A Dialogue with Rick Dildine, New Artistic Director at Children’s Theatre Company

Article by Becky Fillinger, photos provided 

Children’s Theatre Company (CTC) has named Rick Dildine as their new Artistic Director. Dildine assumed the post on July 1 - he replaces Peter C. Brosius after 27 years leading the organization. We talked to Dildine about what drew him to CTC, the boundary pushing and important work produced by CTC, and how you as adult members of our community can support our nationally-recognized, locally treasured theater.

Rick Dildine Photo: Wesley LawQ:  What was it that appealed to you to become Artistic Director of the Children’s Theatre Company? 

A:  CTC is one of the country’s iconic theaters with a reputation for excellence and having a tremendous impact on the lives of young people. The repertoire is rigorous, adventurous, and imaginative. As an artist, I give great value to young people and their thoughts and contributions. CTC has made a valuable space that respects the points of view of young people. For some time, I’ve felt like there is not a nobler task than creating something for young people. 

Q:  You’re brand new to the position, but do you have any short-term and long-term goals for the theater? 

A:  Long-term goals will reveal themselves more once I get on the ground and listen and learn. But our audiences and staff can count on a continued commitment to new, boundary pushing, rigorous work for young people. It’s that level of work that has made CTC the industry leader in programming for multi-generational audiences. Peter Brosius has done a remarkable job interpreting the mission, and it’s my hope we can take that farther and find new ways to create community within the theater.

Q:  Are there any specific themes or types of productions you hope to showcase? 

A:  What drew me to the repertoire is the diversity of content, style, and themes. CTC respects that young people and their families are always growing, maturing, and evolving. The programming reflects that. One of the leaders of regional theatre movement, Zelda Fichandler, always said, “The programming is our destiny.” It is the programming that will allow us to achieve our vision of unleashing the power of curiosity, empathy, and imagination. 

Q:  How will you go about balancing educational and entertaining elements in CTC productions? 

A:  I think there’s a distinct difference between art and entertainment. Art focuses us while entertainment distracts us. Both are of great value for us as humans. Sometimes we need to focus on a theme or concept, and it’s through artistic expression that that focus is possible. And sometimes we need to be distracted from the world and be entertained. Both are good for the soul.

Q:  Would you like to offer workshops, educational sessions, or collaborations with local schools? How might it happen?  

A:  We do offer workshops. CTC has partnerships with 11 metro area schools providing after school and in school programming. We are currently in a long-term partnership with Bethune Arts Elementary, providing year-long residencies for every grade level, summer camp programing and family tenement activities. CTC offers workshop options for homeschool families that wish to extend their field trip experience.  Schools interested in booking a workshop or residency can call the education office to discuss options.

Q:  How may grandparents, parents and community members be involved with the Children's Theater? 

A:  Grandparents, parents, and community members can nurture an appreciation and love of theatre for the children in their lives by taking them to see shows, by enrolling them in educational classes and camps, by supporting them in auditioning and performing in productions if they have interest, and by continuing to encourage them as they engage with the artform in whichever capacity they choose. Adults can also support CTC by being a season subscriber, by becoming donors, and by sharing information about the theatre, the productions, and the educational offerings with their communities. 

Q:  Let's get to know you. You've got a free weekend - how will you spend it?  

A:  My husband and I love to travel and explore. He works within the museum industry, so we find ourselves visiting museums of all types. My weekends are about relaxing, spending time with family and friends, reading in a good coffee shop, and going to the movies. 

Q:  What are your hobbies?

A:  I am fortunate that my hobby of theatre became my career. But when I’m not making theatre, I exercise, read, and travel. I’m almost always planning my next trip!

Rick on the set of A Christmas Carol