By Kathy CollinsCenterPlacelogo

One of the best things that Center Place of Brandon offers for children and families is live theatre. Center Place has a great line up of shows that are great for children 3 years and older and their families.

Tickets for the shows are $6 for Center Place members, $7 for non-members and $6.50 for public schools, private schools and daycares (schools). Advanced tickets/reservations are required.

First up is Johnny Appleseed by Katie Adams, Make Believe Theatre on Wednesday, October 7. A show for the general public will take place at 10:15 a.m. and one for schools will be held at 11:45 a.m.

In November, Mother Goose A Pocketful of Rhymes by Stages Productions will be presented. There will be four shows for schools on Thursday, November 12 and Friday, November 13 at 10:15 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. The public can see the show on Friday, November 13 at 10:15 a.m. and 7 p.m.

December brings the holidays, and there is no better way to celebrate with a showing of Santa’s Holiday Revue by Stages Productions. Schools can schedule an outing on Tuesday, December 8; Thursday, December 10 or Friday, December 11 at 10:15 a.m. or 11:45 a.m. The public is invited to see the show on Friday, December 11 at 10:15 a.m. or at 7 p.m.

According to Dawn Galia, executive director of Center Place, they have 15,000 children who attend the live theatre each year. Galia said, “It is amazing to see the children’s faces when they see a live theater presentation. Sometimes it is for the very first time. Since our theater is small, it is an up close and personal experience for the children.”

Center Place’s mission statement includes the responsibility to give the community easy access to the arts, through exhibit, classes and performances. Galia said, “Children who attend cultural events more frequently tend to be more involved in social, religious and civic activities. All of these impact our community in a positive way. The arts are important.”

Center Place is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that has been serving the greater Brandon community since 1976. Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. For more information on Center Place’s theatre, call 685-8888 or visit www.centerplacebrandon.org.

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