Both of my daughters performed at CMT while they were growing up and now as professionals (architect and tech sales) they can present ideas and make compelling remarks in any setting.
CMT is the perfect marriage of arts and education. No child is ever turned away and many come without having had dance or voice training. They are taught by some of the finest in the field, and the result is productions of unbelievable quality. COVID has forced quite a bit of reinvention which is appreciated by the performers and their families alike who form community around them. I'm proud to serve on the board and be part of shaping CMT's next fifty years.
The most impressive thing about this organization is their process of building a show that marries top notch professional talent with every child that walks through their door. Since no child is ever turned away, the diversity of students have the opportunity to learn from each other, grow with each other and learn from a team of professionals that set the bar far higher than the kids could imagine. Yet somehow, the kids meet and exceed those expectations time. This makes the experience as an audience member magical. Led by their brilliant artistic director, Kevin Hauge, this organization produces consistent work of the very highest caliber.
Both my 25-yr. old and 20-yr. old sons went through CMTSJ summer camps in their middle school years. Performing arts camps like CMTSJ's help kids develop poise in front of the public and teach them the value of collaborative work. My family and I continue to patronize the theater's Mainstage (older kids) and Marquee (alumni) productions as a way to see Broadway musicals on the cheap. Making these shows accessible that way, adds value to the community's cultural fabric. And, considering that CMTSJ casts anyone who auditions for all (except the Marquee) productions, the calibre of the finished product really exceeds what one might expect. CMTSJ fills an important niche in the San Jose cultural scene.
What a better way for the children of San Jose to learn to be productive members of the community! Not only that but the self-esteem and sense of pride these kids develop is irriplaceable. Art in any form should be made available to every child! The Children's Musical Theater provides our community with an awesome option, in a historical building to boot!
San Jose Children's Musical Theater is dedicated to the development of youth through performing arts skills using mediums of musical theater productions, performing arts classes, community outreach and other related activities. CMT truly wants every child to experience musical theater. They casts every child who auditions; even special needs performers find a second home at CMT. They offer scholarships to families in need. Although they rely heavily on its dedicated volunteer force, it also has an artistic staff of trained theater professionals guiding each production and a professional administrative staff. Their shows are created with professional directors, choreographers and vocal instructors all of which share their expertise with every child.
All participants enjoy, gain nourishment from, and build their confidence through participation in the arts. Arts education brings out the best in students, capitalizing on their natural curiosity and allowing them to flourish in a varied, stimulating environment. CMT provides all that and more.