your whole family will love. Visit us online for more information from us and our friends at KING-FM on when and where you can tune in! Who knows, the music from your favorite SCT show may just be featured.

Join us in thanking one of SCT's great partners who really show us how to make connections. ArtsFund has been supporting the mission of SCT for decades and this year is no different. We were thrilled to be a recipient of one of their Arts Emergency Relief grants in May. We aren't alone! This spring ArtsFund provided $5.3M in grants to 111 organizations. Celebrating a major milestone this year, they have been connecting our community to the arts for 50 years. ArtsFund strengthens the community by supporting the arts through leadership, advocacy, and grant-making and SCT is thrilled to be connected to this great organization.

We are thrilled that we have been able to find new ways to connect with our students with virtual Summer Drama Classes. August marks the final month of summer classes, and over the course of the last 2 months, we have been able to welcome over 600 students from 14 states across the country to gather within SCT’s virtual walls. 

Encouraging connection through a virtual setting can be challenging, but our teaching artists and students have found success through SCT’s intimate class sizes and new roster of summer classes including unique affinity options and upcoming classes like Intro to Puppetry, Sensory Drama, and Stand Up classes for BIPOC students. It has been 2 months of supreme creativity and fun, and we can’t wait to see what August will bring!

Join Aiko Bethea as she facilitates a powerful (and virtual) discussion with Khalia Davis, Kennedy Dawson, LaNesha DeBardelaben, and Johamy Morales on how history, education, personal experience, and art intersect, equip, and inspire young people to change the world. As part of SCT and Northwest African American Museum’s audience, you have priority access to this exclusive prerecorded event on Saturday, August 1 at 10 a.m. or Sunday, August 2 at 5 p.m. Mark your calendars today and plan to join us on SCT's YouTube Channel for this exclusive post-show event! 

A groundbreaking collaboration among 37 Theatres for Young Audiences across the United States, led by the lead producing team of Bay Area Children’s Theatre, Seattle Children’s Theatre, and Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, will present  the virtual premiere of A Kids Play About Racism, a theatrical adaptation of Jelani Memory’s A Kids Book About Racism. Premiering August 1 and 2 on the streaming platform Broadway On Demand, the new work is adapted and directed by award-winning director and TYA artist Khalia Davis and will be brought to life by an entirely Black and BIPOC cast and creative team from across the United States. A Kids Play About Racism will utilize theatre to offer young children and families a way to engage in meaningful conversation about race.

Khalia Davis

Adaptor and Director of A Kid’s Play About Racism, bicoastal multidisciplinary artist, and recipient of TYA/USA’s 2019 Emerging Leader Fellowship.

​

​Aiko Bethea

Recognized by Forbes and CultureAmp as a preferred anti-racism and DEI educator and consultant, Atlanta-based attorney, and former SCT Board of Trustees.

​LaNesha DeBardelaben 

Executive Director at Northwest African American Museum, 20+ year career building success for Black museums, national president of the Association of African American Museums Board of Directors.

​Johamy Morales

SCT’s Director of Education, Trustee for Theatre Communication Group, featured panelist for Colorado Creative Industries and TCG’s Rising Leaders of Color.

​Kennedy Dawson

A senior at Holy Names Academy, is honored to be a part of today's discussion. Kennedy is an active participant in her high school theatre department and has performed in multiple SCT productions. Kennedy considers herself a social activist and hopes to use her art as a platform to inspire younger kids of color to be unafraid to use their voices.

I had known that I had wanted to apply for the Teaching Artist Internship since I had heard about SCT in a TYA History course at my university. This theatre that values inclusivity, acceptance, and connection was an absolute dream for me. Growing up in Orlando, FL, I had never been to Seattle, or hardly any of the West Coast so, naturally, I was so excited to get to see what theatre was like on the other side of the country. Then, the COVID-19 pandemic swept through our world. I was terrified that the internship that I had dreamt of would no longer be a possibility. But, thanks to the amazing staff of SCT, Drama School Virtual Classes and a virtual Teaching Artist Internship were still possible. Though this internship has been different than expected, I have still found as much care and intentionality from the staff via a virtual platform, as I would have experienced in person.

Initially, I was nervous about how I could feel connected, since I would be doing the internship from the complete opposite part of the country. However, SCT made me feel so connected, included, and accepted. During the very first week, working alongside Brodrick Ryans (Education Coordinator), we shared experiences of growing up in the Southeast, a desire to share stories on stage of those who have not had a voice, and a love for seeing the growth in students. It was moments like these with teaching artists over the summer that made me feel connected and valued.
One of the most wonderful parts of this internship has been getting to know the eight other interns in the 2020 class. From virtual movie nights to hangouts over Zoom, these other interns have been intentional to keep the community that comes with an internship alive and thriving even in a virtual setting. These individuals have supported, inspired, and accepted me and made the family of SCT feel so real and tangible.
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The term “SCT family” had been used before and during my internship experience, and I can honestly say that I have felt that sense of community and family from the moment I accepted this internship. SCT has gone above and beyond to ensure that I have felt accepted and supported, not only as an intern, but as a person. From check-ins with Johamy Morales (Director of Education) and Tiffany Maltos (Associate Education Director), to chats with Liz Cohn (Arts-Based Learning Manager) about our shared Floridian experiences, the staff has made me feel like a part of the family, even though I am 2,500 miles away. This internship experience over the summer has renewed my hope for the future of theatre and arts education in a post COVID world. We may be living in uncertain times, but one thing is for sure: being a part of the internship class of 2020 has changed my life for the better.

