'Theater for Young Audiences': Classic stories brought to life for young learners

Submitted by Kelly Lang Buckley

Director of Development & Marketing

Niagara Arts and Cultural Center

The Niagara Arts and Cultural Center is proud to announce the launch of its newest program, the "Theater for Young Audiences Series," which is designed specifically for elementary students and young families. This engaging program, new to the Niagara Region, provides teachers, school administrators and caregivers the opportunity to enrich their children’s’ lives with unforgettable theatrical experiences.

The inaugural production of the series will feature a captivating rendition of the timeless Dr. Seuss classic, "Cat in the Hat.” This beloved tale will come to life on stage at the NACC for six matinee performances at 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, June 8-23, plus two additional school time performances: at 10 a.m. Thursday and Friday, June 13-14.

The "Theater for Young Audiences Series" offers elementary classes the opportunity to experience live theatrical adaptations of books commonly taught in classrooms. By immersing students into the magical world of literature, this series intends to deepen their understanding of stories and themes while fostering a love for reading and storytelling.

Each performance is tailored to accommodate the attention spans of young students, with show lengths ranging from 45 to 75 minutes. The inaugural series will include such American childhood classics as: 

•“Cat in the Hat,” June 8-23, grades K-2

•“Peter Pan,” Sept. 28-Oct. 13, grades: 2-5

•“A Charlie Brown Christmas,” Dec. 7-22, grades: K-4

•“James and The Giant Peach,” March 29-April 13, 2025, grades: 3-5 

NACC Executive Director and TYA program founder Kevin Leary said, “As a dad of two young children, I know firsthand how important opportunities are for kids as they grow and learn. Some kids learn well by listening to stories, and others do well with instruction and reading. But most all kids respond to watching information come to life. When you bring your students to our ‘Theatre for Young Audiences’ series, you spark imagination and exploration in your students’ minds while adding a depth of understanding to stories and themes you teach in the classroom.”

Booking for the "Cat in the Hat" and TFY performances is now officially open at www.theNACC.org/Tickets or by calling 76-282-7530, ext. 104.

The Niagara Arts and Cultural Center is located at 1201 Pine Ave., Niagara Falls; and online at www.thenacc.org and www.facebook.com/TheNACC, www.instagram.com/niagara_cultural, Youtube.com/NACCNews.