Cookeville Childrens Theatre — Attraction in Cookeville

So many flaws with this organization. For one— VERY GREEDY! Also, this organization does not cast actors based on sheer talent but rather a “who you know”kind of thing. If you do not know Jennifer Welch or Michael Choate personally—don’t even waste your time or money. You can spend tons of money for all the overpriced classes and summer camps but you will NEVER move up (or even out of ensemble) until their favorites or “picks” age out. They literally cast the SAME few people as leads in everything. Now if you do spend money on the classes/camps—your child will certainly get cast in the ensemble part of the play. But do not be deceived—this is just another way for them to bring in even MORE revenue. They charge each child cast in the play $100+ to be in the play plus you’re responsible for the cost of the wardrobe, shoes, makeup— any other thing they can possibly charge you for. This is why they cast such a LARGE ensemble (more people=more money in their pocket) Your child will spend HOURS sitting around at rehearsal watching the leads practice their lines. They’re VERY strict and barely let the kids socialize or have any fun. Your child will most likely come out on stage 1-2 times and stand there for maybe 2 minutes each time. Again—they do this to cast as many kids as possible to bring in A:more money for fees B:more ticket sales (of course grandma, grandpa, etc will come watch kiddo stand on stage even if it is for 5 seconds). Any reputable theater organization would be the complete opposite—They would actually PAY actors for their time and talent instead of charging them. They would make your child feel like a champion and their time and talent would be rewarded. This company brainwashes you into believing that THEY are doing YOU and favor by casting your child. Realize this—your child is their MONEYMAKER. They wouldnt make a single red cent if it werent for the time and talent of YOUR child. This company is making tens of thousands of dollars in profit not only from ticket sales but also from state grants while still charging parents. And to beat it all—they don’t even give the parents a single ticket to come watch their own kid even stand there for a few minutes. Not even a discounted ticket. GREEDY GREEDY GREEDY. They...

Cookeville Children’s Theatre have been a pinnacle for children’s growth in Cookeville for over 30 years. Their care for kids to become servant leaders and better actors is top notch. They continually put on quality productions for...

My children love participating in anything the Cookeville Children 's Theatre offers! All of the directors and helpers are so kind and helpful! They are such a blessing to...