Dallas Children's Theater Blog

Astonishing Kids And Families With The Fun of Broadway-Like Plays and A Lot More!

Meet the Cast of THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE

Join us in the wardrobe for a magical adventure…

MONALISA AMIDAR**

Mrs. Beaver

Monalisa Amidar is grateful to be back with DCT. Her previous DCT work includes Last Stop On Market Street. She recently performed in shows with Elf on the Shelf Magical Holiday Journey, IMPRINT Theatreworks, and Shakespeare Dallas. Monalisa holds a B.A. in Theater from Pepperdine University and an M.A. in Arts & Humanities from UT Dallas. She is represented by the Kim Dawson Agency. Monalisa dedicates this show to Phillip and their pets, Chum, Rock and Mr. Turts

 

MICAH JL BROOKS

Fenris Ulf, a wolf / The White Stag / Understudy

Micah JL Brooks is excited to make his long awaited DCT debut with this special show. His selected credits include Bright Star (Jimmy Ray Dobbs), Puffs (Cedric), Jack Frost (Boreas/ Father Winter), West Side Story (Action), and Oklahoma! (Jud Fry). A huge thanks goes to DCT and everyone who is helping create safe live theater right now.

 

DOUGLASS BURKS*

The Professor / Father Christmas

A veteran of Dallas area theater, Mr. Burks has worked with Dallas Children’s Theater for many years as an Equity actor, stage manager, sound designer, and director. He is a founding member of the nationally acclaimed Kathy Burks Theatre of Puppetry Arts and has earned the distinction of Master Puppeteer. A popular actor with DCT audiences, Doug will be remembered for his many roles on the DCT stage, which include The Giver (The Giver), Goodnight Moon (Larry the Tooth Fairy), James and the Giant Peach (Old Grasshopper), Peter Pan (Captain Hook), Young King Arthur (Merlin), The Emperor’s New Clothes (the Emperor), The Mummy’s Claw (Sir Nevil Blore), Jungalbook (Baloo), Holes (Mr. Sir), and Treasure Island (Long John Silver). He also portrayed the title characters in Frankenstein, The Reluctant Dragon, The Canterville Ghost, and the 2001 production of The BFG (Big Friendly Giant). Mr. Burks was a member of the first graduating class of Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Dallas, Texas.

 

QUINTIN JONES, JR.*

Aslan, The Lion

Quintin (he/him) is so excited to be participating in his first production with DCT. He is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association. BLM

 

 

 

THI LE*

Lucy

Thi Le is delighted to be returning to Dallas Children’s Theater for The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe! Her previous work includes productions with Dallas Children’s Theater, Brick Road Theatre, The Firehouse Theatre, Uptown Players, and WaterTower Theatre. Thi loves creating art and having the opportunity to tell someone else’s stories, and she strives to inspire others to do the same. Follow her on social media: @littleteacup37

 

RUDY LOPEZ

Mr. Beaver

Rudy Lopez is very excited to be making his debut with Dallas Children’s Theater. Previous roles include Little Shop of Horrors (Mr. Mushnik); Bless Me, Ultima (Narciso); and Anna In The Tropics (Cheché). He would like to give the biggest thanks to his friends and family, mom, dad, and sister for always supporting him in his career.

 

ANIA LYONS*

Susan

Ania Lyons is so happy to return to the DCT stage after Dragons Love Tacos (Blue Dragon)! She returned to LIVE THEATRE in Dallas Theater Center’s A Christmas Carol (Female Swing) and Theatre Three’s touring production of The Music Man (Zaneeta Shinn). Ania has also worked onstage and backstage with other DFW theaters such as Prism Movement Theatre, Uptown Players, Casa Mañana, Lyric Stage, and more. Follow her adventures @Lyons.dance543

 

JOHNNY LEE MOSS

The Dwarf

Johnny is honored to be back at DCT in his 2nd production of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe playing The Dwarf again after being in the 2010 production. His other DCT credits include The Curse of Castle Mongrew; Young King Arthur; and Junie B. in Jingle Bells, Batman Smells! Thanks to Artie for the chance to journey to Narnia again and love to Mom always

 

ETHAN RODRIGUEZ-MULLINS**

Mr. Tumnus, a faun

Ethan is absolutely thrilled to be back at Dallas Children’s Theater after appearing in Dragons Love Tacos (The Boy) earlier this year. He was also seen at DCT in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (LeFou) and the national tour of Diary of a Worm, a Spider & a Fly (Spider). He has music directed Godspell at CORP, Addams Family at NTPA, and Park-A-Palooza ll at Collin College. Favorite roles include: Grease (Doody) and Gypsy (Yonkers) at The Firehouse Theatre; Hello, Dolly! (Barnaby) at Garland Summer Musicals; The Yellow Boat (Benjamin) at Resolute Theatre Project; and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (Chip) at Collin Theatre Center. He would love to thank his friends and family for their love, support, patience, and strength.

