Inspiring Imaginations series planned to bring live theater to area students at Legacy Theater

CARTHAGE, Ill. — The Legacy Theater recently announced a new school field trip program for the 2024-2025 school year called “Inspiring Imaginations Series.” This free series invites young people from local schools to four shows at the theater from October 2024 through March 2025. All titles showcase nationally touring professional theater companies.

“Our school series begins a new tradition of highlighting classic children’s literature and presenting topics highly relevant for pre-K to eighth-grade curricula such as social studies and history,” Thomas Robbins, executive director of the Legacy Theater, said in a press release.

Performances will add to any classroom curriculum with creative and imaginative learning, critical thinking topics and live performance experiences. Study guides are available to help combine show topics with classroom activities.

The Inspiring Imaginations field trip program is open to public and private schools, homeschool families, and accredited preschool and daycare groups for students ages four and older. Most performances are approximately one hour in length and may include a question-and-answer period.

Tickets are not issued for this series as admission is free of charge. However, reservations are required and are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. A request form for seating is available online at www.thelegacytheater.com.

Inspiring Imaginations Series shows:

Friday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m. – Kids for President – Performed by Child’s Play Touring Theatre. This show is recommended for Pre-K to sixth grade. It is timed to coincide with children’s election year curiosity and excitement. It runs the gamut from silly to serious with campaign speeches, suggestions for improving the world and kids’ own ideas on what it’s like to be the president.

Monday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m. – Winnie the Pooh – Performed by Lexington Children’s Theatre. Recommended for Pre-K to third grade. Join the adventures of Christopher Robin and his friends in the 100- acre woods.

Wednesday, Feb. 19, 10 a.m. – Tubman: Road to Freedom – Performed by GreatWorks Theatre Company. Recommended for third to eighth grades, this show will introduce students to a real-life heroine who led 300 people from slavery to freedom. Tubman served the Union Army during the Civil War, and was one of the most prominent voices in the push for women’s voting rights.

Monday, March 31, 10 a.m. – Alice in Wonderland – Performed by Lexington Children’s Theatre. Recommended for Pre-K to third grade. Join Alice as she chases the White Rabbit and journeys into a topsy- turvy world of fantastic adventures.

A second school performance may be added to any of these shows if interest demands. Reservations will be accepted for an early afternoon performance once the morning show fills to capacity.

The Inspiring Imaginations Series for Schools is made possible, in part by Ramsey Financial Services, with additional support provided by the Illinois Arts Council, United Way of the Great River Region, Community Foundation of West Central Illinois and Northeastern Missouri and the National Endowment for the Arts.

For more information, contact the Legacy Theater at 217-357-9479 or info@thelegacytheater.com.