HOULTON, Maine — After more than 50 years of staging plays “for children, by children,” Houlton Star Bright Children’s Theatre, incorporated as Houlton Children’s Theatre, is in the process of dissolving as an organization.
“Pandemic restrictions prevented the 2020 production, ‘On the Air,’ from being performed last spring or this year,” explained Mary Miller, a representative for the group. “Moreover, the interest, time and energy needed for productions has begun to wane, on the part of both adults and children. Understanding that sometimes change must come, the HSBCT board regretfully has decided to move toward dissolution.”
The organization will be holding a giveaway of costumes, props and other items on Saturday, June 26, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at its storage building at 54 Green St., across from Acadia Medical Supplies. The public is invited to take whatever stirs a memory, a smile, an idea, a fancy.
A history of the theatre, from its inception in 1968, when “Charlie Brown’s Christmas” was staged at Ricker College, through its continuous annual productions and other activities, is being compiled by Ann Barnes, assisted by Miller. Memories, pictures or comments to add to that effort may be sent to barnes.ann.j@gmail.com or marymillermaine@gmail.com.
Over the years, hundreds of area young people have participated in the theatre’s performances, on stage and behind the scenes. HSBCT, a volunteer non-profit organization, has gratefully received much community support, and endeavored to give back. Many adults have contributed their time and expertise, and many youth have shared their creativity and talent.
The HSBCT board of directors, in making this decision, extends deep thanks to the greater Houlton community, and hopes that theatre “for children, by children” will continue, in some form, to be a part of this area’s life.
