Mid-Columbia Musical Theatre: Musical magic 70 years in the making

For 70 years, Mid-Columbia Musical Theatre (formerly Richland Light Opera Company) has been producing exciting and entertaining stage shows for audiences across the Tri-Cities and beyond.

The company began in 1948 as no more than a dream. But with grit, gumption and a little glitter, perhaps, the dream became reality. In 1949, when the curtain opened on the company’s first production – “The Mikado” – creators knew they had something special on their hands. That magic continues today, as MCMT celebrates seven decades of theatrical excellence.

Our 2017-2018 season features stories of forbidden love. America’s favorite freaky family, “The Addams Family”, took center stage at Richland High in October with a stellar cast bringing the iconic characters to life.

Our spring show features an adaptation of Victor Hugo’s “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”, as theatregoers explore the difference between man and monster. The production features a heavenly choir singing breathtaking choral music to frame a story told by a narrator, four leads and a talented ensemble playing multiple roles. “Hunchback” runs March 22-25 at Hanford High School.

MCMT’s summer show, “West Side Story”, was inspired by Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet. The 1961 film adaptation won 10 of the 11 Academy Awards for which it was nominated, including best picture. This revolutionary musical is also a groundbreaking show for MCMT, as it will be the first performed outside Richland. Join us June 22, 23, 28-30 at the Columbia Park Bandshell in Kennewick.

While MCMT boasts a strong and proud heritage, there are some exciting changes in store. First, the company is under new leadership. I took over for outgoing artistic director Anna Newbury, who let for New York in September 2017. I am fortunate to be joined by a talented and experienced support staff, including business manager Nicole Peterson, current Board President Chelsea Taylor, President elect Jill Madison and a slew of volunteers who work diligently to make each show a resounding success.

Second, MCMT recently unveiled a new and improved website, www.MCMT.show. The site strengthens MCMT’s brand, is more user friendly, promotes opportunities for audience engagement, and allows patrons the option to purchase show tickets online.

Third, as part of our educational outreach, MCMT is expanding programs to include directing seminars and stage manager workshops. More information will be posted online soon.

Art is collaborative by nature, and in 2018 MCMT continues to partner with other non-profits and arts agencies to promote and preserve the artistic community.

Our January “Hamiltunes” event was unprecedented, drawing hundreds to Richland’s Uptown Theatre to support the refugee experience. In partnership with World Relief Tri-Cities, and through available matching funds, MCMT help raise $6,000 in donations for local refugees.

In March, the Mid-Columbia’s four core artistic agencies – MCMT, Mid-Columbia Ballet, Mid-Columbia Mastersingers and the Mid-Columbia Symphony – join forces for a Beatles-themed fundraiser. Join the “Fab Four” as we proudly present, “All You Need Is Love”, March 10 from 7-8 p.m. at the Three Rivers Convention Center. Enjoy live, silent, and online auctions, drinks, dinner, dancing, costumes, and live performances.

As we pursue our mission to create meaningful, quality, amateur theater, please remember that our company really is about community. Please get involved, however you can. Lend your time and your talents. When you see a show, remember that there are always at least as many people behind the scenes as you see on the stage itself. This year, we invite you to join MCMT as we introduce both participants and audience members to the thrill of live theatre and nurture a love of the arts.

This story was originally published April 2, 2018 at 2:05 PM with the headline "Mid-Columbia Musical Theatre: Musical magic 70 years in the making."