Our Mission
Children’s Theatre of Annapolis (CTA) has been offering high quality theatre arts education and productions in central Maryland since 1959.
We’re a community-based, 501(c)3 non-profit organization that is dedicated to nurturing the growth and development of the love of theatre in children ages 5 to 18, through participation in all aspects of the theatrical experience, including performance, workshops, technical elements, community involvement, and apprenticeships.
CTA provides a positive circle of influence through friendships that foster self-esteem, creativity, commitment, teamwork, appreciation, and dedication. CTA serves the child and the community.
CTA is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Tax ID: 23-7003491
Learn More About CTA’s Impact
History of CTA
Children’s Theatre of Annapolis (CTA) was founded by Jane Young Davis, Lydia Nolan and Martha Wright with a production of “Hansel and Gretel” in 1959. Since that time, the nonprofit children’s theatre has grown to produce three mainstage shows (two musicals and a play) per year and offer a myriad performing and technical theatre educational opportunities. “Alice in Wonderland” is the most-performed show in CTA’s history, having been produced six times.
For years, CTA productions were performed at local elementary schools and, later, at Anne Arundel Community College. In 2007, under the direction of then-Vice President Bill Smith, a local architect, CTA broke ground on its own theatre facility in Bay Head Park. The theatre opened in 2008 with a production of “Peter Pan.”
In 2018, CTA was proud to be the first children’s theatre in the region to win the prestigious Ruby Griffith Award for All-Around Production Excellence for its production of “Beauty and the Beast.” The following year, CTA was named Best Theatre Company in Annapolis in The Capital’s 2019 Readers Choice Awards, and in 2020, the theatre was awarded Best Nonprofit in Annapolis from What’s Up? Media.
CTA co-founder Jane Young Davis
Theatre architect Bill Smith, CTA Vice President (in memoriam), during the theatre’s construction
Past Productions
2020-Present
2022-2023
- Matilda
- Peter & The Starcatcher
- Once Upon A Mattress
2021-2022
- The Addams Family
- Robin Hood
- Annie
2020-2021
- She Kills Monsters: Young Adventurer’s Edition
- Disney’s Frozen Jr.
2019-2020
- Tarzan
- The Hobbit
2018-2019
- Peter Pan
- The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
- Chitty Chitty Bang Bang JR.
2017-2018
- Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
- Madagascar, a Musical Adventure JR.
2016-2017
- Seussical the Musical
- Treasure Island
- James & the Giant Peach JR.
2015-2016
- Haphazardly Ever After
- Mary Poppings
- Sleeping Beauty
2014-2015
- The Canterville Ghost
- Wizard of Oz
- Bugsy Malone JR.
2013-2014
- Snow White
- Shrek the Musical
- Pippi Longstocking
2012-2013
- Get Smart
- Legally Blonde
- The Little Mermaid JR.
2011-2012
- The Witches: A Tribute to Roald Dahl
- Grease, The School Version
- Alice in Wonderland JR.
2010-2011
- Say What: Play Word and Word Plays
- Once Upon a Mattress
- A Night at the Wax Museum
She Kills Monsters: Young Adventurers Edition (2021)
Wendy Hickock Photography
Alice in Wonderland (2012)
Guys & Dolls (2004)
2010-Present
2009-2010 (50th Anniversary Year)
- Brundibar
- The Music Man
- Willie Wonka JR.
2008-2009
- Peter Pan
- The Adventures of Dr. Doolittle
2007-2008
- Disney’s Beauty and the Beast
- Annie JR.
2006-2007
- Bye Bye Birdie
- Aladdin JR.
2005-2006
- The Wizard of Oz
- Honk! JR.
