Missoula Children’s Theatre
Every year, the Emporia Arts Council proudly hosts the Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT), a nationally renowned program dedicated to developing life skills through the magic of live theatre.
MCT rolls into Emporia with everything needed for a full-scale musical production—professionally designed sets, vibrant costumes, detailed props, and theatrical makeup. The only missing piece? The cast! That’s where our talented local youth step into the spotlight.
In just one incredible week, over 50 aspiring young performers audition, rehearse, and bring an original musical to life, culminating in an unforgettable public performance. It’s an exciting opportunity for kids to build confidence, creativity, and teamwork—while having a blast on stage!
June 15 – 19, 2026
Auditions Information:
Monday, June 15th
Emporia Granada Theatre
Registration: 4:00–4:30 PM
Auditions: 4:30–6:30 PM
Open to students 1st – 12th grade
Rehearsals for certain age groups will follow the auditions if casted after a short break.
Please plan to stay for the entire audition! *If you child is casted, there is a $20 tuition fee that will be due after auditions.
No experience necessary—just bring your energy, creativity, and a love for storytelling. Don’t miss this chance to shine!
Your child must be available the entire week of the rehearsals and for the performance. A rehearsal schedule will be provided after auditions. Please provide a sack lunch for your kiddo as they will be required to stay at the theatre during their dinner break.
THE EMPEROR’S NEW CLOTHES
ADAPTED BY: JIM CARON and MATT LOEHRKE
MUSIC AND LYRICS BY: JIM CARON, MICHAEL MCGILL, GREG BORIS and, AMY ELLIS
“Dress for success” is good advice that the Emperor takes whole-heartedly, wanting to impress the Kings & Queens of the Elemental Kingdoms. But where to stop? When the clothes (and other people’s opinions) become more important than the people of the kingdom, trouble brews. The Royal Scholars & Royal Artisans try to help their beloved Emperor find the way back to his heart, but the Money Council led by Manypenny want to keep the Emperor’s new obsession growing. When the loyal Silkworms are kicked out of the castle, it becomes clear that the Emperor needs to learn a lesson. With all of the Elemental Kingdoms gathered, it’s time for a royal parade!
Performance – Friday, June 19th at 7:00 pm at the Emporia Granada Theatre. Doors open at 6:30 pm.
Adult tickets (18+): $10.00 & Youth (3 – 17 years old): $5.00 – Tickets will be available throughout the week of rehearsals and at the night of the performance. We accept cash, checks or cards (service fee applied to card transaction).
Thank you to Major Presenting Sponsor, Mitchell-Markowitz Construction.
Questions? Contact, Amy Gonzales at agonzales@emporiaksarts.org
Workshops! Fill out the form below to register your child – You will be directed to pay for the workshop after clicking submit.
Behind the Scenes, Tuesday, June 16 · Grades 1st – 2nd · 12 – 1 pm · 30 spots available · $5 per kid
Actors have very important jobs to do to tell a story, but there are so many people who make theatre magic happen before the curtain even rises! This workshop explores the world of Costume Design, Set Design, Theatre Marketing, and Makeup Design to give students a taste of the many artforms involved in making a performance great.
Improv, Thursday, June 18 · Grades 3rd – 12th · 12 – 1 pm · 60 spots available · $5 per kid
Listening, creativity, bravery – all important skills for the Improv Actor to hone. This workshop emphasizes teamwork and “all-in” participation as the students learn to act without a script. Students of any experience level will be successful in this workshop.
