South Carolina Children’s Theatre will kick off its 2023-2024 season in September with “Charlotte’s Web” and continue with seven other productions based on popular children’s literature, hit Broadway musicals and more recently written plays.
“One of the things I’m most passionate about is contributing to the canon of theater for young audiences, so I’m pleased to announce that we will be presenting both a regional premiere and a world premiere this season,” said SCCT Artistic Director Matt Giles. “Older students and teens are often overlooked when it comes to children’s theater. I hope to encourage every generation to join us, which is why there truly is something for everyone this season.”
Entering its third season at 153 Augusta St., SCCT is also planning to use both its theater spaces.
“We are so fortunate to have two different theaters in our building in Greenville’s historic West End, and this season highlights the best of both experiences,” said Giles. “Our Bell Stage will feature larger-scale productions with more robust technical demands, while our Younts Stage provides a more up-close, personal experience for our youngest patrons.”
Here’s the full lineup with a word from Giles on each production:
The Bell Stage shows include:
“Charlotte’s Web”
- Sept. 22-Oct. 8
- Based on the book by E.B. White
“Charlotte’s Web is one of the all-time classics of children’s literature. It is a beautiful piece about friendship, while also allowing students to explore concepts of grief and loss. I’m thrilled to welcome back Connor Vetter (of last season’s ‘Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!’) to helm this project.”
“Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins”
- Nov. 17-Dec. 10
- Based on the stories of P.L. Travers and the Walt Disney Film
“So many of us grew up watching Disney’s film adaptation of ‘Mary Poppins,’ and we are so thrilled to present the stage version. It is a rollicking good time, filled with the classic songs you know, as well as a few new additions. And best of all, it centers around two young protagonists. I know this will be a jolly holiday treat for the entire family.”
“The Watsons Go To Birmingham – 1963”
- Jan. 19-Feb. 4, 2024
- Based on the book by Christopher Paul Curtis
“Christopher Paul Curtis’ book ‘The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963,’ is beautifully adapted here by Cheryl West. I remember reading this book as a child in school, and its humor and powerful message impacted me greatly. This story reminds us how, in the midst of great darkness, those close to us can help us find light.”
“PINKALICIOUS the Musical”
- Feb. 23-March 10, 2024
- Based on the book by Elizabeth Kann and Victoria Kann
“I’m delighted to have Lauren Imhoff return to direct ‘PINKALICIOUS the Musical.’ This show is nonstop charm and fun from start to finish, and it celebrates the fact that each of us is unique. There’s so much heart in this story, and everyone will have a great time.”
“Nickelodeon’s The SpongeBob Musical”
- April 26-May 19, 2024
- Based on the series by Stephen Hillenburg
“I couldn’t be more excited to produce this ambitious whale of a musical. Not only does it feature one of the most iconic children’s characters of the past 20 years, it also includes songs from some of the most iconic musicians around. This show is a fun, heartfelt spectacle. Hattie Claire Andres (who works at Seattle Repertory Theatre) is coming to stage this piece and I can’t wait to watch her bring it to life.”
The Younts Stage show include:
“Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse”
- Oct. 20-29
- Based on the books by Kevin Henkes
“Lilly is one of the most iconic characters in children’s literature in the past 25 years, and Kevin Kling’s adaptation of Henkes’ popular book channels all of Lilly’s spunk and pizzazz into this energic production.”
“A World Premiere by Kerry Ferguson”
- Jan. 26-Feb. 4, 2024
“I am very passionate about programming new work and promoting local artists, which is why I asked local playwright Kerry Ferguson, writer of 2021-22’s ‘The Missing Moon,’ to create this exciting new play for SCCT audiences. Kerry’s work is so uplifting and filled with joy, and I can’t wait to see what she has in store for us this season.”
“Dragons Love Tacos”
- March 29-April 14, 2024
- Based on the book by Adam Rubin with illustrations by Daniel Salmieri
“One of the most popular books for young children to come about in recent years, ‘Dragons Love Tacos’ is a funny, taco-filled romp. It’s a story of new friendships that will keep you laughing from start to finish. I’m overjoyed to welcome Betsy Bisson back to the directing chair for this show.”
Going into the 2023-2024 season, SCCT will continue its Pay What You Can performances for each show and introduce discounted flexible ticket packages for patrons interested in seeing more than one show.
Each SCCT season-ticket holder will also receive discounts at a variety of downtown businesses, including:
- Greenville Beer Exchange, Gather GVL – 10% off
- Juice Box Wine Bar, Gather GVL – 10% off
- Pink Bee GVL clothing store – 10% off
- Kate Carlyle gift shop – 10% off, except for original artwork
- A Polished Man – 5% off
“We are excited to partner with these wonderful downtown local businesses to enhance our patrons’ experiences even further,” said SCCT Managing Director Katie O’Kelly. “We know that many families like to shop or dine out before or after our shows, and we thought this would be a great way to encourage our patrons to shop local while also providing some exciting discounts exclusive to our SCCT season ticket holders.”
For more information, visit scchildrenstheatre.org.
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