Kids enjoying a CAT Show

Creative Arts Theatre Company

Up Next

The Wind in the Willows

November 4-December 19, 2026

By Jenny Stafford

Toad is out of control, and his friends have had enough. When Mr. Toad's love of motor cars gets out of hand, Mole, Ratty, and Badger lock him in his room for his own good. But you can't keep Toad down! One by one, he outwits his friends and makes a break for it, and a hilarious chase across the countryside begins. Will Toad finally come to his senses before he wrecks the home they all love? This whimsical play with music brings a beloved classic to life for young audiences. Great for emerging readers. Best for ages 4-10.

 Touring Schedule
The Wind in the Willows poster with illustrated animals and play details on a light blue background.

Coming Attractions 2027

Three colorful story title graphics: Jacq and the Beanstalk, The Princess Who Never Laughed, Dragon Up!

FALL 2026

The Wind in the Willows

 

WINTER 2027

Dragon Up

 

SPRING 2027

Jacq and the Beanstalk

 

SUMMER 2027

The Princess Who Never Laughed

Creative Arts Theatre Logo

Creative Arts Theatre is the City of Tampa's resident, professional theatre company for young audiences. A staff of 5 professional artists create and perform innovative theatre experiences, inspired by classic and contemporary children’s literature. Their mission is to encourage literacy throughout Hillsborough County through the magic of live performance.

They present over 100 performances annually at community centers, libraries, and schools, reaching an audience of approximately 8,000 people. Over the past 50 years, they have performed for more than one million children and their families. Creative Arts Theatre Company is a proud member of Theatre for Young Audiences/USA.

 Meet the Team
Production Gallery

Virtual Performances

Miss seeing Creative Arts Theatre's shows at your local library, school, or community center? Check out two of our virtual shows and bring Creative Arts into your living room for the entire family to enjoy!

The Frog Princess 
An original performance by Creative Arts Theatre

Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairy tale, The Frog Princess combines songs and puppetry with the story of a selfish princess who is transformed from a frog into a human by a mysterious golden ball.  Can the spell be reversed in time for her to attend her party at the frog castle?  Join Creative Arts Theatre as they take audiences on a comedic journey of self-discovery and unexpected friendships.  It is sure to be a hoppin’ good time!

The Frog Princess
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Sidekicks - A Choose Your Own Adventure
An original performance by Creative Arts Theatre

Former best friends, Jace and Aaliyah, join their scout troop, the Sidekicks, as they traverse the Em-Path. At first, the path is like any other, but when Jace Aaliyah start arguing and get separated from the rest of the scouts, something unexpected appears on the trail. Which way will they go? Will they earn their empathy badge? And will they be able to to work together to rebuild their friendship? In this "choose your own adventure" style performance, audiences will be asked to make choices regarding which way the story goes. How will you choose?

Sidekicks
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Youth Workshops

Character Voices
Magic of Imagination
No-Sew Costumes
Spoon Puppets
Improv Games
Musical Improv
Set Design
Theatre Dance
Kids dressed up in masks and capes
Summer Camps

Each year Creative Arts Theatre Company offers camps during the summer for youth 6-13 years of age. Topics include acting, improvisation, musical theatre, character creation, and comedy.

More About Creative Arts Theatre

Creative Arts Theatre Programming During COVID-19
Creative Arts Theatre