North Carolina Theatre Conference Honors DCP's Youth Education Program

The North Carolina Theatre Conference has awarded Davidson Community Players the 2018 Constance Welsh Theatre for Youth Award. Each year, the NCTC Board of Directors presents the NCTC Awards to companies, schools and individuals that are active NCTC members and have exhibited leadership roles in their community, as well as artistic, professional or educational excellence.

DCP's youth program, The Connie Company, was named in memory of Davidson Community Players founder Connie Welsh. Each year the youth education program offers three youth performances (two are musicals), educational classes for elementary ages through high school in the spring and fall, an array of summer camps that has grown in popularity throughout the years, as well as audition workshops for the young performer.

"This award is particularly meaningful to DCP as Constance Welsh originated and led the Davidson Community Players through its first twenty years or so," said Davidson Community Players' Executive Director Matthew Merrell. "Connie left a huge impact on countless children in the community, and we are honored to be recognized for continuing her legacy."

Katie Mullis directs the education programs at DCP. Merrell said she works diligently to attract talented instructors and creates a fun learning environment where young people can be introduced to theater and hone their craft as experienced actors. "In 2018, DCP's education department developed and ran summer camps serving more than 400 kids, educational classes teaching over 150 plus students, and produced high-quality Connie Company performances featuring more than 90 young performers," said Mullis.

Davidson Community Players recently announced its 2019 Season, which includes three youth shows. The Jungle Book runs Jan. 25-Feb. 3, Junie B. Jones The Musical will run April 26-May 5, and Disney's Aladdin Jr. is scheduled for Nov. 1-10. Season subscriptions can be purchased for all three shows for $27 per subscription.