- Seussical the Musical
2004-2005
- Guys and Dolls
- Charlotte’s Web
2003-2004
- Alice in Wonderland
- Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
2002-2003
- Snow White
- Cinderella
2001-2002
- The Sound of Music
- The Emperor’s New Clothes
2000-2001
- The King and I
- Oliver
1990-2000
1999-2000
- State Fair
- The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
1998-99
- Once Upon a Mattress
- Pinocchio
1997-98
- Babes in Arms
1996-97
- Babes in Toyland
- How to Success in Business Without Really Trying
1995-96
- Alice in Wonderland
- Fabulous Fable Factory
1994-1995
- The Mystery of Edwin Drood
- Snow White Goes West
1993-1994
- Anything Goes
1992-93
- Calamity Jane
- The Emperor’s New Clothes
1991-92
- Wizard of Oz
- Babes in Toyland
1990-91
- How to Eat Like a Child
- Lil Abner
The Wizard of Oz (1991)
The Hobbit (1987)
1980-1990
1989-90
- Annie, Get Your Gun
- Wind in the Willows
1988-89
- Anne of Green Gables
- Pinocchio
1987-88
- Cinderella
- The Hobbit
1986-87
- Bamum
- Alice in Wonderland
1985-86
- H.M.S Pinafore
- The Wizard of Oz
- The Velveteen Rabbit
1984-1985 (25th Anniversary Year)
- Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
- Peter Pan
- Encore
1983-1984
- Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in the Black Forest
- Babes in Toyland
1982-83
- Fabulous Fable Factory
- 45 Minutes from Broadway
- An Evening of Milne
1981-82
- Annie, Get Your Gun
- The Sound of Music
1980-81
- The Velveteen Rabbit
- The Wizard of Oz
1970-1980
1979-80
- Oliver
- Tom Sawyer
1978-79
- No Major Productions
1977-78
- A Day at the Flicks or Beware of Greeks Bearing Gifts
1976-77
- The Ghosts on Green Street
- Sing Ho for a Prince
1975-76
- Maggie Flynn
- Alice in Wonderland
1974-1975
- Babes in Toyland
1973-1974
- 1920s Musical Review
1972-73
- Cinderella
- Peter Pan
1971-72
- The Emperor’s Daughters
- Winnie the Pooh
1970-71
- N-24 from Mars
- Hansel and Gretel
N-24 From Mars (1970)
Hansel & Gretel (1959)
1959-1970
1969-70
- The Little Princess
- Rip Van Winkle
1968-69
- Harkee the Cat
- Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs
1967-68
- Cinderella
- The Unwicked Witch
1966-67
- Kalau and the Magic Numbers
- Alice in Wonderland
1965-66
- Huckleberry Finn
- Prospero’s Magic Cape
1964-1965
- The Stolen Prince
1963-1964
- The Ghost of Mr. Penny
- The Trouble with Tricks
1962-63
- Old King Cole
1961-62
- N-24 from Mars
1960-61
- The Witch’s Lullaby
1959-60
- Hansel and Gretel
People
Executive Board
Michelle Bruno
President
Ashley Gilbert
Vice President
Chair, DEIA Committee
Loy Vélez-Suárez
Treasurer
Martin Egna
Secretary
Ally Tierney
Executive Producer
Board of Directors
LaVonne Taliaferro-Bunch
Board Member
Eric Kempton
Board Member
John Lyons
Board Member
Dylan Roche
Board Member
Amy Schropp
Board Member
Emily Sergo
Board Member
Wendy Uehlinger
Board Member
Advisory Board
Heather Bagnall/Maryland State Delegate For District 33C
Advisory Board Member
Natalie DeVries
Advisory Board Member
Catherine Hollerbach
Advisory Board Member
Tracy Rinehart
Advisory Board Member
Jim Tierney
Advisory Board Member
Staff
Latest News
Growing Our Reach
Capital Campaign
The blueprints for the upcoming Annex buildout
CTA’s capital campaign, Growing Our Reach, is raising the funds needed to renovate and expand the original annex building. In order to reach more children from all backgrounds, CTA needs room to build that growth.
Our main theatre is a 276-seat theatre that holds three mainstage shows a year, while the annex is a rundown building (it used to be a garage for large military trucks) that has no insulation and is still heated by propane. At this time, this annex building is our education center that we use for all of our theatre education classes year-round.
CTA’s goal is to make the current annex into an environmentally controlled three-room building that would allow us to build our education program and extend our outreach to underserved families. With this new annex, our students will learn dancing, acting and music in a safe and temperature-controlled building.
The largest space will be a black box theatre that will seat more than 100 patrons. This smaller theater space will allow CTA to offer a wider diversity of productions and performances opportunities for young actors. With this fully functioning theater space, CTA plans to open it up for other community groups to use, as CTA’s Black Box will be the only one available for general rental in all of Anne Arundel County. We also plan to increase the opportunities for teen shows and workshops that work better in a smaller space.
If you’re interesting in contributing to or sponsoring CTA’s Growing Our Reach campaign, please contact Executive Director April Forrer at aprilforrer@childrenstheatreofannapolis.org.
FAQs
Tickets
How can I buy tickets?
We encourage patrons to buy tickets via TicketLeap.
