Winners Announced For The 2022 BroadwayWorld South Carolina Awards

Thank you to all of the SCCT community and audiences for voting in the 2022 BroadwayWorld South Carolina Awards! Your nominations and votes won us the titles of Best New Play/Musical (Missing Moon) and Best Theatre for Young Audiences Production (The Sound of Music). See all of the winners here.

Coming up next at South Carolina Children’s Theatre is The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, a play based on the children’s book of the same name by the award-winning children’s literature author Kate DiCamillo (of the Mercy Watson series and The Tale of Despereaux). The story follows a toy rabbit whose capacity for love grows through loss. It is an epic tale of resilience and empathy. The imaginative stage adaptation will run January 27th – February 5th on the SCCT Bell MainStage, and is directed by one of Greenville’s most accomplished directors, Jay Briggs. A skilled cast of 5 actors will bring to life over 20 characters with original music composed by upstate musician David Sims over 80 magical minutes. We sat down with director Jay Briggs to hear more about what audiences can expect from this magical production.

SCCT: Is this your first time directing at SCCT?

BRIGGS: Yes! This is my first time directing for SCCT, and I was thrilled to accept the opportunity for professional and personal reasons. SCCT is an excellent, well-respected theatre, and I have several personal connections to the organization. As a high-schooler, I took classes with Betsy Bisson at Flat Rock Playhouse in North Carolina, and my eight-year-old daughter has been taking classes at SCCT since she was in pre-school. In my past experiences being a part of and directing theatre for young audiences, I’ve found that it is exciting and vital work. Then, when SCCT Artistic Director Matt Giles sent me the script for The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, the beauty and heightened theatricality immediately caught my interest.

 

SCCT: The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane is a popular book. Had you read it before signing on to direct this play?

BRIGGS: I had read some of Kate DiCamillo’s other works, but not this one. While I highly recommend the book, reading it to enjoy this play is not necessary. The theatrical adaptation is beautifully engaging and imaginatively tells the same story.

SCCT: How will the play’s scenic design help tell the story of Edward Tulane? 

BRIGGS: SCCT Technical Director Genesis Garza’s scenic design will set our actors in an old attic full of lost treasures and surprising stories. It is a beautiful representation of a child’s imagination, with endless possibilities for magic.

 

SCCT: What are the major themes of the story?

BRIGGS: The primary lesson in this play is the importance of resilience and that sometimes love deepens through loss. This is a critical message for young people, especially in light of the past 2-3 years. Kids and families have been through a lot. And there are a couple of different ways to react to the trials we’ve been through – either by closing off and convincing yourself that it is the best way not to get hurt or by keeping your heart open and allowing yourself to grow as a result of tough times.

 

SCCT: Why do you think families will enjoy this play?

BRIGGS: This play reminds families of what’s truly important – love and relationships through a story of resilience told dynamically with compelling performances, imaginative scenic design, and original music.

 

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane opens Friday, January 27^th and closes on Sunday, February 5^th. The show runs for 80 minutes and is recommended for ages eight and up.

 

Tickets are $20 and can be purchased:

in person at the SCCT Box Office at 153 Augusta Street

by phone 864-235-2885

and online at scchildrenstheatre.org/the-miraculous-journey-of-edward-tulane/

‘The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane’ to Open at SCCT was published in The Greenville Journal January 5, 2023.

There’s something magical on its way to Greenville’s West End. Rodgers & Hammerstein’s
Cinderella is the second production of the 2022-23 season at South Carolina Children’s Theatre
(SCCT) and opens Friday, November 18th on the Bell MainStage. This Broadway adaptation of
the classic musical features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists, and an
unforgettable score.

SCCT’s Artistic Director, Matt Giles (also the director of this production), wasn’t always a fan of
the classic musical. He and his brother grew up watching it on television.“The story of Cinderella
is ingrained in us all – it’s ancient and timeless. I wasn’t always a massive fan of this musical as
a kid. Every year I watched the televised version with Lesley Ann Warren – and I fell asleep. But,
after reading the updated Broadway script from 2013, I felt like the revisions gave the story new
life to speak to audiences of a newer generation. There’s still plenty of magic, but there’s also a
great sense of self-determination or magic of your own making. With the same beautiful music
and a few fun twists from our excellent design team, I’m confident this production will charm
audiences of all ages. I always love finding pieces that grandchildren will enjoy as much as
grandparents,” says Giles.

