Lights, Camera, Confidence: Nurturing Young Performers
BY MADISON VOORHIES PHOTO BY FREEPIK.COM
28 AUGUST 2024 | NOLAFAMILY.COM This vibrant hub, managed by Kelly Fouchi and her team, has transformed from a local theater into a year-round producing entity offering a diverse array of shows. From mainstage productions to children’s programs, Rivertown Theaters nurtures a love for the performing arts in kids and teens, offering them a place to L ights. Camera. Action! Three words engraved in every musical theater kid’s head that can only mean one thing: it’s showtime. Musical theater has changed a lot over the years. What used to be something your parents would just throw you into as soon as you could walk and don some sort of animal costume swiftly became a passion for budding young stars all over the world. And Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts in Kenner is no different.
grow and shine. “Being in theater prepares you for so many life skills and any job you may go into,” Fouchi says. “It makes you think on your feet; it helps you collaborate with other people; and it helps you be vulnerable around other people while feeling supported to do so.” A Dynamic, Creative Space Rivertown Theaters has been a cornerstone of the community for over 30 years, consistently producing musicals and comedies. Thirteen years ago, Fouchi’s company took over the management and significantly expanded the theater’s offerings. With 14 shows a year and a dedicated children’s program at its Lagniappe Theater, Rivertown is
now a bustling center of creativity and learning. As the Artistic and Managing Director, Fouchi wears many hats. She selects the season’s productions, hires creative teams, manages casting, oversees ticketing, and even steps in as a director, choreographer, and performer. Her dedication ensures that each show maintains high production standards, making audiences feel like they are experiencing something truly special. With Fouchi and her team covering all the behind-the-scenes work, what is this experience like for the youngsters? “We have performers that start with us at a very, very young age, and they grow with the program,” explains Fouchi. The young performers at Rivertown Theaters all come from various backgrounds.
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