by Rachel Hunter
The Gouverneur Recreation Department is hosting Missoula Childrens Theatre’s Red Truck Tour on the Gouverneur High School auditorium stage this week. Over 40 local youths enjoyed the weeklong theatre camp. Two performances of “Treasure Island” will be at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. this Saturday, July 26 at the GHS auditorium, 133 E. Barney St., Gouverneur.
Faithful readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press will recall that this is the 15th time that the Gouverneur Recreation Department has hosted the Missoula Children's Theatre – but this will be the first time “Treasure Island” will be performed on the GHS Auditorium stage.
The Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT) production of Treasure Island is a vibrant, original adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic novel, reimagined for young performers and family audiences. Written and conceived by Jim Caron, with music and lyrics by Caron and Michael McGill, this version blends adventure, humor, and heart in a fast-paced theatrical experience. Set in 1782 during the final days of the American Revolution, the story follows young Jim Hawkins, a mischievous boy living with his mother and six sisters in a coastal Maine village. Jim dreams of adventure and finds it when he discovers a treasure map while working at the family inn. He falls under the spell of the legendary pirate Long John Silver and sets sail with a crew of ruffians and a flock of seagulls as guides. As the voyage unfolds, friendships are tested, true colors are revealed, and Jim must navigate danger and deception to find the treasure and return home safely.
Gouverneur Recreation Department Director Casey Canell told the Gouverneur Tribune Press that “Treasure Island" was the first MCT show that they brought to the North Country in 2009 and it was performed at Edwards-Knox CSD. The show was scheduled to be performed in Gouverneur in 2020, but it was canceled due to COVID-19 pandemic crisis. The Gouverneur Recreation is excited to bring “Treasure Island” to Gouverneur this year.
The Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT) offers a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience that empowers children through creativity, collaboration, and performance. Based in Missoula, Montana, MCT is renowned for its Red Truck Tour, the world’s largest touring children’s theatre program of its kind. Each year, MCT visits over 1,100 communities across all 50 U.S. states and 16 countries, bringing professional actor-directors, costumes, sets, and scripts to local venues—and all they need is a cast. The Gouverneur Recreation Department is proud to bring the program to Gouverneur, with support from local sponsors.
What makes MCT truly special is its inclusive approach: every child who auditions is guaranteed a role, whether on stage or behind the scenes. In just five days, kids rehearse, learn lines, build characters, and prepare for a full-scale performance, often of classic tales. The transformation is remarkable—children who start the week shy and uncertain often end it brimming with confidence, proudly performing in front of live audiences.
Beyond acting, MCT offers workshops in mime, improvisation, and stagecraft, helping kids develop skills in communication, teamwork, and self-expression. Older participants may even serve as assistant directors, gaining leadership experience and mentoring younger cast members.
The experience is fast-paced, immersive, and deeply rewarding. Children learn to trust their instincts, support one another, and embrace the joy of storytelling. For many, it’s their first taste of live theatre—and it often sparks a lifelong love of the arts.
Young performers in the Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT) programs gain a wide range of theatrical skills that go far beyond memorizing lines and hitting their marks. Through immersive rehearsals and workshops, they develop acting fundamentals like voice projection, character development, and stage presence. They also learn improvisation techniques, which help build spontaneity, quick thinking, and confidence under pressure.
MCT emphasizes ensemble work, teaching kids how to collaborate, listen actively, and support fellow cast members—skills that are essential both on and off stage. Many programs include dance and movement training, helping children understand choreography, spatial awareness, and physical storytelling. Musical theatre elements like singing in character and harmonizing with others are also part of the experience, especially in productions that involve original scores.
Behind the scenes, older participants may explore directing basics, stage management, and even playwriting, giving them a taste of leadership and creative control. Workshops often cover audition techniques, helping kids prepare for future opportunities in theatre or school productions.
Ultimately, these theatrical skills foster broader personal growth—like public speaking, empathy, discipline, and resilience. Whether a child dreams of Broadway or simply wants to try something new, MCT equips them with tools that last a lifetime. Parents and communities consistently praise MCT for its ability to unite people, build confidence, and create lasting memories.
The Missoula Children’s Theatre week culminates in a full-scale theatrical performance starring the local youth cast. After just five days of auditions, rehearsals, and workshops, the children will take to the stage to present a professionally directed production complete with costumes, sets, props, and makeup.
The Gouverneur Recreation Department will proudly present MCT’s Treasure Island at the Gouverneur Central High School Auditorium on Saturday, July 26, 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sponsors include: the Gouverneur Lions Club, Gouverneur Masonic Lodge, Gouverneur Kiwanis Club, Gouverneur Elks Lodge No. 2035, and the Lawrence Manor. Tickets ($7 each) will be available at the door, or from any cast member. For more information about the Gouverneur Recreation Department, call 315-287-0524.