WESTERN SPRINGS, Ill. (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- One of Illinois' oldest community children's theaters is returning to the stage this weekend after 20 months.
Children's Theater of Western Springs has been a staple of the community for 70 years, but performances were canceled for so long due to the pandemic. Theater Director Lindsay Branson said the staff had to get creative.
"We did online classes. We did some classes outside in tents. We made a movie," she said with a laugh. The theater also did some online productions and virtual Q & A's.
Branson emphasized that the arts are very inclusive and so important to many children's lives. "There is space for everyone. It doesn't matter what your personality is, " she said. "It's an activity where everyone fits. Everybody is welcomed. Everybody is celebrated."
Branson said they held an in person camp last summer, but this weekend's production of Shrek is the first live performance for the children back on the main stage.
Jen Heim Photography
"It still feels a little bit different, but everyone is just so excited to get back on the stage," she said. "There's something really powerful about having live performers in front of a live audience. It's just really special."
There are 37 children in "Shrek," but some shows have a cast of up to 60. The theater offers classes and shows for children aged Pre-K though high school and produces seven shows per year. "Shrek The Musical" is on stage this weekend and next.