 

JO-JO STEINE*

Jadis, The White Witch

Jo-Jo Steine has been waiting for years to make her DCT debut and is over the moon to be here! Her past shows include A Christmas Carol (Belle, Charitable Woman, Sister) at Dallas Theater Center, Harvey (Nurse Kelly) at WaterTower Theatre, Reykjavik (Naomi/Valerie) at Kitchen Dog Theater, and Once (Reza) at Theatre Three. Thanks Mom, Dad, and Aaron!

 

LEO THOMASIAN*

Peter

Leo is thrilled to make his Dallas Children’s Theater debut! Credits include Spring Awakening (Melchior) at Serenbe Playhouse, Nobody Loves You (Evan/Dominic) at Horizon Theatre, Little Women (Laurie) at Contemporary Theatre of Dallas, and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical (Rudolph) at Wishing Star Productions. Leo’s band, Last Minute Alive, has made their music available across all major digital music platforms. leothomasian.com / @lastminuteleo

 

AARON VERRILL

Edmund

Aaron is very thankful to be making his DCT (and Texas) debut! He would like to thank his friends and family for their unwavering support and hopes you enjoy the show!

 

 

GENA LOE
Understudy: Ensemble Swing

Gena is excited to return to DCT! Her previous work on the DCT stage includes Dragons Love Tacos (Yellow Dragon), Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (Babette), The Island of the Skog (Hannah), and Ella Enchanted: The Musical (Olive). She has also performed locally with in Disaster! at Uptown Players and Sister Act at MainStage Irving-Las Colinas. She would like to thank her family and friends for encouraging her to continue dancing her heart out.


THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE
Adapted by Joseph Robinette
Based on the book by C.S. Lewis
Directed by Artie Olaisen

April 3 – May 15, 2022
Ages 7 and up

One of the most celebrated books in children’s literature and the #1 most requested DCT play returns to the stage to create a remarkable world of magic. Join young adventurers Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy as they step through the not so ordinary wardrobe and into the mythical land of C.S. Lewis’ Narnia. Facing fantastic creatures and fierce battles in the heart and on the land, the four siblings must find the courage to battle the treacherous White Witch in order to end the deadly eternal winter in the beautiful forest. Guided by the all-knowing Lion, Aslan, these discoverers learn to cast aside their own fears to find the heroes within themselves.

Sunday, April 3, 1:30PM
Sunday, April 3, 4:30PM
Saturday, April 9, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 9, 4:30PM
Sunday, April 10, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 16, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 23, 1:30PM
Sunday, April 24, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 30, 1:30PM
Sunday, May 1, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 7, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 7, 4:30PM
Sunday, May 8, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 14, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 14, 4:30PM
Sunday, May 15, 1:30PM
Sunday, May 15, 4:30PM

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe photo by Karen Almond

All other photos courtesy of the actors

*Indicates member of Actors’ Equity Association
**Indicates AEA membership candidate

Meet the children of the LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE

Four humans and a prophecy…

In Narnia, humans are extremely rare—so rare, the word “human” is seldom used. Instead boys are called Sons of Adam and girls are Daughters of Eve. This is important, as the only way to end Narnia’s eternal winter is to follow the ancient prophecy and have “two Sons of Adam and two Daughters of Eve” sit on the four thrones of Cair Paravel…

Still following? If not, don’t worry. The four Pevensie children are going to struggle a little, too – as anyone does when entering an unfamiliar land. Let’s get to know them!


Lucy Pevensie – the youngest
Lucy Pevensie is the youngest of four siblings, and the first to discover Narnia through the wardrobe and make a fast friend. The play begins with Lucy’s second trip to Narnia, as her siblings didn’t believe the stories from her first. She’s determined to show them Narnia is as real as she is—and a whole lot of fun.


Edmund Pevensie – the second youngest
Edmund is skeptical and rebellious, teasing Lucy the most out of all the siblings. He causes trouble sometimes, but he has a good heart underneath it all. He is the second sibling to enter Narnia, but he is not as lucky as Lucy. His love of the candy Turkish Delight makes it easy for the villains to trick him—will he find his way, or be lost forever?


Susan Pevensie – the second oldest
Susan is the second oldest, and like Peter, takes on a lot of responsibilities. She can be a little strict with her siblings, but only out of love. She does not believe in Narnia until she sees it, but once she does, she’s just as excited as Lucy—although she tries to be a little more cautious.


Peter Pevensie – the oldest
Peter is the oldest sibling, and very aware of it. A natural leader, he tries his best to do the right thing. In Narnia, he is determined to step up and defend his siblings against whatever foes they may face—including the dangerous Fenris Ulf.


