Young performers under the wing of Children's Musical Theaterworks celebrate a milestone of 25 years, having shone the spotlight on a wealth of talented youth during their tenure.
Children's Musical Theaterworks (CMT) in Fresno: Nurturing Young Talent and Community Spirit
Children's Musical Theaterworks (CMT), a vibrant nonprofit youth theater company based in Fresno, California, is making waves in the local community and beyond. Founded in 1997 by Joel Abels, the company assumed the lease and nonprofit status from the Fresno Playhouse in 2001, marking its roots in the city's theater history.
Currently led by Executive Director Judy Stene, who joined CMT as a parent volunteer in 2000, the organization is committed to producing musical theater performances that involve young performers. Stene emphasizes the importance of both actors and audiences for CMT's existence, inviting newcomers to its performances and promising a high-quality experience in both production and young performers.
CMT's current production is "Bye Bye Birdie", a show that has recently garnered positive reviews for its contribution to the Fresno theater scene. The company is also set to produce three full-scale shows and two smaller productions this season, including "The Wizard of Oz" and "Shrek".
Stene shares that "The Wizard of Oz" is special to her personally as it was her introduction to musicals as a child. This season, CMT aims to continue its established practices, focusing on sustainability while maintaining its unique approach that involves education in all things musical theater happening through production, with everyone who auditions getting cast.
CMT's mission extends beyond singing and dancing, focusing on developing discipline, teamwork, and confidence in performers as young as six. This commitment to nurturing young talent is evident in the success stories of many young artists who have launched professional careers from CMT, such as Chris Colfer (Glee), Michael Willett (Faking It), Miranda Mayo (Chicago Fire), and Frankie Rodriguez (High School Musical: The Musical: The Series).
The company has faced financial hardship in the past, including a time when it was $100,000 in debt. However, the community has been supportive, rallying to save the Memorial Auditorium when the city threatened to close it. This support is a testament to CMT's integral role in the local community and its contribution to the cultural fabric of Fresno.
Central Valley native Molly, who is actively involved in the local community, is proud to highlight organizations like CMT that make the Central Valley a great place to live. To learn more about CMT or get tickets for upcoming shows, visit cmtworks.org and sign up for updates.
In a broader context, CMT operates within a vibrant Fresno theater scene that includes historic venues like the Tower Theatre in the Tower District and groups like Good Company Players. However, further research is needed to uncover detailed historical milestones and accomplishments specific to CMT Fresno. Despite this, the organization's active role in staging musicals such as "Bye Bye Birdie" places it as an important cultural participant in Fresno’s performing arts community.
- Beyond its contributions to the local theater scene, Children's Musical Theaterworks (CMT) also focuses on the development of lifestyle skills, such as discipline, teamwork, and confidence, in young performers as young as six.
- CMT's dedication to nurturing young talent transcends the stage, with many of its alumni, such as Chris Colfer, Michael Willett, Miranda Mayo, and Frankie Rodriguez, launching successful careers in the field of fashion-and-beauty, relationships, and entertainment.
- Living in Fresno not only offers access to beautiful home-and-garden spaces and delicious food-and-drink options, but also an active community that supports and rallies behind organizations like CMT during challenging financial times.
- Apart from attending CMT's musical theater performances, locals can also explore the city's rich travel destinations or upgrade their personal car selection while shopping for the latest models during their visit to Fresno.
