ABOUT SCTG

Described as "smart theatre for children" by the Los Angeles Times, the Silver Lake Children's Theatre Group (SCTG) uses theatre to develop critical thinking and self-confidence, as well as to engage the imagination. Our plays and programs are designed to develop and nurture young talent while broadening their awareness of culture, politics, and aesthetic. Most importantly, the SCTG builds community. 

MISSION STATEMENT

“The essential SCTG play is a search for wisdom with bittersweet results.”

– Broderick Miller, President of SCTG

OUR STORY

Celebrating our 23rd anniversary in 2023, the SCTG began in the early 90s as a spring theatre program for kids based at the Hollywood-Los Feliz Jewish Community Center.  Loanne Hamrin and Trish Boyer directed and produced several terrific musicals (Guys and Dolls, The Music Man, Show Crazy, e.g.) before retiring in 2000. 

In 2001, Broderick Miller agreed to direct one play in order to keep the program alive – and he’s still here.  The kids program officially became the Silver Lake Children’s Theatre Group a year later with Kelbe Bensinger, Brian Davis, William Delvac, Mark Feldman, Jayne Goldberg, Sandi Silbert, Kathleen Nolen, and Miller providing the key leadership.  Incredibly, Bensinger, Feldman, Nolen and Miller are still with the SCTG.

During his stewardship as Artistic Director, Miller inaugurated a second season of plays to be performed in the fall and established director and writing mentorships.  Nearly every play is now co-written by one or more SCTG students.  Miller’s creative philosophy was to explore the human condition through dramas, comedies and musicals that challenged and inspired kids intellectually as well as emotionally.  By approaching sensitive subject matter (divorce, peer pressure, controlling parents, gender issues, diversity, drugs, sex, politics, religion, etc.) openly and honestly, the SCTG became a safe and supportive community forum for teenagers trying to better understand themselves and their place in the world. 

The SCTG welcomes new members from the ages of 8-18 years old.  Children will learn a great deal about the acting craft and theatre lore - things like voice control, physical movement, confidence, timing, and finding the truth.  Knowledge and skills that will help them in future theatrical endeavors. 

They will learn a lot more about professionalism - being prepared, being on time,  responsibility, self-discipline, respecting the process, and collaborating with colleagues.  Knowledge and skills that will help them in life, whether they are an actor, a plumber, a teacher, a businessperson, a social activist or a rocket scientist.