Because of actor proximity to audience members in this production, our actor’s union is still requiring that all audience members be masked.

Review DCT’s Health and Safety Policies and Procedures


Join the Sons of Adam and the Daughters of Eve on this unforgettable adventure…
Buy tickets now before they sell out!

THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE
Adapted by Joseph Robinette
Based on the book by C.S. Lewis
Directed by Artie Olaisen

April 3 – May 15, 2022
Ages 7 and up

One of the most celebrated books in children’s literature and the #1 most requested DCT play returns to the stage to create a remarkable world of magic. Join young adventurers Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy as they step through the not so ordinary wardrobe and into the mythical land of C.S. Lewis’ Narnia. Facing fantastic creatures and fierce battles in the heart and on the land, the four siblings must find the courage to battle the treacherous White Witch in order to end the deadly eternal winter in the beautiful forest. Guided by the all-knowing Lion, Aslan, these discoverers learn to cast aside their own fears to find the heroes within themselves.

Get your tickets as soon as you can; we’re known to fill up fast…

Sunday, April 3, 1:30PM
Sunday, April 3, 4:30PM
Saturday, April 9, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 9, 4:30PM
Sunday, April 10, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 16, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 23, 1:30PM
Sunday, April 24, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 30, 1:30PM
Sunday, May 1, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 7, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 7, 4:30PM
Sunday, May 8, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 14, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 14, 4:30PM
Sunday, May 15, 1:30PM
Sunday, May 15, 4:30PM

Photos by: Karen Almond

5 Facts about THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE

Fascinating Facts about the C.S. Lewis classic…

Animal Land, if you were to ask a young C.S. Lewis about it, was filled with talking animals and located on the shores of India. He came up with the idea with his brother when they were children. His brother was mostly interested in India, while young C.S. Lewis cared about the animals.

When C.S. Lewis was 16, he found himself thinking about this image, and wanting to write about it. He didn’t know what story to tell, but he apparently knew he would tell it someday. Thirty-five years later, he would!

Numerous rewrites and edits made the writing process for The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe difficult for C.S. Lewis. He apparently did not have a story in mind when he started out, and the original drafts were very different.

Lucy Barfield, C.S. Lewis’s goddaughter, was the intended first recipient of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. In the book’s dedication, Lewis jokes that at the time of writing he did not know that “girls grow quicker than books” – referencing the fact that he wrote the book for a four-year old Lucy, who was now fourteen.

Each book in the Chronicles of Narnia series stands alone, because C.S. Lewis did not know he was going to write them. Each book reads differently and although they all center around Narnia, many of them have fully new casts of characters.


At this time, masks are still required by our actor’s union for safety reasons.
Review DCT’s Health and Safety Policies and Procedures


THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE
Adapted by Joseph Robinette
Based on the book by C.S. Lewis
Directed by Artie Olaisen

April 3 – May 15, 2022
Ages 7 and up

One of the most celebrated books in children’s literature and the #1 most requested DCT play returns to the stage to create a remarkable world of magic. Join young adventurers Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy as they step through the not so ordinary wardrobe and into the mythical land of C.S. Lewis’ Narnia. Facing fantastic creatures and fierce battles in the heart and on the land, the four siblings must find the courage to battle the treacherous White Witch in order to end the deadly eternal winter in the beautiful forest. Guided by the all-knowing Lion, Aslan, these discoverers learn to cast aside their own fears to find the heroes within themselves.

Get your tickets as soon as you can; we’re known to fill up fast…

Sunday, April 3, 1:30PM
Sunday, April 3, 4:30PM
Saturday, April 9, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 9, 4:30PM
Sunday, April 10, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 16, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 23, 1:30PM
Sunday, April 24, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 30, 1:30PM
Sunday, May 1, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 7, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 7, 4:30PM
Sunday, May 8, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 14, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 14, 4:30PM
Sunday, May 15, 1:30PM
Sunday, May 15, 4:30PM

 

Frequently asked questions about DCT’s newest show…

Whether you’re familiar with THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE and need a refresher, or are a beginner to all things Narnian – DCT has you covered.

How long is the show?
This particular play is about 1 hour and 15 minutes plus an intermission.

Why are you recommending an age of 7-and-up for this show? Can I bring my younger child?
We consider a number of factors when making our age recommendation: what grade the book is read in school, as well as what age the book is suggested for in the marketplace. We look at vocabulary, topics, and themes, as well as play length, and the likelihood of children to sit through it without being a distraction or disruptive to the rest of the audience.

Ultimately, however, these are recommendations. You know your child best, and if you believe your child would like the show and could be attentive with our other patrons, bring them!

