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The Salina Community Theatre deserves a standing ovation.

This time, it's not for a well-executed show but for SCT's education programs.

Gary Demuth reported on changes to SCT's youth and education programs in Friday's encore! section. The theater's Salina Theatre for Young People is now the Center for Theatre Arts. The changes go further than just the name. In addition to acting classes, the theater offers singing and dance classes for ages 6 to adult. Students can get help on how to prepare for auditions. Master classes will also be offered. Future offerings could include classes on technical theater and lighting design.

Education director John Henningsen has been working with local librarians on using play production to get children interested in reading. He hopes to form a senior citizens troupe to perform vintage radio plays. He also wants to work with teens who want to pursue acting careers, by helping them with developing resumes, portfolios and audition materials.

When we read Demuth's story on SCT, our first thought was, "Wow!"

Youth and education programs have been strong for a long time at the theater. It takes forward thinking for the theater to not just sit on its successes and to develop a swath of new programing. Even good programs need to be refreshed and improved, and that's what SCT has done.

We have heard worries in the past that SCT appeals to a limited segment of the community. The expansion of programs demonstrates that they are trying to attract a wide variety of people. People interested in music, dance and acting have a place at the theater. Children with big imaginations, who love to read or who are interested in light boards and pulleys all have a place at the theater. People who like seeing good shows have a seat at the theater, too.

Salinans should put stage fright aside and try out these new programs or, at the very least, attend an SCT production. They should also consider giving to the theater's $4 million expansion. With improved facilities, the strength of the theater's programs can only grow. That strength benefits our children, our economy and our quality of life.

Bravo to Henningsen, Executive Director Michael Spicer and the staff and volunteers at SCT. Your vision means there will be ovations for years to come.

-- Amy Adams, Copy Editor

Member of the Editorial Board

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