By Allyson Joy

For over 50 years, Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT) International Tour has impacted the lives of more than one million children. Based in Missoula Montana, MCT travels to 50 states, 5 Canadian Provinces, and 16 countries to bring creative resources to small towns. MCT targets small communities in order to enhance the lives of children, introducing them to the ever-expanding world of theater.

The Artesia Arts Council has welcomed MCT to Artesia for over 20 years. On Monday, June 5th, children eagerly gathered at the Ocotillo as they awaited auditions. Characters were assigned, and the kids hit the ground running as they learned lines, music lyrics, and dance moves. In only 5 short days, directors Spencer Hamilton and Julia Steudle equipped 18 children with everything they needed to present a musical. On Saturday, June 10, this group of hard-working children entertained friends and family with The Secret Garden, a performance that left the audience smiling and utterly impressed by what a few days of focused effort could produce. 

The performing arts invite us into a world of creativity, expression, and growth. Skills made manifest on stage such as public speaking and line recitation are obvious, but even more competencies are developed long before the first public performance including teamwork, patience, and perseverance. Participants of this year’s camp (and parents!) are already looking forward to what MCT will bring next summer.