Merrimack Junior Theatre was a town institution for 23 years, giving artistic kids an outlet while also preparing them for life after Andover. When it closed its final curtain last year under founder Josie Walker, there were concerns it would leave a hole in the community. So its good news that some of those involved with MJT are teaming with Andover Youth Services to create a new group, "Theater Works!"
While there are other community theater programs in town offering kids opportunities, if there is interest enough from youth, as we expect there is, there's no reason all these groups can't thrive. We look forward to their productions, and perhaps the formation of "the next Michael Chiklis."
When MJT was going strong, kids weren't only getting a moment in the spotlight, they were learning life skills through theater. Walker said that if kids could get up in front of 500 people and perform, then they could certainly get up in a board room or anyplace else and command a room — or at least not be intimidated. Kids from different parts of town and different grades were able to work together on something creative through MJT. Some performed on stage while others learned the basics of theater lighting and set design. A few went on to Broadway. But at its core, MJT was about giving kids keys to succeed in the real world.
We hope Youth Services' Theater Works! program will continue to use theater to help develop Andover kids with poise, self-confidence and a love of the arts. Great community theater performances that have parents beaming will just be an added bonus.
