CTM at 60: How well do you know Children’s Theater of Madison?
Marc Glazer
Q: When and why was CTM founded?
A: In 1965, after creative drama programs were cut from Madison schools. Nancy Thurow co-founded the company with two colleagues from Zeta Phi Eta.
Q: How long did Nancy Thurow lead CTM as artistic director?
A: 38 years (1967–2005), shaping the company with her belief in mixed-age casting and the transformative power of theater. Her unwavering commitment gave young people life-changing experiences on stage.
Q: When did CTM become a resident company at Overture Center?
A: In 2004, nearly 40 years after its founding.
Q: What iconic show kept CTM alive during tough financial times in 2006?
A: “A Christmas Carol.” The production became the cornerstone of CTM’s revival.
Q: Who helped revive CTM and later became producing artistic director?
A: Roseann Sheridan, who directed “A Christmas Carol” in 2006, stabilizing CTM and expanding its artistic vision. She emphasized high-quality theater for families that tackled meaningful issues, moving beyond simplistic children’s theater.
Q: Who became executive director in 2015, and what dream did he pursue?
A: Allen Ebert, who worked to secure a permanent home for CTM—leading to the creation of MYArts.
Q: What is MYArts, and when did it open?
A: The Madison Youth Arts Center, a permanent home for CTM and Madison Youth Choirs. Ground broke in 2019, and CTM moved in during 2021—right in the middle of COVID!
Q: How did CTM return after the pandemic?
A: With a full 2022/23 season, including “A Christmas Carol” and “Peter Pan” at Overture.
Q: Who became CTM’s artistic director in 2024?
A: Brian Cowing—who grew up at CTM, acting as a child, then interning, teaching and directing before stepping into the top role.
Q: How is CTM celebrating its 60th season?
A: With “Through the P(AGES),” a celebration of classic tales, fresh adventures and characters who leap right off the page and on to the stage.
From Thurow’s visionary start to Sheridan’s bold leadership, from Ebert’s dream of a new home to Cowing’s creative future—CTM has spent six decades proving that theater isn’t just entertainment. It’s community, transformation and pure imagination.
The story continues… the next 60 years of CTM starts today, and it starts with YOU.