The Missoula Children’s Theatre is an arts outreach and intensive drama experience for regional children interested in learning about theatre and acting.  Last year, the group put on a performance of Alice in Wonderland with over 50 local students from the Oneida County School District.  The year before, a similar number of students  were involved in the production of The Emperors New Clothes.  The plays are professionally costumed and directed by the Children’s Theatre, which is an actor-focused organization that spends a week or so in a school working on the play with student actors, stagehands, assistants, and others.  During that week, classes are held to teach all students some of the arts and public speaking concepts at the heart of the production.  

This year, an audition will be held for the Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT) production of SNOW WHITE & THE SEVEN DWARFS on Monday, January 27 at the NEW MES Gym from 3:45pm to 5:45pm. According to information provided by Callie Werk, “Those auditioning should arrive after school and plan to stay for the full two hours. Some of the cast members will be asked to stay for a rehearsal immediately following the audition.  A preregistration took place on Wednesday, Jan. 15 at 5pm by registering online.  All those who got a confirmed spot, will audition for the specific rolls on Monday, Jan. 27th.”  

The process, from initial casting to performance, is a bit of a whirlwind.  In past years, the results have been amazing, as a large group of young actors transitions from nervous and shy to fully engaged in a fun and lively production.  That week does require concentrated effort and focus, but seems well worth it.  

Among the roles to be cast are Snow White, her friends Phineas, Foxy and Fernando, Queen, seven Dwarfs, the Forest animals, Black Forest Creatures, a Magic Mirror, Bats, Henchmen and the King.  Students, ages Kindergarten through 5th grade, are encouraged to audition.  No advance preparation is necessary.  Assistant Directors will also be cast to aid in rehearsals throughout the week, and to take on essential backstage responsibilities.

The Missoula Children’s Theatre touring productions are complete with costumes, scenery, and props. MCT Tour Actor/Directors will conduct rehearsals throughout the week from 3:45pm to 8:00pm each day.

SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS will be presented on Saturday, February 1st at 3pm and 5:30pm at the NEW MES Gymnasium. The Missoula Children’s Theatre residency in Malad is brought to you by MES PTO with support from Hess Pumice.

For more information, call Callie Werk 406-289-0614.