News Summary
The Knoxville Children’s Theatre has officially acquired The Foundry at World’s Fair Park for $4 million, marking a new chapter for the arts community. This acquisition allows KCT to expand their facilities and offerings, transitioning from their current location to a more accommodating space. Planned renovations promise to create a vibrant hub for young artists, with two theaters and educational classrooms. The first show at the new venue, an adaptation of ‘The Sword in the Stone,’ is set to open on April 4, 2025, heralding an exciting future for children’s theater in Knoxville.
Exciting New Chapter for Knoxville’s Children’s Theatre
In a bustling moment for the arts community, the beloved Knoxville Children’s Theatre (KCT) has officially acquired The Foundry at World’s Fair Park for a whopping $4 million. Mark your calendars—it was February 14, 2025, that this monumental deal went through, making it a truly remarkable Valentine’s Day for the theater and the city.
A New Home for Young Stars
The Foundry, which has been a favorite wedding and events venue for the last 32 years, is now set to be transformed into a vibrant hub for young artists. KCT is ready to roll up their sleeves and start moving in from their current space at 109 E Churchwell Ave. Get ready for a delightful surprise as they prepare for their very first show in this new location—an adaptation of the enchanting story, “The Sword in the Stone,” which is slated to open on April 4, 2025.
A Vision Born in 2008
Founded in 2008 by a vision for youth in the performing arts, KCT has provided a stage for children aged 8 to 18 to shine in their professional plays. This purchase will be KCT’s third venue and is designed to provide aspiring young actors with a more accommodating space for their rich, creative experiences.
Expansive Facilities Await
The Foundry boasts impressive plans for phased renovations that will work to incorporate both age-old charm and modern design. Future visitors can look forward to a new lobby covering 1,804 sq ft—a stark contrast to their current cramped quarters. No more worrying about rainy days; this spacious entry area will allow families to queue and socialize while staying dry and comfortable.
The improved building will feature an upgraded ticketing system, a fantastic concessions area, and revitalized restroom facilities. And if that wasn’t enough, KCT will be operating two theaters within the Foundry—one main stage with approximately 250 seats and a smaller black box theater that can hold around 100 seats. The main stage itself will spread out over 1,712 sq ft, significantly larger than what they currently work with.
Supporting Young Performers
The new Foundry will also be designed for the ease and comfort of young performers. Plans include a shared vestibule to connect both stages, complete with dedicated green rooms and dressing spaces. Previously lacking in rehearsal areas, the new facility will also introduce rehearsal space and a scene shop to allow for dynamic creative processes.
Families will find even more opportunities available to their children through the addition of five classrooms aimed at expanding KCT’s educational offerings. This expansion will help eliminate waiting lists, letting even more eager young thespians join in on the fun! Evening classes and workshops are also in the pipeline for the community to benefit from, ensuring a growing talent pool for the future.
A Bright Future Ahead
Led by the efforts of the former owner, Marianne Greene, who purchased the Foundry back in 1993, this transaction is seen as a powerful step forward. KCT has launched a capital campaign dubbed “The Next Stage”, which targets long-term sustainability and growth for their vibrant programs. Fundraising and community support will be crucial for additional renovations, spurred on by private donors, businesses, and grants—without government funding being part of the picture.
As KCT produces around 10 performances a year, each showcasing approximately 14 times, this shift is viewed as a real game changer. The new space is poised to enhance children’s theater in the Knoxville area remarkably. Everyone from parents to local theater buffs is buzzing with anticipation over what this means for the community and the budding stars taking the stage.
Conclusion: Celebrate the Arts!
As the curtains prepare to rise on this new adventure, all eyes are on the Knoxville Children’s Theatre. Their move to The Foundry promises to create an array of exciting opportunities for children in the performing arts, helping nurture the talents of the next generation. It’s a fantastic time to celebrate creativity, teamwork, and all the wonderful things theater has to offer! Stay tuned, Knoxville, for a bright future filled with drama, laughter, and stunning performances ahead.
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