There are several versions of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella, all of which were made for
TV: one in 1957 starring Julie Andrews, and another in 1965 starring Lesley Ann Warren (the
version Giles grew up watching), and the 1997 version starring Brandy and Whitney Houston.
This updated book by Douglas Carter Greene, gives Cinderella more agency and provides a
strong example of female friendship.

Giles is also working with his production team to put a fashionably fun and modern stamp on the
design of the show. Costume Designer, Sarah Greene is busy at work upcycling and sewing
from scratch to create a unique take on 1700’s Rococo fashion that incorporates exciting colors
and textures from the 1980’s. “We are excited to reimagine Cinderella in this unique artistic
style. So while there will still be the frills and ruffles that everyone loves, the show will have a
new feel and flair that we know will delight our audiences,” says Giles.

Cast member, Krissy Tucker, plays Madame (the evil stepmother) in this production.
Commenting on how the updated version of the story, Tucker says, “This version has more
depth, humor, and a bit more sarcasm than the original. It doesn’t give way to the notion from
the original that one person has to be saved from their situation by any one person. Or that your
social status determines your value or worth.”

Tucker is also looking forward to playing Madame alongside her own daughter Alexis Poole,
making this a family affair. “This is our first time acting together onstage and playing mother and
daughter actually makes it a lot easier, says Tucker.“It allows me to pull from a real place and
hopefully will help bring an authenticity that is tangible to the audience. And most importantly it’s
so much fun. This experience is taking our relationship to a whole new level!”

In planning the Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella in SCCT’s coveted winter slot, the creative
team is excited to produce a show that will appeal to multiple generations. “The play still has the
sweetness and kindness qualities as seen in other versions that are geared mainly for children
but simultaneously includes humor and themes that adults will appreciate as well,” says Tucker.
“The show also teaches you that someone else does not determine your destiny but that you
possess that power within yourself. I also appreciate being a part of a production that is
inclusive of all races and is not bound by how roles were casted in the past. These are just a
couple of things that will resonate and feel relatable to all generations.”

Throughout the run of Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella, SCCT is also taking the opportunity
to give back during the holiday season. When attending shows, audience members can donate
gently worn pairs of shoes which will benefit Funds2Orgs, an organization that helps
communities in developing nations build small businesses. The theatre hopes to help facilitate
economic stability for these families abroad and promote a sense of gratitude and generosity in
its youngest patrons.

SCCT to present ‘Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella’ was published in The Greenville Journal on November 9th, 2022.

South Carolina Children’s Theatre (SCCT) is pleased to announce the hiring of Katie O’Kelly as the organization’s new Managing Director. Ms. O’Kelly will co-lead the organization with SCCT’s Artistic Director, Matt Giles, and will begin work at the theatre this September.

“The Board of Directors is delighted to welcome Katie O’Kelly to South Carolina Children’s Theatre,” says SCCT Board Chair Kathryn Freedman. “In her new role as Managing Director, Katie and Artistic Director Matt Giles will maintain the purpose, quality, and vision our patrons expect while adding their own energy and flair. The Board is confident that together they will build on the creative and transformative foundation established by Debbie Bell.”

Ms. O’Kelly hails from Florence, South Carolina and received her B.A. from Wofford College and her Master of Fine Arts at the California Institute of the Arts. She has worked nationally and internationally as a Production Manager, Producer, and Stage Manager for companies like Seattle Repertory Theatre, Spoleto Festival USA, CalArts Center for New Performance, REDCAT, Triad Stage, Charleston Stage Company, and Wuzhen Theatre Festival in Wuzhen, China. She worked as Producing Associate for the 8-time Tony Award winning Best Musical Hadestown through its pre-Broadway runs in Canada and London, and in its current run on Broadway. Most recently, Ms. O’Kelly was the Director of Operations and Production at Triad Stage in Greensboro, North Carolina, where she managed the business side of the organization and its $2.2M operating budget. Ms. O’Kelly has also served as an Adjunct Professor at University of North Carolina Greensboro teaching Stage Management, an Adjunct Professor of Theatre at Greensboro College teaching courses in Stage Management and Production Management, and the Producing Associate for the Tony Award winning Producer, Dale Franzen.

“I couldn’t be more excited to be joining the team at SCCT as its new Managing Director,” says Ms. O’Kelly. “I am passionate about the mission of the theatre and look forward to building upon SCCT’s 35-year legacy and creating more opportunities for young people and their families to engage with the theatre.”

