Do you remember the first time your parents brought you to the theatre as a child?  (For us, it was to see “The King and I” with Yul Brynner on Broadway, back when you actually got dressed up to see a show, and after having learned the music and lyrics from repeatedly listening to the cast album on our record player). 

Help Support Free Summer Theatre for Kids  

Today, with funding for the arts in education an ongoing political football, the unfortunate reality is that many American children never have the opportunity to experience live theatre.  That is why we are such enthusiasts of Theatreworks USA.  In their 23 year history they have opened their doors to over 250,000 children, teachers and families each summer nationwide, and with a little help, this summer they will invite in 15,000 more. Theatreworks USA is also America’s largest theatre for young and family audiences, bringing plays, musicals, and guest artist tours to at least 44 states every year.

You can support Theatreworks USA in many ways, but one particularly easy and entertaining way for those in the NY area is to buy tickets to their Summer Theatre Benefit, Monday, July 25th at 6:30 pm at the Lucille Lortel Theatre in New York City. 

Bring the whole family to enjoy the world premiere of the original salsa and merengue-infused musical “The Yellow Brick Road,” inspired by The Wizard of Oz.  (Ed note: I am a member of the benefit committee, chaired by Chita Rivera, so you will see me there with my family)!  The show is followed by dinner a short walk away at Garage.  Tickets to the event start at a quite reasonable $50.

If you are not in the NY area at this time, you can still become a supporter, and look for one of their terrific children’s productions to hit a theatre near you in the coming school year, including “Junie B. Jones,” “We The People,” “Seussical!” and this new one.

Support TheatreworksUSA.org

(And enjoy your holiday weekend)!