Opening Night! Tom Sawyer Journeys to the Norman Bird Sanctuary

Thursday marks opening night of the Newport Children’s Theatre (NCT) production of "Tom Sawyer," based on the Mark Twain classic and adapted by Tim Kelly.

The outdoor performance begins at 4 p.m. each day, Thursday through Sunday, on the grounds at the.  

Margaret Maurer, a Brown University student who acted with NCT for many years, directs the performance. Maurer and the cast of 22 have been busy rehearsing for six weeks, and are all very excited to perform this classic.  

In 1980, members of the community theatre group Newport Player's Guild realized there was a lack of performing arts for children and families in Newport, and formed Newport Children's Theatre, originally with adult actors. The following year, NCT started the summer theatre workshop program, forging a relationship with St. Michael's Country Day School that lasted almost two decades.

In 2000, the relationship with St. Michael's ended, which forced NCT to discontinue the summer workshop program and left the group without a home.

Since then, they've found some creative and inspiring work space in the great outdoors among one of Middletown's most pristine areas.

The first NCT performance at the Norman Bird Sanctuary took place in August of 2003. Today's goal is for the NCT is to eventually grow into a dedicated theatre space and restart the summer workshop program, according to Maurer.

See Tom Sawyer

• Check out the photo gallery for a sneak preview!
• Four outdoor performances will be held at the .
• Shows begin promptly at 4 p.m. daily, Thursday through Sunday. It's best to arrive a little early to park and set up your viewing seats.
• Bring blankets or lawn chairs, a picnic dinner, and bug spray!
• Tickets cost $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $6 for children under 12.

How to get involved with the NCT:

• The website, newportchildrenstheatre.com, is under construction. The NCT is in need of a volunteer to help update information on the site. 
• Join the NCT's Facebook page to get updates on performances and auditions.
• Contact the board president, John P. Feld at 401-222-0728 or jpfeld@gmail.com to receive updates or to get involved.