Knoxville Children’s Theatre (KCT) is an education-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that stages professional-quality plays for children, by children — every production is performed by young actors trained in KCT’s own classes and camps. The company produces about ten shows a year (including three musicals) and hosts its performances in the Theatre in the Park at World’s Fair Park.

Now showing: The Lion, the Witch, and The Wardrobe (a stage version of C.S. Lewis’ classic) is playing this week, with matinees in the afternoon — tickets for the current run are priced around $14–$18 depending on seat.

What makes it a great Maryville/Knoxville family trip: - Live theatre written and performed for kids — short enough for little attention spans, big enough for the grown-ups to enjoy - Afternoon Sunday matinees make an easy early-weekend outing from Maryville (about 35–40 minutes) - KCT also runs acting classes and summer camps, so kids who love a show can get on stage themselves — any child can participate in a production at no cost

Tickets and current showtimes are posted on the official site. Check before you go, as the company runs a fresh production each season.