Earlier this week, more than 50 students from New Heights Charter School in Brockton, Massachusetts experienced something unforgettable: a trip to New York City to see The Lion King on Broadway thanks to our Theatre for Kids program.
For many of the students, it wasn’t just their first Broadway show – it was their first time visiting New York City.
From the moment the iconic opening notes of Circle of Life filled the theatre and performers moved down the aisles with breathtaking puppetry, the students were immersed in the storytelling and artistry of live theatre. It was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when young people are given access to experiences that spark imagination and creativity.
“Students loved being able to go into New York and see the amazing performance of The Lion King. This couldn’t have happened without Rodman for Kids and their incredible supporters,” said New Heights Charter School teacher Josephine Farah. “The impact of seeing this performance will show our students how far the arts can take them. Whether it’s set design, acting, or costume design, they’ll be able to see where the arts can take them.”
For the students, the experience was filled with moments that will stay with them long after the curtain call.
“My favorite part was with the hyenas and Scar making their plans,” said one student from New Heights when asked about the performance. “I think this was probably one of my favorite experiences.”
Experiences like this are about more than seeing a performance – they’re about helping young people see themselves in spaces they may have never imagined before.
“Access to a Broadway show like The Lion King is meaningful not only for the power and representation within the piece, but also because it reinforces that performing arts spaces are for all kids,” said Bill Stiles, Director of Programs at Rodman for Kids. “We look forward to continuing to provide access to Broadway performances as a hallmark of Theatre for Kids programming.”
Through the Theatre for Kids program, Rodman for Kids works to ensure that young people can experience the transformative power of live theatre – whether it’s their first show or their first moment realizing that the arts might be part of their future.
In 2025, Theatre for Kids celebrated a major milestone: 100,000 young people introduced to live theatre. Now, the focus shifts toward the future – toward inspiring the next generation of artists, storytellers, and creative thinkers.
Each performance, each ticket, and each experience helps move that vision forward.
Because when a young person sees what’s possible on stage – whether through acting, costume design, music, or stagecraft – it can open doors to new dreams and new possibilities for their future.