On December 31, 2019, with seconds to go, voices around the world made proclamations that the year 2020 would be one of perfect vision. As the countdown ensued and the last notes of Auld Lang Syne ushered in yet another January, none of the predictions made from futurists, academics or the government could forecast the global reckoning and revelations to come. 20/20, a term typically used to reflect one's visual acuity, would now metaphorically reflect the world’s account of a deadly pandemic—one that has claimed the lives of so many. The reality is that this pandemic has separated families, promoted fear, evoked anger, revealed truths, challenged policy, and shut down the world.  The PANDEMIC I speak of is called racism and it did not begin to reveal its ugly truth in 2020. For over 400 years, we have witnessed the normalization of legalized oppression of people of color, while many have continued to turn a blind eye.  We must not only open our eyes but also open our mouths and start to have these difficult conversations about race, specifically with our children.

I must warn you that this is not radical discourse of finger pointing and judgement (at least that is not the intent).  It is neither a placated account made more palatable to those who have grappled with this very difficult conversation.  It is; however, a sincere offering of my experiences in discussing race, prejudice and the Black Lives Matter movement with my children, and supporting those in my sphere who have sought ways to engage these topics with their children.  I am no expert or teacher of all things race.  But I am a student of the world who navigates as a woman of color, charged with leading four young minds (my children) to make wise decisions that will impact our world. More importantly, I am a part of a communal movement of those who have not always followed the precepts of what is appropriate to say or appropriate to do, but we continue to seek opportunities to learn more in order to do better.

Therefore, the question becomes when it is appropriate to have conversations with your kids about racism.  My husband and I started these conversations as early as kindergarten after noticing the shift in our children’s interactions when meeting new friends. We would start with questions that could range from something as simple as, “How was your day?” to “Who did what and why and how did that make you feel?” We soon discovered that at some point, the questions would begin to come from them.  I  recently recall when my seven year old son entered my bedroom as my husband and I were watching,  what was then, a peaceful demonstration on television. As he peered at the screen, he asked me why the people were marching.  I began to explain to him that a man named George Floyd died.  He turned and then asked, “Was he sick?”  My reply was “…no, the police killed him and that’s why all of those people are marching.”  He then said, “Are those people his family?” I smiled at him, envious of his innocence as pure as the lamb in a John Donne metaphysical poem and replied, “They are now!”   And just when I thought the line of questioning was over, he asked “why are they yelling black lives matter!”  I said, “Because sadly, for some reason, there are those who believe that they don’t.” He gave an inquisitive stare, which shifted to resolve and exited the room.

​These conversations have an entirely different tone when speaking to my twenty year old son whose simple drive to the grocery store requires two checklists: one with a list of items needed, and the other a mental checklist of do’s and don’ts to make it home safely.  Then there is my teenage daughter whose most upsetting account of racism or prejudice is witnessing her school administrators and teachers target black students for their dress code, hairstyles and argot. Nevertheless, the last conversation is one of an entirely different tone. It is bittersweet as I whisper in the ear of my differently abled (special needs) son who is completely unaware of the perils of the world.  Each tear is a shared emotion of gratitude and grief.  But what also grieves my spirit is that due to the unfair treatment of people of color, social justice movements, such as Black Lives Matter, must exist to both advocate and remind. The Black Lives Matter movement has been fighting to be heard since 2013’s urgent need to bring attention to police brutality. The impetus for this movement was the death of 17-year-old Trayvon Martin in 2012. Despite their valiant efforts, more and more lives are lost to police brutality and the saga continues. There are those who feel the need to remind us that all lives matter-and they do. But this dismissive response and inability to acknowledge black lives further complicates the notion that “they” truly believe that black lives are a part of the ALL lives they tout. There is reciprocal value in these types of conversations, and we imbue our allies and all to do something differently.  My hope is the suggestions listed below will serve as a starting point in an effort to retain that innocence that celebrates the beauty of the world and not the perils of humanity. 


1. My first recommendation to start these tough conversations with young impressionable minds is to do just that, START somewhere.  As the quote states, “there are two mistakes one can make along the road to truth…not going all the way, and not starting” –Buddha

2. Acknowledge your own blind spots or micro aggressions before having these conversations. Be open to evaluating your lens of perspective before influencing theirs.  

3. Choose your words carefully.  Words have the power to embolden or dishearten. Which will you be responsible for? Our children are watching, listening and responding.

4. Identify teachable moments. Nurturing these moments help to impart tolerance and understanding. Our children look to us to find meaning in this world, so take advantage of those opportunities.

5. Discover parallels through avenues of interest like gaming, sports, and arts.

6. Utilize technology. Depending on the age, utilize social media as a catalyst for discussion. Though radical thinking and misinformation can be found on some platforms, there are organizations and reputable institutions, like that post responsible content that can jumpstart the conversation.

7. Find mirrors and windows through literacy. Conversations about race are not just about how others see you, but how you see yourself in the world.  Find the mirrors and windows of opportunity to teach them about themselves and those around them. Cicely Lewis, founder of the literacy initiative READ WOKE, provides a comprehensive list of books that are authored by or have main characters who are people of color.

8. The Arts. The arts promote confidence, ensemble ethic, unity, and empathy.  Young learners can create their own art (visual or performance) or attend an artistic experience and use it as the impetus for discussion.

