Children’s theater company prepares another powerful performance
The Lake Forest Children’s Theatre Company is at it again. For more than fifteen years the company has invited children aged five to thirteen, regardless of their previous experience, to join a twelve-week program that culminates in a first-class production. In fact, the program is made up of a number of different groups—in Highland Park, Deerfield, Lake Forest, Winnetka, River Forest, and Chicago—that hone their acting skills over the course of those twelve weeks. They then perform the selected production on a stage in their area. Since 1999, the company has donated a portion of the proceeds from these performances to The Foundation and its fight against pediatric brain tumors. This year will be no different, as a new crop of budding actors prepares for a fall staging of “Willy Wonka Junior,” an adaptation of the classic film about a mystical and musical chocolate factory.
Margo Proeh, the company’s director, continues to lead a production staff skilled in musical theater that works with students in achieving the basic skills of dance, drama, and music. “We also develop their social and personal skills,” says Margo. “That’s where our relationship with The Foundation over the years has helped them discover a sense of purpose and a spirit of pride and leadership. This program is an experience they remember and take with them wherever they go.”
Some of the company’s past students have continued to build on their theatrical experience, whether as performers or team members behind the scenes. “Our kids learn a variety of skills, including stage directing and technical aspects of the theater,” says Margo. “The program gives them a great foundation for their continuing education, whether it is in the arts or anything else. I’m not surprised that we continue to draw so many interested kids from around the Chicago area, and I’m not surprised that they find inspiration in our support of The Rory David Deutsch Foundation. There couldn’t be a more important cause.”
For more information on the company’s program or production schedule, visit www.thechildrenstheatreco.com or call 847-831-0555.