How much are tickets?
For the current season:
- Adults: $18
- Seniors (60 and over): $15
- Kids (12 and under): $15
- Military (with valid ID): 15
Do you offer season subscriptions?
Yes, a season subscription gets you tickets for all of the season’s shows at a reduced rate. Learn more on the Tickets section of the website.
Are there any discounts?
Groups of 10 or more can purchase $13 tickets when all members of the group are attending the same performance. These tickets are not exchangeable or refundable. Season subscribers also receive a discount for each show.
What are box office hours?
CTA’s box office is staffed by one part-time staff member. Please be patient, as there are not currently regular box office hours. Purchasing tickets is best done online at cta.ticketleap.com; however, if you need to contact the box office manager, email boxoffice@childrenstheatreofannapolis.orgor call 410-757-2281 and leave a voicemail.
Does my infant/toddler need a ticket?
CTA does not have a minimum age for attending a production. However, due to fire code regulations, all patrons, regardless of age(including lap infants), must have a ticket.
How do I redeem tickets I won in an auction or raffle?
Email boxoffice@childrenstheatreofannapolis.org with the organization you won the tickets from, how many tickets you won, and the requested date and time of the show you’d like to see.
Can I exchange my tickets for another date?
CTA is able to exchange tickets for another date on a case-by-case basis. The exchange must be done at least 24 hours in advance and is subject to seating availability at the requested show.
What happens if I miss a performance?
Tickets are nonrefundable and cannot be exchanged after the performance you missed. If you think you cannot attend a performance to which you’ve purchased tickets, email boxoffice@childrenstheatreofannapolis.org as far in advance as possible to see if tickets are available for another date.
What happens if I’m late for a performance?
We understand that being late is unavoidable sometimes. If you know that you’re going to be late, please call the box office at 410-757-2281, as it is staffed hour one prior to showtime. When you arrive, ushers will seat you during a break in scenes to minimize distractions to the audience and performers. Latecomer seating is at the discretion of the House Manager. In the case of a sold-out performance, tickets will be held until curtain time before being resold if the box office has not been alerted that you’re running late.
What happens if the show is canceled?
During inclement weather or unsafe road conditions, CTA may cancel a performance or event. In the event of a cancellation, an email will be sent to all ticket-holders, and posts will be made on our social media channels. If a performance is canceled, ticket-holders may reschedule their tickets for a different performance (subject to availability) or receive a refund.
Can I get a refund for unused tickets?
Tickets are nonrefundable. CTA graciously accepts the donation of unused tickets to resell to sold-out performances.
Can I book a field trip to a show?
CTA offers one to two shows during school hours for each production. Title 1 schools are given priority. Home-schooled students can buy tickets for $5. To book a field trip or a home-school student ticket, email boxoffice@childrenstheatreofannapolis.org
Attending a Show
Do you sell concessions?
Yes, the concessions stand in the lobby sells water, sparkling water, soda, juice, and snacks such as chips, popcorn, and candy. Every item is $1, and the proceeds go to the Miriam Wolfe Scholarship Fund and other special projects. However, we ask that you refrain from eating or drinking anything other than water in the actual theatre.
Is there parking nearby?
There is a parking lot adjacent to CTA with plenty of parking spots.
Do you have a coat or stroller check?
No, we do not have a coat check. We may be able to store a stroller in the box office, based on space.
What is your photo policy?
Please refrain from taking photos or video during all performances, as it violates the contract with the production’s licensing agency and can distract or risk the safety of the performers.
Is the theatre handicap-accessible?
Yes, the theatre is handicap-accessible. We also offer listening devices for hearing-impaired audience members.
The first matinee of every show run is ASL-interpreted and sensory-friendly. To reserve seats in front of the ASL interpreter, email boxoffice@childrenstheatreofannapolis.org.
Is the theatre available for rental?
Yes, on a case-by-case basis. Please email info@childrenstheatreoannapolis.org.
How many seats are in the theatre?
276—and there’s not a bad seat in the house.
Can my group take a tour of the theatre?
Yes, on a case-by-case basis. To arrange a tour, please contact shows@childrenstheatreoannapolis.org.
Classes, Camps + Workshops
How old does a child have to be to take a class?
Education opportunities generally start at age 5.
Who teaches the classes?
CTA hires highly qualified local performers, theatre professionals and educators to teach its classes.
Are scholarships or payment plans available for tuition?
