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theatre arts education by and for children since 1974 Children’s Theatre of Winnetka, a program of the Winnetka Community House, is a not-for-profit, volunteer organization dedicated to promoting theatrical experiences for New Trier Township children, grades 4 - 8. Children participate both onstage and backstage in two productions annually; fall and spring. |
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CTW Family Ties are Special!
Here’s a Peek at Our Inspiring Conversation with CTW Alum Betsy Morgan and Husband Chris Fenwick, Music Supervisor, of Broadway’s Once on This Island.
Photos by Lorraine Ryan Photography
While performing on Broadway and around the country, notable Children’s Theatre of Winnetka alum Betsy Morgan always makes time for family, including her CTW family. Recently, Betsy and her husband, Chris Fenwick, joined rehearsal via Skype from their home in New York City. Chris is the music supervisor of Broadway’s Once on This Island—and the dynamic couple had a lot to share about the show that’s playing to rave reviews in its first revival on Broadway, and debuts at Winnetka Community House April 26 through April 29.
“This is the perfect time to perform Once on This Island because it tells a powerful story of hope and forgiveness, and reminds us that love conquers all,” said Chris. “Whether it’s on Broadway or in children’s theatre, Once on This Island genuinely connects with people of all ages.”
In addition to answering dozens of questions from CTW’s Once on This Island combined casts of 80 children, Betsy and Chris performed a song from the original musical score—and listened to CTW performers sing the opening musical number, “We Dance.”
The couple met while working on the world premiere of the musical Giant in Washington DC and were married two years ago. Today, Betsy and Chris balance their busy careers in theatre with their favorite new role—playing parents to a baby boy.
A New Trier graduate, Betsy performed with director Stephen Schellhardt and like Stephen, credits CTW for building her foundation for theater and for life. “This is the place where I felt I belonged—where I could be myself and bring my own unique energy knowing it would be embraced and turned into something that people enjoy,” said Betsy.
Once on This Island brings to life the story of Ti Moune, a fearless peasant girl who falls in love with a wealthy Frenchman named Daniel, whom she saves from death. Aided by the gods of Earth, Water, and Love in her quest to be with Daniel, Ti Moune must face the ultimate sacrifice in this love-conquers-all folktale. Inspired by Romeo and Juliet and The Little Mermaid, Once on This Island features vibrant Caribbean-influenced rhythms and colorful characters in this ensemble-driven show.
“This is the perfect time to perform Once on This Island because it tells a powerful story of hope and forgiveness, and reminds us that love conquers all,” said Chris. “Whether it’s on Broadway or in children’s theatre, Once on This Island genuinely connects with people of all ages.”
In addition to answering dozens of questions from CTW’s Once on This Island combined casts of 80 children, Betsy and Chris performed a song from the original musical score—and listened to CTW performers sing the opening musical number, “We Dance.”
The couple met while working on the world premiere of the musical Giant in Washington DC and were married two years ago. Today, Betsy and Chris balance their busy careers in theatre with their favorite new role—playing parents to a baby boy.
A New Trier graduate, Betsy performed with director Stephen Schellhardt and like Stephen, credits CTW for building her foundation for theater and for life. “This is the place where I felt I belonged—where I could be myself and bring my own unique energy knowing it would be embraced and turned into something that people enjoy,” said Betsy.
Once on This Island brings to life the story of Ti Moune, a fearless peasant girl who falls in love with a wealthy Frenchman named Daniel, whom she saves from death. Aided by the gods of Earth, Water, and Love in her quest to be with Daniel, Ti Moune must face the ultimate sacrifice in this love-conquers-all folktale. Inspired by Romeo and Juliet and The Little Mermaid, Once on This Island features vibrant Caribbean-influenced rhythms and colorful characters in this ensemble-driven show.
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