What is Narnia?
Narnia is a fictional place created by C.S. Lewis, and featured in the book series, The Chronicles of Narnia. Talking beavers, fauns, witches and wolves are but some of the residents of this land.

During THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE, Narnia is stuck in an eternal winter – but some young and unexpected heroes are about to change that.

How do I get to Narnia?
Well, you could do what Lucy does in THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE and walk through the family wardrobe right into the magical land.

Who is Aslan?
Aslan is a powerful lion and the King of all Kings in Narnia.

Can you tell me some of the scarier things that happen in the show so we can be prepared?
Absolutely. A heroic figure is sacrificed and appears to die – although he does return to life later in the show. There are incidences of staged sword combat that result in the death of a villainous figure.

Sounds dark! Is all the show like that?
THE LION, THE WITCH, AND THE WARDROBE is a story about hope and family, and it remains a children’s classic for a reason. Although it dips into darker themes, there’s plenty of levity to serve as counterbalance and make the story meaningful for both children and adults. Plus, there’s a family of beavers. What’s not to love?

We hoped this answered some of your questions and got you excited for the show! See you soon.


At this time, masks are still required by our actor’s union for safety reasons.
Review DCT’s Health and Safety Policies and Procedures


THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE
Adapted by Joseph Robinette
Based on the book by C.S. Lewis
Directed by Artie Olaisen

April 3 – May 15, 2022
Ages 7 and up

One of the most celebrated books in children’s literature and the #1 most requested DCT play returns to the stage to create a remarkable world of magic. Join young adventurers Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy as they step through the not so ordinary wardrobe and into the mythical land of C.S. Lewis’ Narnia. Facing fantastic creatures and fierce battles in the heart and on the land, the four siblings must find the courage to battle the treacherous White Witch in order to end the deadly eternal winter in the beautiful forest. Guided by the all-knowing Lion, Aslan, these discoverers learn to cast aside their own fears to find the heroes within themselves.

Get your tickets as soon as you can; we’re known to fill up fast…

Sunday, April 3, 1:30PM
Sunday, April 3, 4:30PM
Saturday, April 9, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 9, 4:30PM
Sunday, April 10, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 16, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 23, 1:30PM
Sunday, April 24, 1:30PM
Saturday, April 30, 1:30PM
Sunday, May 1, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 7, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 7, 4:30PM
Sunday, May 8, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 14, 1:30PM
Saturday, May 14, 4:30PM
Sunday, May 15, 1:30PM
Sunday, May 15, 4:30PM

Dallas Children’s Theater Board Installs New President, New Trustee

Dallas Children’s Theater (DCT) kicks off 2022 with the installation of a new president…James (Jim) Markus, Partner at Haynes Boone, a top tier law firm headquartered in Dallas. The Board of Trustees unanimously welcomed Markus, along with a number of new trustees, this month.

Markus has been involved with DCT for more than 25 years.  He has served the nonprofit organization in numerous capacities including acting as its outside counsel, chairing the development committee and advising on legal and financial aspects of the acquisition and construction of DCT’s current facility, which was purchased in 2002. Over the years, Markus has contributed hundreds of hours of pro bono services to the theater. 

Markus and his wife, Ellen, have been ticketholders and donors of DCT for decades, and they consider DCT to be the best in the country when it comes to family entertainment. Additionally, Markus is proud of the longstanding reputation of DCT’s Academy school, which serves children ages 3.5 to 18, and DCT’s many programs that have provided children and families with an entry point to the arts in North Texas and beyond.  DCT has touched over five million people in its 37-year history.

In law practice for more than 40 years, Markus represents financial institutions, corporations, private equity firms and alternative lenders on a range of corporate finance and restructuring transactions. He is a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation and is a member of a number of industry organizations, including the Turnaround Management Association, the Dallas Bar Association, the Secured Finance Network, and the Texas Association of Bank Counsel. Markus recently served as a board member and officer of KidLinks, a local nonprofit organization providing music therapy and therapeutic music entertainment to children in need. 

“I am honored and excited to serve as DCT’s next president,” Markus said.  “After nearly two years of drastically curtailed operations in response to the pandemic, DCT is now poised to continue offering an unmatched season of Broadway-like performances as well as expanding its instructional programs.” Markus added, “DCT is a unique and beloved North Texas treasure, and this was demonstrated by the amazing levels of support we received from staff, donors and the community at large during the pandemic.”

Markus will focus on building upon the DCT successes achieved in the virtual space during the pandemic as well as ramping up for a full return to the organization’s unique brand of live, family-friendly entertainment in the 2022-2023 season.  Markus shared, “I am particularly looking forward to DCT’s presentation of 10 SECONDS, a part of DCT’s Social Justice Initiative, coming up in May.