THEATRE FOR YOUNG AUDIENCES/USA (TYA/USA) 
ANNOUNCES 

THE VIRTUAL PREMIERE OF
A KIDS PLAY ABOUT RACISM

AWARD-WINNING TYA ARTIST KHALIA DAVIS LEADS AN ALL BLACK CAST AND CREATIVE TEAM FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY IN ADAPTING JELANI MEMORY’S A KIDS BOOK ABOUT RACISM 

37 TYA THEATRES ACROSS THE NATION ARE CO-PRODUCING THE VIRTUAL PERFORMANCE, LED BY BAY AREA CHILDREN’S THEATRE, SEATTLE CHILDREN’S THEATRE, AND ALLIANCE THEATRE

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New York, NY, July 13, 2020 – A groundbreaking collaboration among 37 Theatres for Young Audiences across the United States, led by the lead producing team of Bay Area Children’s Theatre, Seattle Children’s Theatre, and Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, will present  the virtual premiere of A Kids Play About Racism, a theatrical adaptation of Jelani Memory’s A Kids Book About Racism. Premiering August 1 and 2 on the streaming platform Broadway On Demand, the new work is adapted and directed by award-winning director and TYA artist Khalia Davis and will be brought to life by an entirely Black and BIPOC cast and creative team from across the United States. A Kids Play About Racism will utilize theatre to offer young children and families a way to engage in meaningful conversation about race.

The new work is adapted and directed by award-winning director and TYA artist Khalia Davis and will be brought to life by an entirely Black and BIPOC cast and creative team from across the United States, including Seattle-based educators and artists Johamy Morales (Seattle Children’s Theatre Director of Education), Brodrick Santeze Ryans (Seattle Children’ Theatre Education Coordinator), Jason Turner (Museum Educator and Tour Guide for the Northwest African American Museum), Nikki Toombs (Education Director at True Colors Theatre), Marquicia (Qui Qui) Dominguez (Seattle Based Teaching Artist) and Amberlee Joers (Seattle Theatre Group’s Broadway Education Administrator). 

As part of the production, educational materials developed by SCT in collaboration with the Northwest African American Museum will extend the experience and enhance age-appropriate engagement. “SCT is proud to be co-producing A Kid’s Play About Racism in collaboration with the talented artists and institutions from across the nation" says SCT Managing Director Kevin Malgesini, "Khalia Davis and Jelani Memory’s work is a profound way to elevate Black voices and share them with young people. This production also serves as a reminder that while our doors are closed, we are still making powerful art that connects our local, regional and national communities during this unprecedented time." ​All 37 partnering theatres are members of Theatre for Young Audiences USA (TYA/USA), the national organization representing the field of theatre for children and family audiences.

“I jumped at the opportunity to adapt Jelani Memory's book A Kids Book About Racism into a theatrical piece for young audiences simply because it meant we were recognizing the importance of including children in these difficult conversations,” shared lead artist Khalia Davis. “This show embraces the full spectrum of emotional response children may have as they navigate comprehending racism and how it may affect them." 

“When I wrote A Kids Book About Racism, I wrote it from my own kids. I never could have imagined it would have spread so far and wide to thousands of kids all over the world, or turned into a nationwide theatrical event.  I am thrilled to see what Khalia and these other amazing artists create,” offered Jelani Memory, whose book provides the inspiration for the production. A Kids Book about Racism is part of Memory’s children’s book publishing company A Kids Book About, which offers titles on a range of big topics to explore including feminism, belonging, gratitude, cancer, and many more.  

The scale and breadth of this co-production has been made possible in part through the network cultivated by TYA/USA, which connects organizations and artists across the country focused on theatre for young people and families. Through the last few months, TYA/USA has offered a range of programming to provide deep connections and resource sharing in response to COVID-19. Through this network, TYA theatres across the country have been able to come together to find ways to support each other and their audiences through new and innovative collaboration models.

A Kids Play About Racism will be streaming on Broadway On Demand on August 1 and 2 along with accompanying interviews and educational videos.

A Kids Play About Racism  is adapted and directed by Khalia Davis, with music composed by Justin Ellington and Costume Design by Ron McCann (California). It will be performed by Davied Morales (California), Angel Adedokun (California), Moses Goods (Hawaii), Rapheal Hamilton (Arizona), Isaiah Harris (Texas), Jessenia Ingram (Georgia), and Regan Sims (New York). 

The work is produced by Seattle Children’s Theatre, Bay Area Children’s Theatre, and Alliance Theatre, in partnership with Adventure Theatre MTC, Arts on the Horizon, Children's Theatre of Charlotte, Chicago Children's Theatre, Children's Theater of Madison, Children’s Theatre Company, Childsplay, Children's Theatre of Cincinnati, Coterie Theatre, Dallas Children's Theater, Dare to Dream Theatre, Des Moines Performing Arts, Filament Theatre, First Stage, Honolulu Theatre for Youth, Imagination Stage, The Kennedy Center, Magik Theatre, Metro Theater Company, Nashville Children's Theatre, New York City Children's Theater, Oregon Children's Theatre, Orlando Repertory Theatre, Pink Umbrella Theater Company, ReNew Productions, Rose Theater, Seattle Children's Theatre The Growing Stage - The Children's Theatre of New Jersey, The Gottabees, The Open Eye Theater, TheatreWorksUSA, Trike Theatre, Trusty Sidekick Theater Company, Wheelock Family Theatre at Boston University, and Orpheum Theatre Group.
 
About Khalia Davis: Khalia Davis (she/her) is a bicoastal multidisciplinary artist splitting her time between the San Francisco/Bay Area and New York. Directed and devised new works with prominent theaters such as Bay Area Children’s Theater, Atlantic Theater Company’s Atlantic for Kids, New York City Children’s Theater, Spellbound Theatre and more. Ms. Davis recently served as the Director of Inclusion and Education with Brooklyn Children’s Theatre restructuring their children’s musical theater programming through an anti-racism lens and currently teaches with New York City Children's Theater, the Atlantic Acting School, and for Disney Theatrical Group leading music and movement workshops and facilitating audience and community engagement. She is also an Artistic Associate for the nationally-known arts education organization The Story Pirates. As a performer, she has worked regionally and toured nationally on both coasts. Recently awarded the 2019 Emerging Leader Fellowship with TYA/USA and the NYCCT Leader Fellowship for 2019/2020. BA in Theater Arts from the University of Southern California. To learn more about Ms. Davis, check her out at www.khaliadavis.com.

