Great Bend Community Theater is the latest recipient of more than $10,000 in donations from the members of the 100+ People Who Care group in Barton County. Following a humorous presentation from theater members Dan Heath and Matt Mazouch, members of the group selected GBCT out of the three charitable organizations who presented for the quarter on May 1.
GBCT plans to utilize the funds to bring the Missoula Children’s Theatre Company to the Great Bend community for the benefit of the youth in the area. Professional actors and directors would be in residence for a week-long camp, providing up to 60 youth the opportunity to grow both on and off the stage, through the creation of lights, props and a musical theater production. The company describes the experience they bring to youth in this way: “On Monday, they’re cast as characters. By Saturday, they’ve GAINED CHARACTER. The kind that really counts!”
The Great Bend Community Theatre looks forward to bringing this tour to Great Bend to promote pride, confidence, character, work ethic, and team building skills in our youth, members said. With 100 percent of ticket sales from the youth production retained locally, they also hope to sustain this program for many years to come.
“We couldn’t be more grateful that the members of 100+ People Who Care are investing in this sustainable program,” said Dan Heath, GBCT volunteer. “Some kids have sports, some kids have music, and this program will help provide another opportunity for students to find their talents and build confidence and character through the fun of live theater.”
Learn more about GBCT online at www.gbct.net and Facebook.
Anyone else wishing to donate to the new summer camp project can mail a tax deductible gift to P.O. Box 361, Great Bend, KS 67530.
The next giving meeting for the 100+ People Who Care group will be held at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 7, at the Best Western Angus Inn Courtyard. At that time, representatives from Great Bend Community Theatre will return to provide an update on their progress in utilizing the $10,000+ gift. Members will also vote to select and nominate local, charitable organizations to receive future funds. More details can be found on the group’s website, www.100bartoncounty.org, or on its Facebook page.