101 Stories: Dave Killen and Cincinnati State

By The Children's Theatre

Celebrate TCT’s 101st season as it comes to a close as we applaud and appreciate those who contributed to the organization’s magic throughout our century-long journey.  During 10 weeks of recognition, we honor individuals who have been instrumental in the success of TCT, and who have not only helped TCT grow in mission, but also thrive, thanks to their passion.  It is these people and their moments in our history that shaped TCT to become what it is today. We encourage you to consider giving a gift in their honor to ensure the sustainability of TCT’s mission for the next 100+ years. 

Dave Killen, Cincinnati State

During the 2020 pandemic, The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati collaborated with Dave Killen, Co-Chair of the AudioVideo Production Program at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, his team and co-op students to create TCT’s digital touring productions, including the company’s innovative, interactive Pick-A-Path shows.  This new digital format allowed TCT to keep audiences engaged in an immersive way.  

Mr. Killen says:  “Our Cincinnati State students really embraced the challenge not only with the multi-camera linear productions, but also with the new idea and technology associated with Pick-a-Path, or “branching” production workflows.” 

Harriet Tubman: Straight Up Outta’ The Underground on the Pick-A-Path Digital Platform

He continues: “It is important, especially now, for young people to have vivid imaginations. Theatre helps bring imagination to life for young people, but I think the same goes for us as adults. When TCT approached Cincinnati State, so much was unknown and daunting. It took imagination to keep TCT going during when so much was uncertain. “The unknown” is a necessary ingredient in learning, and the team at TCT embraced this same idea. It was incredibly apparent that at TCT, we were welcome. Our ideas were welcome and we were appreciated and respected through the entire process. The co-op students saw and felt the importance of this project and the appreciation from TCT every step of the way.  

When I look back at this collaboration, I look back with pride.  We were all learning: the co-op students, the staff at TCT, and we as faculty. We were all learning together and create something truly important, unique, and wonderful.”  

Production and Post-Production Co-op Students 
Megan Moore 
Hunter Brockmann 
Rob Bingham 

Production Script Supervisor 
Tessa Killen – Highlands High School Senior 

Co-op Coordinator  
Andi Feld 

Faculty  
Christian Appleby 
Dave Killen 

Would you honor Dave Killen and Cincinnati State with a gift to recognize the impact made on TCT?


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