
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 200 performances annually at community centers, libraries, and schools, reaching an audience of approximately 15,000 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.
Touring this Summer ¶
May 30-June 29, 2023
Ugly Duckling
An original play inspired by the Hans Christian Andersen story
Elmer doesn't look or behave like anyone else on the farm. Some of the other animals say that he is ugly. But is he really an ugly duck? Follow this gangly, scruffy, lonely fellow as he searches for his identity through a series of comical misadventures. Only after trying to be everything that he is not, does the gentle Elmer find the place he truly belongs and discovers the ultimate secret to happiness. Best for ages 4 and up.
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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!
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?
Youth Workshops ¶

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