Who we are

Columbus Children’s Theatre Inspires the next generation
of artists and theatre lovers.

We are Columbus Children’s Theatre.

For generations, we’ve been the first introduction to theatre for thousands of children across Central Ohio: sparking curiosity, inspiring imagination, and building a lifelong love of the arts. Today, we are proud to be a theatre company producing work of the highest caliber for audiences of all ages. Our seasons blend enrichment for young audiences, family-friendly shows, cutting-edge new work, and large-scale productions that stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the best in Columbus.

Our mission is bigger than entertainment. We create theatre that empowers, educates, and transform, offering training that launches careers, programming that breaks down barriers to access, and experiences that challenge what theatre can be. Whether you’re watching your child step onstage for the first time, joining us for an immersive adventure, or seeking top-tier theatre as a lifelong arts lover:

THEATRE BEGINS HERE.

Our Commitment to Anti-Racism, Equity, and Accessibility

CCT is committed to building a community where everyone is not just welcomed but celebrated. We encourage people of all races, ethnicities, classes, genders, identities, abilities, sizes, ages, and experience levels to join us - onstage, backstage, and in the audience. We are committed to the ongoing learning and action required to become a more just, inclusive, and equitable organization. Our goal is to create a space of safety, strength, and belonging for those who are marginalized. We see you. We hear you. You belong at CCT.

“I must say, this production was... inspiring to say the least. When half the cast is tearing up at the end and there’s a standing ovation at the end of act one? You know you are onto something. excellent job everyone. I hope everyone is deservedly proud!”

— Patron after CCT’s production of Ragtime

Since 1963, Columbus Children’s Theatre (CCT) has been a cornerstone of youth arts education and performance in central Ohio. Originally established as a small theatre company offering creative opportunities for young people, CCT has grown into a dynamic nonprofit organization serving more than 85,000 individuals annually through education, performance, and outreach.

CCT’s mission is to transform families through the power of the stage. For over six decades, that mission has come to life in classrooms, rehearsal studios, libraries, community centers, and on stage—ensuring that children of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities can access high-quality theatre.

What began as a small series of children’s productions has evolved into a robust suite of programs that includes year-round theatre education, professional-level productions featuring youth and adult performers, sensory-friendly performances, touring programs, and scenic design services. CCT’s inclusive programming serves toddlers exploring imagination for the first time, elementary students building collaboration skills, and teens developing confidence and leadership through performance and technical training.

CCT is proud to be more than a theatre—it is a space where young people discover their voice, their story, and their community. The organization’s long-standing commitment to accessibility and inclusion has led to the introduction of tuition assistance, subsidized tickets, outreach residencies, and workforce development opportunities. These efforts ensure that no child is left out of the transformative power of theatre.

CCT continues to innovate with immersive storytelling, cross-sector partnerships, and a strategic vision to build a permanent education center and accessible theatre in the heart of Columbus. With deep community roots and a forward-looking spirit, CCT remains dedicated to nurturing the next generation of creative thinkers, storytellers, and changemakers.