About TYA/USA:Theatre for Young Audiences/USA (TYA/USA) is the leading national organization representing over 1,000 member theatres, organizations, and individual arts professionals across the United States committed to the professional field of theatre for children, young adults, and families. Recently, 1200 professionals from 46 states and 21 countries participated in the 2020 TYA/USA Virtual Festival & Conference. Dedicated to ensuring that all young people have access to high-quality theatre experiences, TYA/USA offers a variety of programming that connects professionals working in the sector through in-person gatherings and virtual sessions; provides opportunities for field-wide learning and leadership development; disseminates field news and research through a variety of print and online channels; and advances the field both internally and externally through a range of advocacy efforts. Founded in 1965, TYA/USA is the only theatre organization in the United States which has the development of professional theatre for young audiences and international exchange as its primary mandates. TYA/USA is the United States Center for the International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People (ASSITEJ). More information can be found at www.tyausa.org.  

About Broadway On Demand: Broadway On Demand is the premiere streaming service offering an extensive and wide-ranging library of video on demand content, exclusive livestream events, interactive platforms, and educational resources.  It is designed as a virtual performing arts complex offering not only Broadway shows and movie musicals but also, individual artists, concert series, performance venues, and theatres around the world. Additionally, using a unique licensing interface, approved middle school, high school, and college productions will have the opportunity to be streamed to a global audience.  Broadway On Demand fulfills Broadway’s long-held promise of being the ‘longest street in the world’.

A tip of the hat, a shake of the hand, appreciation, recognition, thanks; however you want to say it, sign it, or express it, SCT is here to say we are thankful for YOU. 

As we welcome July, we are taking a moment to look back at an extraordinary—though unprecedented—year and acknowledge that we could not be here without each and every person who has shared their support of SCT and theatre for young audiences. 

So, please join us in an epic exclamation of thanks…

You are the flame that keeps creativity alive and bright! It is because of your support that SCT was able to successfully bring our Summer Drama School programming online and...

• Serve 436 students in 14 states in the first month of virtual Summer Drama Classes. We cannot wait to see what July and August bring!
• Bring 18 teaching artists onto staff for the summer to lead classes like Sketch Comedy, Playwriting, Story Drama, and much more. 
• Continue our Summer Internship Program by welcoming 9 college students and recent graduates to assist us virtually as Teaching Artist and Arts Administration Interns. 
• Introduce a new slate of summer classes focused making space for underrepresented voices in the BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and sensory friendly communities.

We are constantly inspired by your resiliency and leadership. Because you recognize the importance of live theatre and theater education, SCT served over 34,000 students from 311 schools across the region through School Field Trips, Arts Based Learning, and Community Engagement in the past school year. Thanks to your support, our community’s youth experienced the transformational power of live theatre.  ​

Though our Mainstage season was cut short, we are thankful to have shared the beauty and artistry of Black Beauty, the thrill in experiencing Corduroy’s adventures, and the clever re-telling of Snow White. Thank you for celebrating the joy of live theatre by gathering and sharing the magic of SCT with your families and the young people in your lives. ​

You embody the values and mission of SCT. You are the drama school families, ticket buyers, educators, board members, alumni, and community advocates who represent the many reasons why SCT will make it through this time to continue bringing theatre and theatre education to young audiences.

• Since March, 1,499 tickets were donated back to the theater
• SCT has had 1,429 first time donors (and counting!) 

Your direct support reaches far beyond SCT and into the communities we serve, sustaining Seattle’s vibrant arts and culture community for generations to come. You are the change makers, and we thank you.

As part of its expansive list of virtual Drama School offerings for summer 2020, Seattle Children’s Theatre is pleased to introduce a new slate of classes geared towards social justice and creating space for underrepresented voices. Due to the evolving status of COVID-19 related restrictions in Washington State and across the country, SCT is hosting Summer Drama School classes in an exclusively virtual setting and is using this position as an opportunity to reach, elevate, and champion new voices.
 
“SCT continues to examine our internal practices toward becoming an anti-racist organization and better serve our youth. We have a long way to go, but in this necessary time we hear our community and vow to continue serving by doing our part,” says Johamy Morales, SCT’s Director of Education. “As a leader in the arts community it is our responsibility to uphold the voices and stories that continue to be underrepresented in our field, and to champion more equitable access to programming, on our stages, behind the curtain, in our classrooms, and as we engage and work in service to our community.”
 
Among the new slate of classes is ‘The Art of Drag’, a one week class designed for LGBTQ+ youth and their allies which will explore the cultural and historical significance of Drag Performance while teaching students how to create their own drag persona. Taught by local Seattle Drag Queen, Isis, and Drag King, Dan D'Lite, this class aims to create a comfortable space for LGBTQ+ youth to grow and create.
 
Also included is Rise Up: Triple Threat, Rise Up: Short Plays & Stand Up: Playwrights for Change, a series of classes designed for students who identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color where they can explore and create works written for them and aimed to ignite the power of social change through different areas of drama. Through the playwriting course, students will learn the fundamentals of storytelling based on their own experience. A variety of Triple Threat courses will celebrate musicals like The Wiz, In the Heights, and Allegiance written specifically for communities of color and will be instructed by BIPOC teaching artists.
 
Finally, a variety of Sensory Drama classes are being offered and are designed for students with disabilities, particularly those with sensory processing challenges, to explore drama with accommodations that meet their needs. Visual schedules, captioning, ASL, and accommodating motor movement will be used as the foundation for these classes and led by Teaching Artist and SCT’s Sensory Drama Specialist, Maddie Napel.
 
