Youth Summer Theater program announced

Registration is now open for the 2026 Oneida County 4-H Youth Summer Theater Program, presented in collaboration with the internationally recognized Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT). The program will take place from July 6-11 at Nicolet Area Technical College’s Lakeside Center.

The Youth Summer Theater Program gives youth and teens a chance to build confidence, make new friends, try something creative and exciting, learn teamwork and communication and experience the joy of performing on stage. Whether a student loves the spotlight or simply wants to try something new, this program offers a supportive, memorable summer experience. 

This one week, immersive performing arts experience invites Oneida County youth entering grades 1-12 from public, private and homeschool settings to take the stage in a full-scale musical production of Cinderella. 

Each summer, MCT’s signature “little red truck” arrives packed with everything needed to put on a show – sets, costumes, props, lights – everything except the cast.

Over the course of one week, two professional actor/directors lead up to 55 local youth through auditions, rehearsals and a final public performance.

No prior theater experience is required, and all eligible youth are encouraged to participate. 

The 2026 production of Cinderella features a cast including the Fairy Godmother, mice, pumpkins, Cleo the Cat, Fido the Dog, lords and ladies, town criers, the king, buskers and more offering roles for a wide range of ages and personalities. 

The final performance of “Cinderella” will be on Saturday, July 11 at 1 p.m. 

Each performance is free, open to the public and donations are appreciated.

The cost is $80 per student and financial assistance available.

To register, visit oneida.extension.wisc.edu/theater or call 715-365-2750.

For accessibility, interpretation, alternate formats and other accommodations are available at no cost if requested by June 7, 2026.

This program is sponsored by Oneida County 4‑H and UW Extension Oneida County, the Rhinelander Community Foundation, Nicolet College’s Arts & Enrichment and Culver’s in Rhinelander.

Contacts are Jessica Young, Extension Oneida County office manager who may be reached at [email protected] or call 715-365-2750 and Anne Williams, Oneida County UW Extension 4-H program educator at [email protected] or call 715-365-2762.