In addition to Markus, the following eight community members have signed on to serve on the 38-member board: 

Morgan Bennett has a BS from University of Texas, an MS from the University North Texas, and she also studied abroad at the University of Edinburgh. She is currently an Accounting Manager at HBK Investments. Morgan and her husband Kilian, have a two-year old son.

Sarah Freedman went to Franklin & Marshall College (Lancaster, PA) for her undergraduate studies and earned her MBA at NYU Stern School of Business. She is a Managing Director for Citizens Bank and is on the board of Dallas Pets Alive. She and her husband, Chris Skoog, recently saw PADDINGTON SAVES CHRISTMAS as their first DCT show.

Jacqueline Mackewicz is Vice President, Global Talent Acquisition and People Analytics at Texas Instruments. Jacqui has worked with the United Way Tocqueville Society as well as UTD’s Jindal School of Management Advisory Council. Jacqui and her husband, Raymond, have two children.

Elizabeth “Beth” Minton got her BA from Duke University and received her JD from Case Western Reserve University School of Law.  She is Managing Counsel for Toyota Motor Credit Corporation and has been a board member of the Junior League of Dallas for seven years.

Tim Mullins is a graduate of Texas Tech University and is Vice President of Digital Sales at Capital One and is the Account Executive for Capital One’s CapAbilities BRG Group. He has served on UTD’s Jindal School of Management Advisory Council. Tim and his two children are avid theatergoers and daughter, Ainsley, has taken DCT Academy classes and has appeared in the teen Next Stop Broadway showcase. Tim is a member of the Governance and Nominating Committee where he is leading the Sustained Board Member Program.

Amanda Schnetzer has a BA from SMU and an MA from Georgetown University. Amanda is the Founder and CEO of  FirstThen (a pre-seed health tech start-up focused on Families of ADHD children). She has also served on the board of Church of the Incarnation and the George Bush Institute Review Committee for North Korean Refugee Scholarships. She and her husband, David, along with daughter, Reagan, have seen many productions at DCT. Amanda is a member of DCT’s Social Justice Initiative Committee.

Shanti Shahini de Venegas is the Owner/Founder of Artisan Luxury.  Shahini and her husband, Ian Venegas, have two children. Son Ian, aged 12, has attended multiple DCT Summer Camps and productions. Shahini serves on DCT’s Social Justice Initiative Committee.

Evan P. Singer went to Vanderbilt University for his undergraduate studies and attended the Dedman School of Law at SMU. He is a partner at Jones Day with a focus on Securities Litigation & SEC Enforcement. He and his wife, Rachael, have three children and, as a family, have seen a host of DCT productions over the years. Singer serves on the Governance and Nominating Committee.


About Dallas Children’s Theater 

Dallas Children’s Theater features professional actors performing for an annual audience of 250,000 young people and their families through mainstage productions, a national touring company, and an arts-in-education program.  As the only major organization in Dallas focusing solely on youth and family theater, DCT builds bridges of understanding between generations and cultures, instilling an early appreciation of literature, art and the performing arts in tomorrow’s artists and patrons.

Photo:  James (Jim) Markus

###

Spotlight on DCT Family, Ana, Emily and Nicholas Istre

Meet the youngest of the Istre family, Ana. She along with her mom and dad, Emily and Nicholas, love attending DCT shows.

One of the joys of being a children’s theater is the jubilant audience interactivity during shows. This was definitely the case during a DCT performance of Disney’s BEAUTY AND THE BEAST when a single voice rang out in the theater. When Belle’s father was taken, and audience members expressed fright, a young voice reassured everyone with these thoughtful and caring words:

Whether it’s gently comforting audiences, or helping sponsor our upcoming production of THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE—the Istre Family has been a source of support and love to DCT.

“We couldn’t be more excited to help bring back theater to our children and look forward to spreading the joy to our community,” says mother, Emily.

We couldn’t agree more. Thank you Istre family, for a financial contribution that helps make THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE possible.

With your support, we echo the words of the youngest Istre: Don’t worry, we’ll be fine, you’ll see!

Be sure to check out all of the shows in our current season. There is something for all families to enjoy!

Dec. 5 – Dec. 23, 2021

Ages 4 and up

 


Jan. 23 – Feb. 20, 2022

Ages 4 and up

 


April 3 – May 15, 2022

Ages 7 and up

 


April 29 – May 1, 2022

Ages 13 and up

 


First photo courtesy of the Istre family. Production photo by Linda Blase.
PRODUCTION IMAGE CREDITS: PADDINGTON SAVES CHRISTMAS image: Courtesy of Rockefeller Productions. © P&Co Ltd 2019 Licensed on behalf of Copyrights Group. DRAGONS LOVE TACOS logo: Courtesy of Penguin Group. Illustration: Daniel Salmieri, from the book Dragons Love Tacos © 2010. 10 SECONDS logo: Courtesy of Imagination Stage. All other images © 2021 Dallas Children’s Theater.