To make all offerings as accessible as possible, financial assistance is being offered to those who meet federal guidelines through the simple process of a one-time application. SCT will evaluate these applications on a case by case basis depending on the needs of the family with the goal of being as accommodating as possible. Payment plans will also be made available for those who may need it.
 
“It is our goal to embrace the opportunities provided by these unprecedented challenges to better connect with families and the world,” said Morales, adding that 24 students have registered for June classes who live outside of Washington State.  “Because classes are being held online, we can reach students from new communities and invite them to learn through our expansive curriculum, including our new and diverse offerings which allow educational space for underrepresented voices.”
 

SCT’s virtual summer classes are available for students 3.5-18 years old. To learn more about SCT’s summer programming, including July and August registration dates, please visit our website. For updates on SCT’s evolving position on COVID-19 and how it is affecting the theatre and it’s programming, please visit our blog.

Juneteenth Resources:

• Honoring and Celebrating Juneteenth from New Victory Arts Break - Our friends at the New Victory Theatre have put together a wonderful series to engage the whole family in honoring and celebrating Juneteeth thorough art, drama, poetry, and community. 
• 6 Museums Join Forces to Commemorate 155th Anniversary of Juneteenth Join NAAM and 5 other Black museums from across the country to commemorate the 155th anniversary of Juneteenth. 
• Celebrating Juneteenth From the National Museum of African American History & Culture - Want to know more about Juneteenth? Learn from Lonnie Bunch III, Founding Director of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, as he leads a tour through our Slavery and Freedom exhibition to celebrate #Juneteenth
  
• ​Observing Juneteenth in 2020 from PBS - Parents, guardians and educators check out this resource if you want to learn more about the historical context for today’s conversions around racism, freedom and the long shadow of slavery. There is even a video geared towards children as a part of this resource. 
  
• 10 Children's Books Celebrating Juneteenth 
• Kids' Books to Celebrate Juneteenth

From the SCT Community:

• New Poem: How Reflection Works by Idris Goodwin (Playwright of SCT's 2018 production of And In This Corner: Cassius Clay)
• AOC(S) Podcast by Dedra Woods, (Mother in SCT's 2019 production of Corduroy and Rose in 2018's The Little Prince)​
• Timeout w/Brodrick by Brodrick Ryans (SCT Education staff member and teaching artist)

Book Lists with Books for Youth of All Ages:

• 26 Children's Books to Support Conversations on Race, Racism and Resistance from EmbraceRace.org
• Black Art History: 10 Children’s Books Illuminate the Lives of Important African American Artists and Photographers from Culture Type 
• Coretta Scott King Book Award Winners from Common Sense Media
• Children’s Books By Brilliant Black Women: #OwnVoices Authors & Illustrators from Books for Littles 

Resources made for Young People:

• CNN and 'Sesame Street' to host a town hall addressing racism Live at 7 am PST on Saturday 6/6/20
• Kojo For Kids: Jason Reynolds Talks About Racism And The Protests

Podcasts for Parents and Guardians:

• Talking Race With Young Children: a podcast from Sesame Workshop and NPR 

Resources and Articles For Parents and Guardians:

• Talking About Race from The National Museum of African American History and Culture 
• Social Justice Resources from the Children's Community School
• For Parents of Black Children: Black Pain, Black Joy, and Racist Fear: Supporting Black Children in a Hostile World from Psychology Benefits Society
• Talking With Children About Racism, Police Brutality and Protests from Aha Parenting 
• Raising Race-Conscious Children from A Cup of Jo
• Being Black Is Not a Risk Factor from the National Black Child Development Institute  ​
• Anti-Racism For Kids 101: Starting To Talk About Race from Books for Littles 
• How to Talk to Kids about Race and Racism from Parent Toolkit
• Your Kids Aren't Too Young to Talk About Race: Resource Roundup from Pretty Good Design

For Educators:

• Teaching for Black Lives: A New Book from Rethinking Schools from Teaching for Black Lives
• Lesson Plan About the Death of George Floyd from PBS NewsHour Extra for Grades 6-12 including a news video & discussion questions about the protests & police brutality
• RACE & ETHNICITY from Teaching Tolerance 

Artists and Arts Organizations:

• Black Theatre Network
• Black Theatre Matters 
• ARRAY: Artists Activists Audiences Aligned ​
• Women of Color in the Arts

Activity 31:  The Picker-Up/Chaos Machine Game for the Whole Family from The Cat in the Hat

Sheltering in place can create quite a mess! Take your cue from the Cat in the Hat and work together as a family to use your voices, bodies and imaginations to create a “machine” to help clean up! This activity can be done either inside or out, and will have your family laughing together in no time. 
 
Bonus points if you can translate this fun activity into actual cleaning! 
 
We want to see your family’s finished machines! Take a picture of your machine and comment below or tag us with #sctathome to be a part of the conversation. 

Activity 6: Word Find from Where The Wild Things Are. 
 
This weekend is about to get wild! Join Max from Where The Wild Things Are in finding the emotions in the word search. Are you excited, brave, playful, sad? You’ll just have to search and find out!
 
Movement Bonus - Take a cue from social emotional learning and have your student use their body to show what each emotion feels like! 

We want to see you showing those emotions! Comment your responses below or tag us with #sctathome to be a part of the conversation. 

Dear SCT Community,
 
I am sure you have seen the new recommendations from Governor Inslee, released earlier today, aimed at reducing the spread of the coronavirus. As a result, SCT is joining the many other cultural organizations throughout our region and closing our doors. Effective immediately we will suspend the remainder of our season and all educational programming planned through Spring of 2020, with the aim of reopening June 2020 in preparation for summer educational activities.
 
