Nashville Children's Theatre (NCT) is one of the oldest continually operating professional children's theatre company in America. It is a member of the Theatre for Young Audiences, the ASSITEJ, and is affiliated with the Actors' Equity Association.
History NCT was established in 1931 by the Junior League of Nashville. Originally called The Nashville Academy Theatre, it opened with the production of "Aladdin and His Wonderful Lamp." NCT has performed at Belcourt Theatre, Vanderbilt University and Belmont University.
Leadership and legacy NCT's legacy includes the profound impact of Scot Copeland, who served as producing artistic director for 30 years until his sudden passing in 2016. Under his leadership, NCT produced nearly 180 plays and achieved national acclaim, including being named one of the top five children's theatres in the U.S. by Time in 2004. Copeland was celebrated for his artistic vision, nurturing of young talent, and dedication to creating meaningful theatrical experiences for young audiences. His work culminated in notable achievements like the world premiere of Jack’s Tale: A Mythic Mountain Musical Adventure in collaboration with the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Awards
Award/Recognition OrganizationYearFive Best Children's Theatre Companies in the U.S.TIME Magazine20042009 - No. 1 Performing Arts Organization - Ranked by number of performancesNashville Business Journal2009Four of NCT's 2009 Productions were ranked in NBJ's 2009 Top 25 Musical Theater/eventsNashville Business Journal2009Best Local Theater CompanyNashville Scene2010Best Live PerformanceNashville Parent2010Ranked #2 Performing Arts Organization in Nashville by total attendanceNashville Business Journal2013Ranked #4 & #5 Top Attended Music/Theatre events in NashvilleNashville Business Journal2013Ranked # 2 Performing Arts Organization based on attendance totalsNashville Business Journal2014Ranked #2 Performing Arts Organization based on attendance totalsNashville Business Journal2015Arts & Culture 12th Awards Winner12th & Broad2016Best Local Theatre CompanyThe Tennessean's Toast of Music City2015Ranked #3 Performing Arts Organization based on attendance totalsNashville Business Journal2016Ranked #1 & #2 Top Attended Performing Arts Events in NashvilleNashville Business Journal2016Ranked Top Ten Entertainment and Performance Venues in Nashville based on attendance totalsNashville Business Journal2016Best Professional TheatreBroadway World Nashville2018Theaterati of the Year - Ernie NolanMidwinter's First Night2018
Affiliations
AffiliationYearANE (Association of Nonprofit Executives)2001ASSITEJ International (International Assn of Theatre for Children and Young People)1964Center for Nonprofit Management Excellence Network1999Actors' Equity Association1998Nashville Chamber of Commerce1996Association of Junior Leagues International1931Nashville Arts Coalition1994Nashville Area Association for Young Children (NAAYC)2006Metro Arts Commission1989Association of Fundraising Professionals - Member2008Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce2004Tennesseans for the Arts1990The National Association for Professional Theatres for Young Audiences (TYA/USA)1990Hands On Network2007
References
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