A Message From Our New Executive Artistic Director

I am thrilled and honored to be tapped to lead Boston Children's Theatre into the future. In 1984, I began my career as a Education Director for Honolulu Theatre for Youth.   It's ironic--and fitting--that I would come full circle after 25 years and 6000 miles to lead one of the nation's oldest and most venerable theatre institutions.  

BCT is no stranger to Bostonians.  In fact, I've found few people who don't have a story to tell me once I mention the name.  But what many Bostonians may not realize is that the Boston Children's Theatre holds a special place even in the hearts of even those who have long ago moved on.  Just the other day I was speaking to an artistic director and colleague of mine who runs a theatre in Arizona.  When I mentioned my new post, she squealed and said "That was the first theatre I ever saw!  I grew up in Chelmsford!"  She then recited every detail of her experience of more than 50 years ago.  The legacy of BCT reaches far and wide.

Within its rich history, Boston Children's Theatre has always been evolving--and it will continue to evolve with the new leadership.  Among the many exciting new endeavors that we are offering are the Pre-Professional Training Program , henceforth known as the Boston Children's Theatre Academy .  Classes taught by theatre professionals give a wide range of opportunities of discovery to all ages--regardless of whether a student is ultimately interested in pursuing a career in the performing arts.  For those seeking a gentle introduction, we offer one-day Centerstage Discovery  workshops based on various disciplines in engaging and current themes.  For the more directed student, we offer a Centerstage Youth and Teens class series and Mini-Musicals that truly challenges and enlightens our students in expanding their skills and knowledge of the theatre craft.  For the hardcore theatre pre-professional, we offer our exciting and unique M aster-Class Series , allowing a rare 'insider' view of pursuing a career in the arts.  We also now offer the new  BCT Studios , private professional instruction in acting and voice and will soon be auditioning for the new Boston Children's Theatre Show Choir, a select group which will showcase performance skills of all types as we perform in and around the city.  

Please read our new class listings in detail--you'll find quite a wide range of new opportunities!

In addition to leading the company, I'm very excited to be directing the upcoming autumn production of The Sound Of Music .  I pledge that this Rogers & Hammerstein classic will become a signature production for BCT; I am determined to further the quality of the experience for both students and audience alike.

Like children, Boston Children's Theatre will be growing in the months to come, but will never stray from its core commitment of maintaining quality and commitment to young artists and audiences of greater Boston.  Professionally, I look toward the challenge and opportunities that lay ahead as I assume the leadership of the 'new' Boston Children's Theatre.  

Personally, the opportunity is even more profound:  as a young adult, my mother used to call me 'Peter Pan' because by her definition, I never wanted to 'grow up.'  

Now it seems, blessedly, she was right...

Burgess Clark

Executive Artistic Director, Boston Children's Theatre