At SCT, we put young people at the center of every decision we make, their health and safety, along with that of our staff and artists, is our top priority.
 
These are extraordinary times, but theatre is the very act of coming together in community, in real time, for shared experience. As we come through this global pandemic, and it is once again safe to gather in community, we look forward to sharing stories of joy and resiliency with audiences of all ages.
 
All ticket holders for the remainder of our 19-20 season as well as all Drama School families affected by this change will be contacted in the coming days with more information. We thank you for your patience and support as we continue to navigate this unprecedented situation for the good of our community.
 
Sincerely,
 
Kevin Malgesini
Managing Director

March 13, 2020 7:12 p.m.

As a result of recommendations issued this morning by Governor Inslee, SCT is joining the many other cultural organizations throughout our region and closing our doors. Effective immediately we will suspend the remainder of our season and all educational programming planned through Spring of 2020, with the aim of reopening June 2020 in preparation for summer educational activities.
 
At SCT we put young people at the center of every decision we make, their health and safety, along with that of our staff and artists, is our top priority.
 
These are extraordinary times, but theatre is the very act of coming together in community, in real time, for shared experience. As we come through this global pandemic, and it is once again safe to gather in community, we look forward to sharing stories of joy and resiliency with audiences of all ages.

Read More Here

March 12, 2020 7:36 p.m.

Seattle Children’s Theatre has been notified that an SCT Drama School student has tested positive for COVID-19. The student is currently in self-isolation at home with their family and recovering well.
 
This student was in class on SCT’s Seattle Center campus on Saturday, March 7. We have notified all students, faculty and staff who have since been in the building. Adhering to SCT’s increased sanitization efforts, all Drama School classrooms and public areas were thoroughly cleaned and disinfected in between class sessions, as was the case on Saturday, March 7.
 
Upon learning of this positive case, SCT closed immediately and the facility remains closed through Sunday, March 15 for deep cleaning. Any programming scheduled during that time has been cancelled or postponed and all appropriate parties have been notified. Decisions regarding any programming scheduled to take place after March 15 will be made in the near future. 

• For more information about COVID-19, please see the CDC’s official recommendations. The most important thing we can do to limit the spread of illness is to:
• Stay home when you are sick and avoid close contact with others.
• Wash hands often with soap and water for a least 20 seconds. If water is not available, use hand sanitizer, with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Cover your mouth/nose with a tissue or sleeve when coughing or sneezing. Immediately throw the tissue in the garbage.

If you feel you or someone in your household may have been exposed to the novel coronavirus, please contact your healthcare provider. If you have any questions please contact us at SCTinfo@sct.org or refer to our FAQ page. For updates on SCT’s evolving position on COVID-19, please visit our blog.


March 11, 2020 6:56 p.m.

Due to the continued spread of COVID-19, SCT is closing our facilities through Sunday, March 15. Any programming scheduled during that time will be cancelled or postponed. If you are a ticket holder and this impacts your upcoming performance, the ticket office will reach out to you directly. Decisions regarding any programming scheduled to take place after March 15 will be made in the near future. 

SCT relies on the generosity of you, our patrons and friends. We thank you for your patience, understanding and continued support during these extraordinary times.

March 11, 2020 10:25 a.m.

The health and safety of SCT staff, guest artists, volunteers and patrons remains our top priority. In response to the new mandates for social distancing announced by Governor Inslee earlier this morning, SCT will be taking the following actions.

Effective immediately we will close our production of Snow White, scheduled to run through March 15th. If you are a ticket holder and this impacts your upcoming performance, we will reach out to you directly in the coming days. We will be inviting you to turn your ticket purchase into a donation to help the theatre weather this challenging time, or to help you rebook into an upcoming production. We are evaluating contingency plans for Best Summer Ever! and Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus: The Musical!, additional communication regarding these productions will be coming in the near future.

At this time local officials are not suggesting we close Drama School, so we will continue providing this vital community resource as long as we are able to safely do so. We continue to ask that families make the best decisions for themselves and their households. If you are feeling unwell or are uncomfortable attending any SCT class or function, please reach out to the most relevant contact and we will make accommodations. Additionally, our Arts Based Learning and Community Engagement programming will continue as long as we are able to safely and effectively do so.

SCT has been a home for audiences of all ages for decades, a home for laughter, joy and a deep exploration of our community’s stories, something we are proud of now more than ever. Thank you for your continued support of SCT and other local arts organizations as we navigate these challenging times.

We will continue to update appropriate parties regarding changes to events or programming as developments are made available. For updates on SCT’s evolving response to COVID-19, please revisit this page.


March 4, 2020 6:52 p.m.
​
Earlier today, the city of Seattle held a news conference to share the latest news on COVID-19. A panel of local and state officials and health experts were on hand. With a team of 17 officials from the Center for Disease Control, recently arrived here in Seattle, there is a concerted effort to mitigate and manage the virus. Prep's response to COVID-19 has been based upon the advice of local public health agencies, a practice that will continue in the days and weeks ahead. No one knows what those days and weeks will bring, so we are prepared to adapt as circumstances change. Be reassured that we are working with schools and families on a daily basis, to adhere to official health guidelines.
 
We are currently remaining open and all regular business operations are proceeding. Per the current advice of King County Health officials, we will most likely remain open unless a member of the SCT community, or an adjacent community, tests positive for COVID-19. We will continue following the lead of our partner schools in terms of individual performance cancellations.  Communication about such closures would run through the same method that snow delays/cancellations are communicated.
 
Again, per the current advice of King County Health officials, we would most likely close all or a portion of operations in the event of a confirmed COVID-19 case within our community or an SCT adjacent community. The specifics of that case would determine the extent and length of any closure.
 