SCCT’s Board of Directors led an exhaustive nationwide search for the role. “The search committee interviewed candidates from across the country, and we were very pleased to find a South Carolina voice to continue leading the theatre,” says Derek Lewis, SCCT board member and leader of the Managing Director search committee.

This September will start a year-long celebration of SCCT’s 35-year anniversary, and with a brand-new theatre facility in the West End, and Ms. O’Kelly now in place to co-lead the organization, the theatre is poised for its next stage of growth. “I am thrilled to welcome Katie to SCCT and to partner with her in leading the theatre,” says Artistic Director, Matt Giles. “She will be a phenomenal addition and her wide array of experience will be a tremendous asset during this period of exciting growth and change at South Carolina Children’s Theatre.”

Looking back on SCCT’s first 35 years, there is much to celebrate, especially for Debbie Bell who has been with the theatre for 34 years, with 23 of those years as Executive Director. Ms. Bell leaves behind an extraordinary legacy for SCCT and the City of Greenville, and says the future is bright for the organization. “Katie O’Kelly is a rising star in the theatrical field,” says Ms. Bell. “She and Matt will make a stellar team. I look forward to seeing how they will work with the Board and the Staff to grow the theatre to new heights. SCCT is in great hands and I personally can’t wait to see what they do next.”

Founded in 1987 by Ric Standridge, South Carolina Children’s Theatre has impacted the lives of children and families in the Upstate community through theatre, educational classes and workshops, and accessible outreach initiatives. Each year, South Carolina Children’s Theatre produces and performs five high quality, live theatre performances featuring children and adults on its Bell MainStage. The theatre also produces three-four additional shows and other special events on its more intimate Younts 2nd Stage. Throughout the year, SCCT offers professional year-round education in the dramatic arts for children ages 3 to 18, as well as educational outreach to low-income and special needs children. For more information about South Carolina Children’s Theatre, please visit: www.scchildrenstheatre.org.

 

Contact info:

Kate Fowler
Director of Development & Marketing
South Carolina Children’s Theatre
[email protected]
Address: 153 Augusta Street, Greenville, SC 29601
Office Phone: (864) 203-1164

 

For their 35^th season approaching this fall 2022, South Carolina Children’s Theatre (SCCT) has announced an exciting slate of shows. “This season is full of joy and hope,” says Matt Giles, SCCT’s Artistic Director. “It truly showcases our commitment to be a theatre producing work for multigenerational audiences, and there is something for each and every age group to enjoy. I’m also proud that not only are we introducing our audiences to some new titles, we are also expanding our directing pool. Three of our directors this season will be making their SCCT MainStage directorial debuts. We continue to strive to produce the best work and collaborate with the best artists.”

For its second full season at the theatre’s new home at 153 Augusta Street, across from Gather GVL, Giles is excited to present both beloved classics and newer productions that may not be as familiar to audiences, but are sure to entertain, challenge, and inspire. “Choosing a season is both exhilarating and challenging,” says Giles. “We work hard to balance a variety of factors, with the goal always being to educate and stimulate the minds and imaginations of young people and their families. And I believe this season does just that.”

From its productions to its educational programming, community events, and more, the team at SCCT is dedicated to ensuring that the theatre is a welcoming space where the Greenville community feels comfortable and at home. “It is so important to us that every child, and every family in Greenville feels welcome at SCCT,” says Debbie Bell, Executive Director. “After operating out of warehouses, government buildings, and eventually the Gunter Theatre at the Peace Center for many years, we are now so proud to invite the community into our new home.”

To make the theatre as accessible as possible for all, SCCT will be introducing a “Pay What You Can” performance for each MainStage show in its 22-23 season. The specific dates/times of those shows will be announced at a later date. “We believe everyone should have access to great theatre. Ticket prices can prevent us from engaging with the widest possible audience, so we are working hard to eliminate that barrier.”

Here is South Carolina Children’s Theatre’s 2022-23 season outlined below, along with additional commentary from Giles about each show.

Tickets for the 2022-23 Season will go on sale on the SCCT website on Wednesday, May 25th.

Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!

Based on the book by Mo Willems
Script by Mo Willems and Mr. Warburton
Lyrics by Mo Willems
Music by Deborah Wicks La Puma
Directed by Connor Vetter
Production dates: September 23, 2022 – October 2, 2022

With a script written by Mo Willems, the creator of the #1 New York Times best-selling, Caldecott Honor award-winning “Pigeon” picture books, and featuring an innovative mix of songs (and feathers), Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! is sure to get everyone’s wings flapping.

