Lights. 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.
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 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. Many train at Fouchi’s performing arts studio, Encore Studio, which offers classes in dance, musical theater, voice, piano, acting, and tumbling. These students are well-prepared for auditions, having honed their skills in a supportive environment. The program also attracts kids from other regions, including out-of-state participants who join summer camps or specific productions.
A typical audition process is designed to be thorough and inclusive. Kids prepare vocal selections, learn dance combinations, and showcase their acting skills through scene readings. Those who make the cut join a rigorous rehearsal schedule that spans about five weeks before opening night. During this time, they work on music, choreography, and scene work, gradually integrating costumes, set pieces, and technical elements.
The Rehearsal Process
The rehearsal process at Rivertown is intense but rewarding. It starts with discussions and planning with designers to ensure a cohesive vision. Rehearsals are held five days a week, sometimes with additional weekend hours dedicated to learning choreography. As the opening night approaches, actors participate in “stumble throughs” and full dress rehearsals, integrating all elements from costumes to lighting. What really sets Rivertown apart is the integration of students into various roles within the production. High school students often run the soundboard, manage lighting, and even help with set design. This hands-on experience is invaluable, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of theater production.
Being a theater kid at Rivertown— and any musical theater program for that matter— is about more than just performing. It’s about gaining life skills that extend beyond the stage. The supportive environment encourages them to express themselves freely and develop confidence. Much of the feedback from theater parents often includes remarks on the transformative impact the program has on their children. With one even saying, “This has literally changed [my child’s] life.” As Fouchi puts it, “They find their tribe, they find their confidence, they find security, and a space to express themselves.”
Keys to Success
Fouchi emphasizes the importance of commitment, discipline, and passion. The hard work put into rehearsals and the collaborative environment create a strong sense of camaraderie and accomplishment. For Fouchi and her team, the work itself is the fun part—creating, collaborating, and seeing the production come together.
Fouchi also offers a broader perspective on the challenges faced by today’s young performers. With many kids trying to juggle multiple activities, she advises parents to help their children focus on their true passions. Spreading themselves too thin can lead to stress and burnout, whereas dedicating more time to fewer activities can yield greater satisfaction and success.
In a world where kids often face immense pressure, Rivertown Theaters offers a sanctuary. It’s a place where they can be themselves, explore their creativity, and build lifelong friendships. For Kelly Fouchi, seeing the transformation in these young performers is the most rewarding part of her work. The lights that turn on inside these kids, the confidence they gain, and the community they build are what make Rivertown Theaters— and the art of musical theater— a truly special place.