We will continue to inform you of any updates or changes as it pertains to the virus. We ask for patience from the SCT community in the days and possibly weeks ahead. We will continue to rely upon the advice of health experts when making decisions.
 

March 4, 2020 12:15 p.m.

SCT Community,
 
The safety and health of SCT staff, guest artists, volunteers and patrons are of our top priority. We have been observing the COVID-19 outbreak in Washington State, and closely following the recommendations from Washington State and King County Health officials, and the CDC. We will continue taking our lead from them, and provide updates as things progress.
 
On Saturday, February 29, Governor Inslee issued an emergency proclamation, which simply allows our state to obtain more resources to assist affected communities in responding to and recovering from COVID-19 cases. King County Executive Constantine made a similar declaration on Monday, March 2. This declaration activates departmental resources to prepare for and respond to the outbreak, but neither mean city or county officials believe businesses or schools should close, or that individuals should stay home. 

To that end, we are continuing with our normal operations and we will continue to monitor the situation closely and update you as guidelines from the CDC and Seattle & King County Health Officials are updated.   We are implementing additional sanitization measures across the building—particularly in high-traffic areas and restrooms to disinfect individual workstations and public spaces. It is important that SCT patrons feel comfortable engaging with our theatre and educational programs, and want to offer peace of mind when considering your upcoming engagement. If you are feeling unwell or are uncomfortable attending an SCT event, please reach out to the most relevant contact below and we will make accommodations: 

For Single Tickets and Subscriptions: tickets@sct.org
For School Shows and Field Trips: Darioush Mansourzadeh at schoolshows@sct.org
For Drama School: dramaschool@sct.org
For Community Engagement (Workshops, Residencies): Tiffany Maltos at educationoutreach@sct.org
For Tours and Workshops for Above Between Below: Liz Coen at elizabethc@sct.org

While testing in Washington State ramps up we are likely to see an increase in cases that were not previously detected. This should not be cause for panic. Currently there are no known cases within the SCT community or within any communities we serve. In the event that a case of COVID-19 is found at Seattle Children’s Theatre or in a community space that we serve, we will follow the direction from public health officials and alert our patrons and staff immediately of the actions we are taking.  
 
In the meantime, please adhere to the following recommendations from the CDC to keep SCT and yourself healthy:

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.
• Stay home of you are sick with a temperature above 100degrees.
• Prevent the spread of misinformation by learning more about the CDC’s updated recommendations here.

​Thank you and we will continue to update this page as more information becomes available.

Dear SCT Community,

Over the last week, we have shared a number of messages with our community about the steps we are taking in the midst of the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) outbreak, and how it affects our patron’s experience. If you have attended a production of Snow White, are an active Drama School family, or are hosting one of our Arts Based Learning touring productions, much of this message revisits updates shared on our blog. As we learn more every day, it is important that the broader community understands our efforts to keep our patrons and families safe.

This is a rapidly evolving situation. We are staying in close communication with King County public health authorities and CDC, and will follow their directions. Unless otherwise directed by these officials, as of March 9 we remain open, and all performances and activities will continue as scheduled. This includes the final performances of Snow White, the upcoming opening of The Best Summer Ever!, and Drama School camps and classes.
 
Here’s how we are making our patron’s experience safer:

• Making individual decisions on performances and school visits based on our partners and information from public health officials.
  
• Implemented hand-sanitizing stations throughout our building and increased theatre sanitization before and after each performance.
  
• Asking those who are unwell or are high risk to stay home, and we’re waiving fees for patrons to rebook into another performance this or next season. The CDC recommends that vulnerable populations include people 60 and older, people with underlying health conditions including heart disease, lung disease or diabetes, people who have weakened immune systems, and people who are pregnant.
• Respectfully asking those who have been to or through CDC identified level III countries—who have not undergone the 14-day quarantine period—to not engage our theatre at this time.  

 
COVID-19 is already proving to have a significant impact on the arts sector. Like many, SCT provides a space for hope, inspiration, and courage to take root, and we need you to help strengthen our efforts during this difficult time.

How can you help? Our friends at Arts Fund suggest one of these ways:

• Stay informed. If you have plans to attend an arts and cultural activity, check that organization’s social media and website for updates and communications. If you are at greater risk of illness or feel uncomfortable attending events, please stay home. The latest updates from King County Public Health can be found here.
  
• If you choose to stay home from arts and cultural events that you previously purchased tickets for, consider donating your unused ticket back to the organization. Transferring your ticket purchase to a donation supports arts organizations' futures in an uncertain time.
  
• Share a message of support on social media.

When one arts organization succeeds, we all do. Simply, we are better together. If maintaining Seattle’s robust cultural landscape is important to you, I urge you to consider the significant impact you can have by identifying one or two of your top arts and cultural organizations and making a gift—perhaps in the amount of what you would have spent on a ticket to see a show.

I thank you for your continued patience and support as we listen to our public health officials and educational partners, and determine the best way to continue serving young people during this time. For updates on SCT’s evolving position on COVID-19, please visit our blog.

Sincerely,

Kevin Malgesini
Managing Director
 

Can you talk about the idea for The Best Summer Ever? How did it arrive?

My grandparents. My grandfather is my hero. He was strong and kind and he laughed a lot. He was also a farmer so I always wanted to be a farmer. In some ways I am a farmer but instead of soy beans and corn I grow stories. They start with a seed, an idea, and with care, and a bit of luck, they grow. At some point they say "Ok, I'm ready for the market."
​
When you sit down and make a new play or story, do you know what you are capable of?

This is a great question. I will sit down and write a story, and then memorize it. The first time I tell it, with the help of the audience, the story will say "this is what I'm really about." That's when I have to listen, listen to my own story. Then I'll rewrite it, maybe add or take away characters, expand sections where people need more explanation, always trying to find the very best version, the most truthful and entertaining way to tell it. I have to tell a story many times before I'm happy with the way it sounds.