Giles: “I am a tremendous fan of Mo Willems’ work. His books are beloved by children and parents alike. This piece is an adaptation of one of my favorite picture books, and it features new and innovative songs. I’m also thrilled to bring Connor Vetter here to direct. She is one of my favorite theatre artists working today, and I can’t wait to see what she does with this piece.”

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella

Music by Richard Rodgers
Lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II
New Book by Douglas Carter Beane
Original Book by Oscar Hammerstein II
Directed by Matt Giles
Production dates: November 18, 2022 – December 11, 2022

This Broadway adaptation of the classic musical features new characters, a hilarious libretto, surprising twists, and an unforgettable score from Rodgers & Hammerstein.

Giles: “While we have technically produced this show before, we haven’t produced this version. The show was given a fresh update in 2013 in preparation for a Broadway run, and the changes are quite lovely. The show feels much more modern, but retains all the great songs from the original version (with a few additions). I’m very much looking forward to bringing this show to our stage, and I think it will be a perfect holiday treat for the whole family.”

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

Adapted by Dwayne Hartford
From the book by Kate DiCamillo
Directed by Jay Briggs
Production dates:  January 27, 2023 – February 5, 2023

Based on Kate DiCamillo’s beautiful novel of the same name, Edward Tulane is the story of an expensive toy rabbit made of china who loses his way home. Edward starts a miraculous journey where he learns what it is to love, what it is to lose that love, and how to find the courage to love again.

Giles: “I am in love with this stunning and heartfelt adaptation of Kate DiCamillo’s book. The show is written in an innovative theatrical style that will engage our audience in new and exciting ways. We are always trying to find stories our audiences may be slightly less familiar with, and ways we can introduce new ways of storytelling. Jay Briggs is one of the most respected directors in the Upstate and I’m thrilled that he will helm this production.”

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show

Created by Jonathan Rockefeller
Based on the books by Eric Carle
Directed by Mia Phillips
Production dates: March 3, 2023 – March 12, 2023

The critically acclaimed production of The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show created by Jonathan Rockefeller features a menagerie of 75 lovable puppets. The production faithfully adapts four stories by author/illustrator Eric Carle: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, 10 Little Rubber Ducks, The Very Busy Spider and of course, the star of the show – The Very Hungry Caterpillar. The Very Hungry Caterpillar has delighted generations of readers since it was first published in 1969 selling more than 48 million copies worldwide. Brown Bear, Brown Bear – now celebrating 50 years – has sold more than 18.2 million copies. 

Giles: “Who hasn’t read Eric Carle’s charming stories? This show will delight audiences of all ages, but particularly the youngest among us. We believe it is crucial to program work for the very young on our MainStage, and this will serve as a brilliant introduction to live theatre. And it will be wonderful to have Mia Phillips’ directing work back on our stage.”

Once on This Island

Book by Lynn Ahrens
Music by Stephen Flaherty
Lyrics by Lynn Ahrens
Directed by Ahsha Daniels
Dates: May 5, 2023 – May 21, 2023

From the Tony Award-winning songwriting team of Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty (Seussical, Ragtime), comes the Olivier Award-winning Once on This Island. This highly original and theatrical Caribbean adaptation of the popular fairy tale, The Little Mermaid, tells the story of one small girl who finds love in a world of prejudice.

Giles: “This is a gorgeous story of love and loss. It was recently revived on Broadway and won a Tony Award in the process. It is unlike anything we have ever produced at SCCT, and I am so very excited to welcome director Ahsha Daniels to help us bring this story to life. I cannot wait to share this piece with our audiences.”

Tickets for Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella and Once On This Island are $25. Tickets for all other shows are $20.

Founded in 1987, South Carolina Children’s Theatre has impacted the lives of children and families in the Upstate community through theatre, educational classes and workshops, and accessible outreach initiatives. Each year, South Carolina Children’s Theatre produces and performs five high quality, live theatre performances featuring children and adults on its Bell MainStage. The theatre also produces three-four additional shows and other special events on its more intimate Younts 2nd Stage. Throughout the year, SCCT offers professional year-round education in the dramatic arts for children ages 3 to 18, as well as educational outreach to low-income and special needs children. For more information about South Carolina Children’s Theatre, please visit: www.scchildrenstheatre.org

Contact info:
Kate Fowler
Director of Development & Marketing
South Carolina Children’s Theatre
[email protected]
Address: 153 Augusta Street, Greenville, SC 29601
Office Phone: (864) 203-1164