5 Paddington Facts You Should Know…

Paddington is actually from Peru – he even has a Peruvian name: Pastuzo – although when he tries to say it comes out in bear, and thus sounds like a series of growling noises.

 

Paddington is called Paddington because he was found at Paddington Station with a note around his neck saying: “Please look after this bear.” The note was written by his beloved Aunt Lucy who he still regularly writes to.

 

It was Aunt Lucy that gave Paddington his love of marmalade; the flavors remind him of home.

 

 

Aunt Lucy currently lives in the Home For Retired Bears in Lima, Peru, while Paddington lives with the Browns in London.

 

 

 

Paddington is lucky to have two homes, two families, and plenty of sandwiches!

 

 


Be sure to get your tickets to Paddington; we’re selling out fast!

PADDINGTON SAVES CHRISTMAS
Adapted by Doug Kmiotek
Based on the book by Michael Bond
Created by Jonathan Rockefeller
Directed by Douglass Burks

Dec. 5 – Dec. 23, 2021
Ages 4 and up

Advance reservations required. The show will likely sell out ahead of time, and we will not be selling extra tickets at the door on show day.

It’s holiday time in the Brown household and Paddington — the famous, accident-prone bear — is here to save the day! When he and the Brown’s housekeeper, Mrs. Bird, run out of sugar for the seasonal marmalade jam they are preparing, Paddington heads next door to borrow some from Mr. Curry. Unfortunately, the usually grumpy Mr. Curry is even more short tempered than normal as he prepares for a visit from his great aunt who is a stickler for tidiness. Paddington, feeling sorry for Mr. Curry, volunteers to help him with his chores. But Paddington’s good intentions end up leading to chaos, as one by one, each of his tasks take on an unexpected outcome! Will Paddington be able to fix everything in time for everyone to properly celebrate the holidays? Find out in this fun-filled holiday comedy!

ACCLAIMED PLAYWRIGHT COMMISSIONED FOR INNOVATIVE NEW WORK

Paige Hernandez will create theater piece based on Maya Angelou’s poem “Life Doesn’t Frighten Me”

“Shadow on the wall
Noises down the hall
Life doesn’t frighten me at all”

So begins the poem by famed poet and author Maya Angelou, and soon this poem about courage, resilience and strength will be adapted into a new theater piece for children by multidisciplinary artist Paige Hernandez (she/her/hers).  

Hernandez is a critically acclaimed playwright, performer, director, and choreographer, based in the Washington, DC area.  She has been co-commissioned to create this new work by four theater companies:  Children’s Theatre of Charlotte (NC), Children’s Theater of Madison (WI), Dallas Children’s Theater (TX), and The Rose (NE).  Hernandez is most notably known for her effective fusion of theatre, hip-hop, dance, and education.  She will work directly with children in each theater’s community to generate the content of the play, using the poem and the illustrations by Jean-Michel Basquiat as inspiration and source material.  

“To say that this project feels like a perfect fit is an understatement! I have been a lifelong fan of (Maya) Angelou, (Jean-Michel) Basquiat and specifically of Angelou’s poem, ‘Life Doesn’t Frighten Me.’ I have taught this poem for many years and look forward to putting my mindful hip hop aesthetic into a devised children’s theatre piece,” says Hernandez.  The project will begin in early 2022, with Hernandez conducting workshops with children in each of the theaters’ communities.  These highly participatory workshops will illuminate the similarities and differences of children from different parts of the country, as they respond to the same artistic stimulus. From the workshops, Hernandez will cull and adapt the material which will be used in the creation of the play itself.  Visual art, music, dance, spoken word, and other artistic forms will be incorporated into the final product.

“We are thrilled to have Paige Hernandez on board as Playwright for this project,” says Arlethia Hailstock, School Performance Coordinator and Staff EDI Lead at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte. “Paige is an engaging, energetic, and accomplished artist and educator.  Between Angelou’s words, the energy of the young people involved in the workshops, and Paige’s vision, audiences are in for an incredible experience.”

Workshops in the four cities – Charlotte (NC), Madison (WI), Dallas (TX), and Omaha (NE) will involve youth of various ages and demographics, from first grade through teenage.  As Carina DuMarce, Associate Director of CommUNITY Connections at The Rose in Omaha says “The fact that Paige will be workshopping with The Rose while two of our ‘Teens ‘N’ Theater’ programs are rolling is incredibly exciting! These young people have such a strong, creative voice. It’ll be quite magical to see how the words of ‘Life Doesn’t Frighten Me’ and Paige’s process intertwine with the voice of these teens.” 

