For many in Missoula, being in a Missoula Children’s Theater traveling show is quite normal. Whether it was when two directors came to your school, or a week-long production during a break, many children in this town have had the chance to learn if they like theater or not through this opportunity.
Though some may think that this is a pretty unique experience for students and youth in Missoula or at least just Montana, this is so far from true. The little red trucks that line the Community Theater parking lot for around 6 months out of the year travel hundreds of miles. Not to mention overseas.

This traveling children’s theater is actually the biggest in the world and has been running for over 50 years. Throughout those years they have reached almost 1,100 communities throughout many countries. Not only is this an opportunity for those in the United States, but also those who are in different parts of the world. Last year, the tours were able to go to Italy and, in the past, have even made it to Japan in order to give the wonderful introduction of theater to children everywhere.
For those who aren’t 100% sure as to what these tour shows are in the first place, they are around 40 minute long shows of classic fairy tales with their own interpretation and twist. They have strategically layed out characters which accommodate for all ages interested. There are usually roles like bumble bees, dessert penguins, or flowers so that children of really young ages are able to be included and have fun on a stage. There are also roles for children closer to 10 year old age groups of characters, and then main characters in the stories.
On a personal account, I am able to say that these shows are one of my favorite memories of extra curricular activities in my life. Now, though I do have a very outgoing personality and now have a love for theater, I can say confidently that doing these shows nurtured a sense of community I needed. Not only do I now have a great connection with people at MCT, but have formed friendships with people that I have now known for over 5 years due to the experience.
Though eighth grade is usually the cut off for these shows, it brings wonderful opportunities for kids to go into theater in their high school career. Not only is this good for the individuals themself, but it also promotes theater as a whole, in a community or in a school setting.
One of our students here at Sentinel who is very heavily involved in our own theater department recalls how doing the traveling shows as a kid grew their confidence. They said it was a great way for all kinds of kids to be included at their schools and have fun with their friends as well as make new ones. Another selling point is the fact that when the shows go on tour, all over the world, there is no price for the students.
This is especially important because it gives the opportunity to all kids who want to do it and makes it very accessible. Other works of these shows is that they are reliant on multiple people, therefore it creates a wonderful sense of teamwork. This is a great starting ground for kids to feel welcome and learn how to work together. It is also a moment where many kids are able to be silly and find an outlet to explore a growing identity.
Another Spartan who didn’t stay in theater, says that, even though it turned out that theater wasn’t their thing, they still gained more than they thought they would. They recall that trying out for and being in the show pushed them to be out of their comfort zone, as they tended to be more shy.
As it has been stated over and over again, this opportunity is so far from a small moment in Missoula schools and theaters. These productions provide many people with an outlet and opportunity to grow as a person and try new things. Being in the hometown of such an organization’s roots, not only is an amazing thing, but also can be used as an opportunity to use it for all that its worth. The Missoula Children’s Theater traveling shows are truly magical and a blessing for all those who have been able to take part.