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March 2, 2014

Charity League of Martinsville & Henry County again hosted the Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT) during the week of February 10-15, 2014. MCT and 54 local children presented a quirky twist on the old classic, Treasure Island.  MCT actor-directors Chris Chamblee and Jessica Eisenberg blew into town with everything it took to put on a play – scenery, props, make-up, costumes – except the cast!  Over 100 students, Kindergarten through 12th grade, auditioned on Monday afternoon, and the cast was chosen.  Some of the older students not cast received the opportunity to work as assistant directors. 

The cast and crew didn’t waste any time; the open audition was immediately followed by the cast’s first rehearsal.  Unfortunately, MCT was not the only thing to blow into town that week.  They were quickly followed by the worst winter storm in recent history.  Kids, parents, Charity League members old and new, and even a couple of the husbands (thank you Chip Slate and Tim Bredamus!) worked tirelessly to bring a show together with Chris and Jessica’s expertise and guidance. 

Our children’s talent and enthusiasm was evident from the beginning, as was their dedication.  And the work paid off in spades!  By the end of the week, new friendships were made, old friendships grew stronger, and the kid’s presented two incredible performances.

A huge debt of gratitude is owed to everyone who helped make our MCT week possible.  Our sponsors: the Nelson Automotive Group; Dutch Inn of Collinsville; Dr. David Jones, D.D.S.; Kimberly R. Belongia, Atttorney-at-Law; Bourland McPheeters & Clark, Attorneys at Law; Drs. Charles Jenkins and Mark Crabtree of Martinsville Smiles; Dr. Theresa Bechtel, O.D. of the Martinsville Eyecare Center; and Chick-fil-a.  The Charity League Missoula Committee: Christina Slate, Kim Belongia, Melinda East Brightwell, and Jennifer Gravely.  Special thanks to Carrie Metzger and Chandres Pickett for taking on extra shifts, and to Tonya Bredamus for your tireless support of the MCT program. 

Submitted by:  Christina Slate