Yes. CTA believes strongly that theatre education should be accessible to all, regardless of income level. To discuss scholarships and payment plans, contact aprilforrer@childrenstheatreofannapolis.org.
How can I cancel a class registration?
Auditioning + Being Cast
How old does a child have to be to audition?
For the 2022-23 season, all shows are open to ages 8-18. Auditioners must be between those ages as of the audition date, as well as not yet have graduated from high school.
Does my child need to have prior drama experience?
No! We welcome auditioners of all experience and skill levels.
Does it cost anything to audition for a show?
No, auditioning is free.
Does it cost anything to be in a show?
All cast members must pay CTA’s annual registration fee of $20, as well as a $150 production fee, which goes to support the show’s expenses.
Are scholarships or payment plans available?
Yes. CTA believes strongly that theatre education should be accessible to all, regardless of income level. To discuss scholarships and payment plans, contact aprilforrer@childrenstheatreofannapolis.org.
When are rehearsals?
Generally speaking, CTA rehearses from 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and 1-5 p.m. Sundays for the specified rehearsal periods. Not all cast members will be called to each rehearsal, with the exception of tech week (the final week before the show), during which all cast members will be required to be at rehearsals (generally, 5:30-9:30 p.m.). Additionally rehearsals may be called at the discretion of the show’s director.
Volunteering + Other Questions
How can I volunteer with CTA?
CTA is always looking for volunteers! For more information, visit the Volunteer section of the website. All volunteers age 18+ must pass a background check through Anne Arundel County Parks and Recreation.
Can I support CTA in another way?
You can also support CTA by making a donation, purchasing an advertisement in a show program, donating to and attending our annual fundraiser or sponsoring a show, season or event
Does CTA donate tickets to silent auctions or raffles?
Yes, on a case-by-case basis, CTA can offer up to four tickets to local nonprofit organizations or K-12 schools as a donation. To inquire, email aprilforrer@childrenstheatreofannapolis.org.
Does CTA host birthday parties?
CTA currently does not have the capacity or staff to host birthday parties.
Is CTA a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit?
Yes, CTA is registered with the IRS as a tax-exempt 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. Our tax ID number is 23-7003491
Miriam Wolfe Scholarship
The CTA Miriam Wolfe Scholarship was established in 1989 in memory of CTA alumna Miriam Wolfe (September 26, 1968-December 21, 1988), who died in the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland. Miriam’s mother, Rosemary Mild, often participates in the scholarship selection process and gives the winners an autographed copy of her book, “Miriam’s World–and Mine.” The scholarship is supported by concession sales at CTA events throughout the year.
2024 Scholarship Application Coming Next Year.
Scholarship FAQ
Who Can Apply?
Graduating high school seniors may participate by submitting the application and any other supporting materials to the scholarship committee.
Requirements
- Must be a high school senior
- Submit a completed application, including transcripts or high school counselor signature.
- The use of additional pages is accepted. Do not include personal resumes. Provide one (1) letter of recommendation from an adult individual associated with the performing arts. The recommendation CANNOT be from a relative of the applicant.
- Have a grade point average of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
- Plan to be involved in the performing arts at the college level. This includes both artistic and technical aspects of the performing arts.
- Please note: This scholarship does not require the applicant to major in the performing arts in order to be eligible.
- Submit the completed application, essays, and letter of recommendation electronically to scholarships@childrenstheatreofannapolis.org by stated deadline of May 1, 2023.
Please note:
- To qualify for consideration of this scholarship, all criteria must be met and the information provided on the application must be complete. This includes the verified GPA and a signature from a school counselor or a current official high school transcript.
- By submitting the application, the applicant acknowledges that he/she is no longer eligible to participate in CTA productions as a student performer as of the end of the current school year.
Who Makes the Decisions?
The CTA board establishes a scholarship committee annually for the purpose of grading and selecting prospective recipients. The scholarship committee is comprised of three CTA board members and three outside panelists. These non-CTA members are selected carefully, so they do not have any connection to the applicants.
How are the selections made?
The applications are read and graded carefully using the following system:
- 30 points for contributions to CTA (both performing and technical)
- 15 points for other participation in performing arts (performing, technical or support role)
- 10 points for training in performing arts or a technical aspect of the arts (school, community, private)
- 10 points for special honors or awards (school or community)
- 5 points for other activities (not in the performing arts) that you have participated in during grade 9-12. (Community, church, school, sports, etc.)
- 15 points for a 200-word-or-less essay: How has CTA influenced who you are today?
