ROGERS — The Rogers Little Theater family received a special sneak peek Tuesday encouraging individuals to sign up youngsters for expanded children’s theater off erings.
The Board of Directors, Board of Producers, former cast and crew members and theater supporters gathered Tuesday at the Victory Theater for the organization’s Holiday Celebration and annual meeting.
Martina Peacock, her daughter, Dru Wiser, and child actors presented a skit touting the launch of new full-time KidsWorks programming in 2010 at the Spotlight Studio.
The theater stages several shows each season at the Victory, 116 S. Second St. That stage is also used for rehearsals and the facilities are rented for other events.
Theater officials wanted to expand children’s theater offerings to include afternoon classes and musical theater classes for teens and to create new performance opportunities for the students.
Funding from Cox Communications and the Walmart Foundation enabled the group to expand. Rogers Little Theater is now leasing a storefront at 204 W. Walnut St. for the endeavor. Classes begin Jan. 11, the audience learned. Students will have the opportunity to study acting, dancing and singing.
Rusty Turner, president of the Board of Directors this year, presented several awards.
Theater manager DanetteBallou was presented with a gift in appreciation for her service.
Joe March, who was unable to attend, received the President’s Award. March served as treasurer, and the honor is presented to a Rogers Little Theater Board member who has given outstanding hours and service to Rogers Little Theater.
Brad Karren and the Rogers District Court received the Executive Committee Award. The award is given annuallyin recognition of outstanding contributions by an organization. The judge and his court received the honor for allowing community service work from defendants to assist the theater.
Kevin Lancaster and Jim Olmstead both received the Board of Directors Award. The honor is presented annually for outstanding contributions by a Rogers Little Theater volunteer.
Members retiring from the board were recognized. They included Beth Stephens, Shelly Cottrell, Barbara Roberts and Turner.
Members joining the board are Anita Karren, Dr. David Jeffery, Laura Wilson and Ed McClure.
Our Town, Pages 20 on 12/20/2009