CARLYLE - The Missoula Children's Theatre (MCT) returned to Carlyle for another year.
Directors Audra Tibbit and Austin Plunkett arrived in Carlyle in their red truck loaded with a production set, costumes and props – everything that was needed to put on a performance except for the actors who waited at the Carlyle schools.
Auditions began Oct. 21, when 41 excited students from the Carlyle Elementary School and the Gordon F. Kells High School were cast in the production of Hercules. They rehearsed every evening and put on the performance Oct. 25, in front of a crowd of nearly 200 people.
The MCT was founded in 1970 by Jim Caron, who was from Missoula, Mont. His intention was to bring theatre art to young people in Missoula.
Caron, along with his co-founder Don Collins, noticed the lack of youth-oriented performance opportunities in the area and wanted to create something that allowed children to experience the magic of theatre.
What began as a single production in Missoula quickly transformed as they expanded the MCT’s reach beyond Montana.
This small local theatre has grown into an international movement that inspires creativity, confidence and collaboration in young people.
One of the distinguishing aspects of MCT is the little red truck touring model.
Each week, teams of two MCT actors-directors drive to communities – small towns and and cities alike – and bring everything they need to put on a production.
When the cast begins their work, they learn lines, songs and choreography in only five days.
While producing a high-quality show is important, the MCT’s emphasis on life skills is what sets it apart. Participation in theatre requires discipline, teamwork and communication skills that are transferrable to all aspects of life.
The MCT believes that these experiences can help build a foundation of self-confidence and resilience in children. By putting young people in the spotlight, MCT fosters a sense of responsibility and pride in their work.