- 15 points for a 200-word-or-less essay: How do you imagine the performing arts will continue to be a part of your future?
Total possible points = 100
Applicants must grade at 80 points or better to be considered for the award.
How much is rewarded? CTA will awards between one and three scholarships one for $1,500 and the others for $1,000. In the case of a point tie, the funds will be equally divided.
What happens if no one wins?
In the event that no applicant meets the required 80 points, the funds will be held for future years.
Previous Scholarship Recipients
- 2023-Ryan McCandless, Emily Egna, Cate Weiss
- 2022—Andrew Wilson, Haven Hitchcock, Liam O’Toole
- 2021–Drew Sharpe, Arden Tierney
- 2020–Annabelle Cotton, Matthew Beagan
- 2019–Madison Sokolowski, Dave Martinek
- 2018–Hannah Wilson
- 2017–Matthew Lucente, Ella Green
- 2016–Alexandra Baca, Geneva Croteau
- 2015–Elizabeth Steele, Colleen Coleman
- 2014–Maddie Poole, Cassidy Hamilton
- 2013–Austin Heemstra, Nick Brice
- 2012–Jessica Straub, Mark Hollerbach
- 2011–Justin Binnix, Zachary Konick
- 2010–Molly Dukes, Steve Mangum
- 2009–RJ Pavel, Katherine RIddle
- 2008–Lindsay Espinosa, Bethany Lamolinara
- 2007–Chris Engler, Josh Konick
- 2006–Katie Gardner, Jillian Foley
- 2005–Andrew Lincoln, Brittany Taylor
- 2004–Jamie Boyle, Elena Crall
- 2003–Kerry Deitrick, Eileen Keck, Angie Boss
- 2002–Carrie Ponder, Brian Hoffman
- 2001–Hayley Clark
- 2000–Kathleen Scott
- 1999–Robin Beers, Katy Smith
- 1998–Josh McGuire
- 1997–Christopher Dahl
- 1996–Justin Brill
- 1995–Karen Zucco
- 1994–Susan Woda
- 1993–Tiffany Baldwin
- 1992–Lauren Kirby
- 1991–Karl-Erik Johnson
- 1990–Nicole Roblyer
Click here to open CTA’s DEIA brochure.
CTA’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility
Children are at the center of everything we do at Children’s Theatre of Annapolis (CTA). This means CTA continually celebrates a diverse community of people and welcome all races, ethnicities, religions, genders, gender identities or expressions, sexual orientations, disabilities, ages, and veterans.
CTA and its Diversity and Inclusion Committee strive for inclusive casts, audiences, staff, Board members, volunteers, educational workshops and classes and teaching artists. CTA cherishes these differences and we realize that we flourish because of these individual perspectives and voices.
CTA’s Board of Directors and staff are dedicated to creating a culturally relevant, diverse and inclusive theatre experience, recognizing and valuing diversity in all forms: ethnicity, family structure, gender identity, national origin, race, religion, spirituality, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, disabilities or veteran status.
CTA believes in promoting inclusivity and diversity in our workshops, teaching staff and productions, which reflects the increasing multicultural and global society in which we live. We are committed to attracting and sustaining Board members who support and affirm these values.
CTA will promote diversity and inclusion because these values reflect a basic human right to justice and equality of opportunity for all, as well as create a safe space for the creative expression for all children.
CTA’s Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility
Children are at the center of everything we do at Children’s Theatre of Annapolis (CTA). This means CTA continually celebrates a diverse community of people and welcome all races, ethnicities, religions, genders, gender identities or expressions, sexual orientations, disabilities, ages, and veterans.
CTA and its Diversity and Inclusion Committee strive for inclusive casts, audiences, staff, Board members, volunteers, educational workshops and classes and teaching artists. CTA cherishes these differences and we realize that we flourish because of these individual perspectives and voices.
CTA’s Board of Directors and staff are dedicated to creating a culturally relevant, diverse and inclusive theatre experience, recognizing and valuing diversity in all forms: ethnicity, family structure, gender identity, national origin, race, religion, spirituality, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, disabilities or veteran status.
CTA believes in promoting inclusivity and diversity in our workshops, teaching staff and productions, which reflects the increasing multicultural and global society in which we live. We are committed to attracting and sustaining Board members who support and affirm these values.
CTA will promote diversity and inclusion because these values reflect a basic human right to justice and equality of opportunity for all, as well as create a safe space for the creative expression for all children.