Classics, adaptations and regional premieres make up the 86th season of shows for kids at Nashville Children’s Theatre (NCT) in 2017-18. Next season’s theme, “Everyone Has a Story,” marks the first for NCT under the leadership of new Executive Artistic Director Ernie Nolan.
“I feel so lucky to be able to call an organization with such talented artists, top notch staff and dedicated board my new home,” says Nolan. “As I’ve begun to meet people in the community, it seems like everyone has a story about NCT’s impact on their lives. I am really excited about Nashville audiences seeing themselves in the stories we tell on stage. I want everyone to leave our theater feeling like they saw their story at NCT,” he adds.
THE 2017-18 SEASON SCHEDULE AT NCT
THE HUNDRED DRESSES
Sept. 14 – Oct. 1, 2017
By William Kent Williams; adapted from the book by Eleanor Estes
Directed by Ernie Nolan
Based on the Newberry Award-winning novel, The Hundred Dresses takes audiences of all ages on a journey about finding the courage to stand up for others, even if you’re standing alone.
MR. POPPER’S PENGUINS
Southeast Regional Premiere
Oct. 26 – Dec. 3, 2017
Book by Robert Kauzlaric; music and lyrics by George Howe
Based on the novel by Richard and Florence Atwater
Directed by Ernie Nolan with puppet designs by Brian Hull
Based on the Newberry Award-winning book, Mr. Popper’s Penguins is a flipper-flapping musical tale encouraging kids to believe in the power of ingenuity and determination.
CINDERELLA (pictured above)
Special Holiday Event
Dec. 14 – 21, 2017
Dramatized by Scot Copeland; remounted by Daniel Brewer
This family-favorite production is back for its third year. Kids love the theatrical effects and the unique twist NCT puts on the classic story.
THE SNOWY DAY & OTHER STORIES
Jan. 18 – Feb. 1, 2018
Adapted by Jerome Hairston; based on the books by Ezra Jack Keats
Directed by Alicia Fuss
This production will use innovative shadow puppetry and live action to celebrate Keats’ treasured characters. The collection of stories adapted to the stage encourages kids to play and live life to the fullest each day.
MOCKINGBIRD (mock’ing-burd)
March 1 – 18, 2018
Adapted by Julie Jensen; based on the 2010 National Book Award winner by Kathryn Erskine
Directed by Ernie Nolan
Centering on an 11-year-old girl with Asperger’s syndrome, this story enables children to discover how the perseverance of one person can change a community — and how black and white can always be complemented by a kaleidoscope of colors.
DRAGONS LOVE TACOS
Southeast Regional Premiere
April 12 – May 13, 2018
By Ernie Nolan; based on the book by Adam Rubin
Directed by Ernie Nolan
Adapted from the New York Times best seller, Dragons Love Tacos is a deliciously funny tale full of fiery fun for the whole family. It’s a story of new friends and the perfect snack.
SAVE WITH SEASON MEMBERSHIPS
Single tickets for next season go on sale Aug. 13, 2017, but two season memberships are on sale now:
NCT Diamond Membership
For $200, you get 10 tickets to use anytime in the season — for youth or adults — plus four tickets to Cinderella.
NCT Sapphire Membership
For $150, you get 10 tickets to use anytime in the season (does not include Cinderella).
Membership benefits include discounts on additional adult tickets during the season, a 10-percent discount on all NCT drama camps and classes, discount tickets to Cinderella, free ticket exchange and special offers available throughout the season.
For more info or to purchase a membership package, call 615-252-4675 or visit nashvillect.org.