The play will get a workshop production at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte in August 2022.  From there, a set of rolling premieres will be scheduled at each of the four collaborating theater companies.  The productions will be appropriate for ages 4 – 8.

 “The potential of this project and the collaboration between these flagship theaters and their communities takes my breath away. Audiences can expect an experience that is authentic, insightful, and that amplifies the voices of children from several communities throughout the country,” says Hernandez.

As an arts educator, Paige Hernandez has taught all ages, in several art disciplines. To date, she has reached more than 10,000 students, from pre-K through college, in hundreds of residencies, workshops, and performances around the world. She has been recognized in several organizations including the Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning through the Arts and Arena Stage where she was awarded the Thomas Fichandler award for exceptional promise in theater education. The Huffington Post named Hernandez a “classroom hero” because of her outstanding arts integration work with STEM initiatives.  As a playwright, she has collaborated with the Lincoln Center and has been commissioned by several companies including the National New Play Network, the Smithsonian, The Kennedy Center, La Jolla Playhouse, the Glimmerglass Festival, and the University of Maryland. Hernandez was named a “Top Theatre Worker You Should Know” by American Theatre Magazine, “40 under 40” by the Washingtonian Magazine, a “Rising Leader of Color” by Theatre Communications Group and a “Citizen Artist” by the Kennedy Center. 

Hernandez received an Individual Artist Award from the Maryland State Arts Council as well as four Helen Hayes nominations for choreography, directing, and performance. She was recently recognized by the Wall Street Journal for her direction of Proof at Everyman Theatre in Maryland where she is also Associate Artistic Director. With her company B-FLY ENTERTAINMENT, Hernandez continues to develop original work for multi-cultural and multi-generational hip hop audiences.  Her original one-woman show, “Havana Hop”, a children’s tale of culture and originality, has toured nationally.

Hernandez applied for the commission through a national open call.  She was selected by a committee of representatives from the four collaborating theaters. Though she already had numerous projects on her agenda for the upcoming year, she didn’t hesitate when offered to take on this project.  With customary exuberance, she accepted the theater companies’ offer.  “I am THRILLED for this invitation. THANK YOU! I can’t wait to dig in,” she said. 

###

About the project:

A new play by Paige Hernandez, for children ages 3-6 years old, based on Maya Angelou’s poem “Life Doesn’t Frighten Me” from the book “And Still I Rise.” ©1978 by Maya Angelou, Used with permission of Caged Bird Legacy, LLC.

About the theaters:

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte (NC): Children’s Theatre of Charlotte inspires generations to explore the wonder of their world and foster a sense of belonging and empathy. Initiatives like The Kindness Project develop and commission original plays for young audiences that are grounded in actively displaying kindness toward others. Adam Burke, Artistic Director; Nao Tsurumaki, Managing Director.
www.ctcharlotte.org

Children’s Theater of Madison (WI): CTM’s mission is to create vibrant theater experiences that engage, educate and inspire young people and their communities. Founded in 1965, CTM’s productions cast professional adult actors alongside talented youth. Their extensive educational programs include in-school and after-school programs.  Roseann Sheridan, Artistic Director; Allen Ebert, Executive Director.   www.ctmtheater.org

Dallas Children’s Theater (TX): DCT builds bridges of understanding between generations and cultures, instilling an early appreciation of literature, art, and the performing arts in tomorrow’s artists and patrons.  Productions feature professional actors performing for an annual audience of 250,000 young people and their families through mainstage productions, a national touring company, and an arts-in-education program. Nancy Schaeffer, Artistic Director; Artie Olsen, Associate Artistic Director.
www.dct.org

The Rose (NE): The Rose Theater in Omaha inspires young people and their families to discover the magic of theater, to find their voices and to enrich their communities. Operating out of a beautiful historic theater, The Rose offers professional productions, student generated works, and a wide array of classes, workshops and residencies serving young people across the metro. Managing Director, Julie Walker and Artistic Director, Matt Gutschick.
www.rosetheater.org

Donors help Dallas Children’s Theater create magic at Children’s Health…

On a quiet Wednesday in September, some very important people met up on the hospital’s Channel 77 for an adventure.

Three of them were adults: the hard-working Seacrest Studios hosts Abbie and Marin, and Dallas Children’s Theater’s own Miss Alyssa (aka Belle from DCT’s production of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST). There were four children visible on the screen: Angel, Autumn, J Don, and Acone. They were patients at Children’s Health dealing with their own unique set of challenges, but still wanting to be a part of the fun. And, there was a host of other children participating off camera from their rooms. 

