A $2 million gift from the Boyd Foundation is helping Knoxville Children’s Theatre take a major step toward creating a permanent home where young performers can learn, grow and discover their talents.
The donation supports the theatre’s Next Stage capital campaign, a $10 million fundraising effort to transform the historic Foundry building at World’s Fair Park into a state-of-the-art arts education center for children and families.
“This incredible gift from the Boyd Foundation is truly game-changing for Knoxville Children’s Theatre,” said Sien Moon, executive director. “The Boyd family’s generosity brings us significantly closer to realizing our dream of a world-class home for arts education for east Tennessee’s children. This facility will provide thousands of young people with opportunities to discover their voices, build confidence, and explore the transformative power of theatre. We are deeply grateful for this investment in our mission and our community’s children.”
Knoxville Children’s Theatre purchased the historic Foundry building as part of its vision to expand opportunities for young people throughout East Tennessee. Funds raised through the campaign beyond the building purchase will support renovations and modernization.
Plans for the facility include two performance halls, five classrooms, a rehearsal hall and dedicated space for costumes, props and technical production. The expansion will allow the organization to serve more children while providing additional opportunities to explore both performing and behind-the-scenes theatre arts.
Jenny Boyd emphasized the importance of making the arts accessible to the next generation.
“We believe in the power of the arts to transform young lives, and Knoxville Children’s Theatre has been doing that remarkable work for years,” said Boyd. “We’re thrilled to support the Next Stage campaign and help create a place where young people can dream, create and flourish. This is about investing in our kids, expanding opportunity and strengthening our community for generations to come.”
Founded in 2008, Knoxville Children’s Theatre is a nonprofit theatre and academy offering year-round arts education. Its productions feature children performing for children and families, while participants also learn skills in creative thinking, public speaking, leadership, teamwork and technical theatre.
The organization emphasizes accessibility, providing opportunities for children to participate regardless of their families’ financial circumstances.
Fundraising for the Next Stage campaign continues. Community members interested in supporting the project can visit Knoxville Children’s Theatre or contact Moon at sien@knoxvillechildrenstheatre.com.
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