This past year was a season of growth and renewal for Arlington Children's Theatre (ACT). 

In September, ACT welcomed our new Artistic Director, Emily Garven, whose youth-centered vision for ACT built on three pillars: agency, community, and transformative learning. 

Under Emily’s leadership, ACT expanded educational opportunities for our ACTors both on stage and in the classroom. Young performers trained directly with current Broadway professionals through a new Masterclass workshop series and stretched their range through expanded class offerings in subjects like improv and dance. ACT partnered with Arlington Center for the Arts to offer school vacation week programming featuring theatre games, creative exercises, and rehearsal time leading up to a final performance. And ACT’s five season productions and three summer shows gave our young artists the chance to step into the spotlight, building confidence, craft, and community.

Behind the scenes, ACT's Strategic Planning Committee has been imagining where the organization should head over the next three to five years. The committee, composed of current and alumni family members, staff, and board members, has been listening to feedback from four community, taking an honest look at what's working and where we can grow, and helping shape a clear, shared vision for ACT's future.

ACT was selected by Boston University’s Graduate Arts Administration program as a consulting client. The outcome of this project was a 35th Anniversary Development Plan supported by integrated marketing, communications, and public relations strategies, which you will see rolling out across the coming year. 

This spring, ACT was thrilled to welcome two students from Boston Green Academy for hands-on, six-week internships. Edwin and Javan brought fresh perspectives and ideas to our community while building valuable work-based skills. A big shoutout to them both for all their work on behalf of ACT! And keep an eye out for Edwin next season, when he returns as a teaching assistant as a member of our creative staff.

We celebrated the start of the summer with the exciting announcement of a new partnership with Lesley Ellis School that gives ACT a long-awaited home for rehearsals, classes, and performances. This partnership marks the beginning of a new chapter for both of our organizations; one rooted in a shared commitment to inspiring young people through creativity, education, and the transformative power of the arts.

As we look ahead to our 35th anniversary season, ACT is on solid footing and more focused than ever on our mission: helping young people grow as artists, leaders, and engaged members of their community.