Left to right: J Don, Angel, Acone, and Autumn

Ordinarily, Dallas Children’s Theater makes in-person promotional appearances at the hospital to promote upcoming shows. The cast performs short segments and signs autographs for kiddoes and families alike. With COVID regulations, we had to think of alternative ways to connect with our young audiences. And fortunately, such setbacks don’t deter DCT from ensuring that all children get access to live theater.

Left to right: SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK LIVE 2019, A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD 2016.

“Wow. Yesterday’s show was truly incredible,” sent Abbie in an e-mail after the performance. “We are so excited for next month and can’t thank you enough for all your work in coordinating this virtual workshop. Alyssa is so talented and demonstrated such a deep passion and skill for connecting with and empowering children! We are beyond grateful.”

In wild times such as these, it’s important to remember what really matters: connection, hope, and a whole lot of love.

Dallas Children’s Theater wishes to thank the Ryan Goldblatt Foundation along with Staci and Scott Reznik for making our presence at Children’s Health possible. You believe, as we do, that ALL children deserve the magic of live theater. As we’ve often said, theater is wonderful food for a child’s soul.

Photos: Courtesy of Children’s Health

Bears, Dragons and Lions…oh my! Family fun on sale now.

 


PADDINGTON SAVES CHRISTMAS
Adapted by Doug Kmiotek
Based on the book by Michael Bond
Created by Jonathan Rockefeller 
Directed by Douglass Burks

Dec. 5 – Dec. 23, 2021
Recommended for ages 4 and up

It’s holiday time in the Brown household and Paddington – the famous, accident prone bear – is here to save the day! When he and the Brown’s housekeeper, Mrs. Bird, run out of sugar for the seasonal marmalade jam they are preparing, Paddington heads next door to borrow some from Mr. Curry. Unfortunately, the usually grumpy Mr. Curry is even more short tempered than normal as he prepares for a visit from his great aunt who is a stickler for tidiness. Paddington, feeling sorry for Mr. Curry, volunteers to help him with his chores. But Paddington’s good intentions end up leading to chaos, as one by one, each of his tasks take on an unexpected outcome! Will Paddington be able to fix everything in time for everyone to properly celebrate the holidays? Find out in this fun-filled holiday comedy!

Tickets starting at $17


DRAGONS LOVE TACOS
Written by Ernie Nolan
Based on the book by Adam Rubin
Illustrated by Daniel Salmieri
Directed by Nancy Schaeffer
Published by Penguin Group & Produced by special arrangement with Plays for Young Audiences

Jan. 23 – Feb. 20, 2022

Recommended for ages 4 and up

A boy and his dog are watching a TV show about dragons when a mind-blowing secret is revealed: Dragons love tacos! Chicken tacos, beef tacos, great big tacos, teeny tiny tacos, all kinds of tacos. So, the boy and his dog decide to throw a taco party to end all taco parties for a flock of dragons, each with their own unique style and personality. But what are the fiery consequences for eating tacos with spicy jalapeño pepper salsa? This hilarious, dance-filled journey into the field of Dragonology is equal parts ridiculous and delicious, and has all the ingredients for a fantastic time!

Tickets starting at $15


THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE
Adapted by Joseph Robinette
Based on the book by C.S. Lewis
Directed by Artie Olaisen
Produced by special arrangement with DRAMATIC PUBLISHING, Woodstock, Illinois

April 3 – May 15, 2022
Recommended for ages 7 and up

One of the most celebrated books in children’s literature and the #1 most requested DCT play returns to the stage to create a remarkable world of magic. Join young adventurers Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy as they step through the not so ordinary wardrobe and into the mythical land of C.S. Lewis’ Narnia. Facing fantastic creatures and fierce battles in the heart and on the land, the four siblings must find the courage to battle the treacherous White Witch in order to end the deadly eternal winter in the beautiful forest. Guided by the all-knowing Lion, Aslan, these discoverers learn to cast aside their own fears to find the heroes within themselves.

Tickets starting at $15


10 Seconds
Written by Miriam Gonzales
Commissioned by Imagination Stage in Bethesda, MD
Directed by Richard T. Quadri

Recommended for audiences ages 13 and up

In a world where deeply-rooted biases and misperceptions easily take hold, life can often feel unnerving – things can change for better or worse in a blink of an eye. Ray and Jimi are Washington, DC high school students who are navigating their young adult worlds and what it means to be young black men in the city. Ray tells the story of a day, and the 10 seconds inside that day, that they will never forget. We see not only their perspectives, but also those of the police they encounter. Through audience engagement and interactive moments, the play provides opportunities for reflection and discussion.

Each performance will be followed by a talkback featuring helpful subject matter resources from law enforcement and area youth groups.

Special Price: $10 per person


Special thanks to the following supporters that are helping us move toward brighter days…