What's the most important reminder when storytelling gets difficult?

I want storytellers to know that audience is really on your side, they want to have a good time, go on an adventure, laugh, be frightened, and safe. We all want a story to be good.

Did you write as a child? If so, what did you write about? What captured your attention or spirit?

Yes, I wrote a bit but most of all I heard stories. I still would rather hear a story than tell one. There is nothing like laughing with my friends or being moved by another person's experience, or learning a new way to look at something.

What do you hope audiences bring to the play?

As always, I hope my stories make you think of your own life. When did you do something you weren't supposed to do, go somewhere forbidden, or found a new friend in unexpected places. Bring your own life!


The Best Summer Ever! will play in the Eve Alvord Theater from March 19 through April 26, 2020 and is recommended for patrons aged eight and older.Tickets start at $20 and can be purchased online or by calling the Ticket Office at 206.441.3322.

Seattle, Wash.--Seattle Children’s Theatre has announced the appointment of Kathryn Van Meter as interim Artistic Director effective February 24, 2020. Van Meter’s appointment comes shortly after the Theatre announced that Courtney Sale, Artistic Director, will be leaving to assume the Nancy L. Donahue Artistic Director position at The Merrimack Repertory Theatre (MRT) in Lowell, MA.

“As artistic caretaker of SCT, I look forward to shepherding the remainder of this season and the launch of the 2020-2021 season,” said Van Meter. “Building from the colossal legacy of Linda Hartzell and the exceptional achievements of Courtney Sale, it is my tremendous privilege to take up the torch and keep its flame burning bright during this exciting time of transition at SCT.” 

Van Meter, a Seattle artist and resident for 20 years, has served as a Director, Choreographer and Actor at many local venues including 5th Avenue Theatre, Seattle Shakes, Seattle Opera, ACT, and Village Theatre where she received Gregory Awards for Outstanding Choreographer and People’s Choice for Outstanding Director for the 2019 production of Matilda. Additionally, her work at Seattle Repertory Theatre includes choreographing their 2019 production of As You Like It, part of their public works program.

“On behalf of SCT’s Board of Trustees and staff, we are delighted to welcome Kathryn as part of our team. Her work has had a tremendous impact on the Seattle community and we are excited to have her join as our Artistic Leader during this time,” said Kevin Malgesini, SCT’s Managing Director. “Her Seattle roots, experience as an artist and educator, and dedication to community building will ensure our ability to stay true to our mission, celebrating young people in every decision we make.”

Van Meter’s relationship with SCT stretches back to 2004 where she began as a choreographer for Bunnicula, then later Junie B. Jones, High School Musical, Blue Nose, Neverending Story and Mo Willems Elephant and Piggi’s: We are in a Play!. The 2019-2020 season saw Van Meter’s direction of Corduroy, and her leadership continues as the Director of Above Between Below, part of SCT’s touring Arts Based Learning program, done in partnership with Kaiser Permanente. This summer, Kathryn continues her support of pre-professional theatre education by directing Come From Away, part of The Performance Lab Series.
 
“SCT has been a bastion of light for children and their families for generations. There is limitless capacity for joy, wonder and imagination inside the walls of this building. No matter what age you are, when you step inside SCT, you have permission to return to your younger self and in that space, a softening occurs,” said Van Meter. “I am an artist because I believe in the power of that space. I believe in the transformation that occurs when we witness in diverse community. The staff of SCT, these dedicated artists and artisans, administrators and teachers, work tirelessly to share their beautiful hearts and brilliant minds to make that magic possible.”  

To learn more about SCT’s educational programs and mainstage season, visit us online at sct.org. 

(Seattle, Wash.) — Seattle Children’s Theatre has been approved for a $20,000 Art Works grant to support its upcoming production The Best Summer Ever! which follows the adventures of nine-year-old Maurice Abernathy Anderson during his final summer before things get complicated.  Written and performed by nationally acclaimed storyteller Kevin Kling and directed by Steven Dietz, the production is on the Eve Alvord stage March 19 through April 19, 2020.

In a world where anxiety grows in velocities for young people The Best Summer Ever! offers a counter narrative as it stirs the imagination and intellect of audiences, inviting them to hold on to the joy of youth while accepting the reality of growing up.
 
“We are honored that the Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts has approved SCT for this grant to support bringing this powerful work by Kevin Kling to our stages,” said Kevin Malgesini, SCT Managing Director.
 
In this production, Kling gently and humanely walks us through the joy, challenge, and reverberations of childhood. To further support audiences in this journey, SCT offers post-show discussions and complementary resources that encourage teachers and families to bring the themes of the play into their children’s lives to expand their learning and richness of the theatre experience.

Overall, the National Endowment for the Arts has approved 1,187 grants totaling $27.3 million in the first round of fiscal year 2020 funding to support arts projects in every state in the nation, as well as the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.  

The Art Works funding category supports projects that focus on public engagement with, and access to, various forms of excellent art across the nation; the creation of art that meets the highest standards of excellence; learning in the arts at all stages of life; and the integration of the arts into the fabric of community life.

“The arts are at the heart of our communities, connecting people through shared experiences and artistic expression,” said Arts Endowment chairman Mary Anne Carter. “The National Endowment for the Arts is proud to support projects like Seattle Children’s Theatre.”

Tickets for The Best Summer Ever! start at $20 and can be purchased online or by calling the Ticket Office at 206.441.3322. The Best Summer Ever! will play in the Eve Alvord Theater from March 19 through April 19, 2020 and is recommended for patrons aged eight and older.

For more information on projects included in the Arts Endowment grant announcement, visit arts.gov/news.