Missoula Children’s Theatre Unites BVSD Students On Stage for ‘Red Riding Hood

This summer at Manhattan Middle School, students stepped into the spotlight—some for the very first time—thanks to a special visit from the Missoula Children’s Theatre, the nation’s largest touring children’s theatre company.

The group came to Boulder to offer local students a chance to participate in an intensive, week-long theater experience that left a lasting impact both on and off the stage. A total of 83 students from across Boulder Valley School District took part in the program, which culminated in four performances of Red Riding Hood.

“It was about helping kids find their voice and build confidence,” said Brandon Price, Manhattan’s theater teacher. “That’s a skill that will take them far in life.”

Price had a personal connection to Missoula. The company visited his hometown of Tiffin, Ohio, when he was a child. After college, he toured with them for four years, traveling to 37 states and four countries and teaching thousands of young performers.

“I felt blessed to be able to bring them here and introduce the magic of theater to students at a young age,” he said.

Photo by: Tom Brainard

Missoula’s model is fast-paced: students audition on Monday and perform a full play by the weekend. While it may sound intense, the students embraced the challenge.

“What stood out the most was how the students learned to come together as a team,” said Missoula tour director Cady Epperson. “It was incredible to see such a phenomenal performance come together in just one week.”

Her fellow director, Issac Bleich-Sisco, agreed. “Teamwork and collaboration—those are life skills these kids will take with them beyond the stage.”

Student Maggie Isaacs said she witnessed that teamwork right from the start.

“We had to come in, completely new to each other, and create close relationships in a short amount of time,” she said. “You could really see teamwork shine through.”

Photo by: Tom Brainard

From self-expression to collaboration, Missoula Children’s Theatre left a powerful impression on Manhattan Middle’s young actors—on stage and beyond. 

This first experience was such a success that plans are already underway to bring Missoula Children’s Theatre back for spring break and summer of 2026. 

The program is open to all BVSD students in grades K–7. Spots are limited and filled on a first come, first served basis, but everyone who gets a spot is guaranteed a role on stage. There is a registration fee, and scholarships are available to ensure all interested students have the opportunity to participate.

Those interested in learning more or receiving updates about future opportunities can contact Brandon Price at brandon.price@bvsd.org. 

Learn more about the Missoula Children’s Theatre organization here.