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Court House Players A Skill Building Program

“I love it, there is so much collaboration here,” enthused Cora Rowe, a rising 8th grader and aspiring pianist who was a first-time participant in the Court House Players Community Theater summer program for children.  The program is in collaboration with the Missoula Children’s Theater, a touring company that arrives with costumes, scenery, and props.  With the help of volunteers, the week-long camp is a run by professional actors, accommodating up to 62 children from rising first graders to high-school seniors. 

River Counties Community Foundation supports skill-building program  

“I love it, there is so much collaboration here,” enthused Cora Rowe, a rising 8th grader and aspiring pianist who was a first-time participant in the Court House Players Community Theater summer program for children.  The program is in collaboration with the Missoula Children’s Theater, a touring company that arrives with costumes, scenery, and props.  With the help of volunteers, the week-long camp is a run by professional actors, accommodating up to 62 children from rising first graders to high-school seniors.

Children learn a play in one week; all lines, songs, and dances. In addition to rehearsals, there are workshops to teach voice projection, parts of the stage, set design and directing.  “Supporting organizations that provide enrichment and educational opportunities through arts and cultural activities is the guiding principle in River Counties Community Foundation’s Cultural Vibrancy focus area,” said Leslie Franklin, Regional Grants Management Officer.  Court House Players was a successful recipient in the Foundation’s 2018 Competitive Grant Process, receiving a grant that enabled Court House Players to give 10 children scholarships. “There aren’t many venues for the arts in Middlesex. Many of these children have never had experience with musical arts. Once involved, 80% return to participate another year and several have been involved for as long as 13 years,” said Aryah Hudgins, Children’s Theater coordinator.

Landon Hudgins has participated in Court House Players Children’s Theater since the age of 5. Landon praised his experience, “I’ve become more out-going, which makes social situations easier. Standing in front of an audience doing anything builds character.  It has taught me public speaking, team building, and leadership. It has matured me,” said Landon.   Pianist, Cora says she is becoming more comfortable in her ability to accompany a performer.  She wants to do children’s theater again and dreams of pursuing a career in music.

“In a rural area, the Foundation’s focus is on ensuring residents, young and old, have access to high-quality arts and cultural opportunities.  This year River Counties Community Foundation disbursed approximately $37,000 in the Cultural Vibrancy category, a small portion of more than $550,000 in total grants awarded to nonprofit organizations in Middlesex, Lancaster and Northumberland counties,” said Franklin.  According to Regional Director, Margaret Nost, “Wise management of donor funds has grown Foundation assets to more than $17 million.   We invite anyone interested in supporting programs such as Court House Players to create a lasting gift.  We will take your gift and grow it.  Together we do more good for our community.”  



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