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.
Dr. Rajan Kamath is an Associate Professor of Strategy & International Business at the University of Cincinnati Lindner College of Business. In addition, he is a Shingo Prize, UC Forward Fellow. Dr. Kamath joined The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati Board of Trustees in 2012. For the last 11 years, he has been an incredible contributor to the TCT Marketing Committee. During 2019-20 and 2020-21, TCT participated in two Capstone projects with MBA students in Dr. Kamath’s class with his guidance. Topics included: best practices for remote operations, including ways to engage and spark joy in the TCT staff, as well as benchmarking, marketing, and value propositioning for TCT Academy. The invaluable insight and knowledge TCT gained during the process, and the students’ real-life business engagement was an outstanding win-win for everyone involved.
We caught up with Dr. Kamath and asked him to share his TCT experience:
What prompted your involvement with TCT?
My love for theatre and belief that theatre is an essential component of education motivated me to get involved with TCT. Once I joined the organization, it was easy to see that I am in the company of dedicated people who are motivated to serve the needs of children of all ages in the Tri-State community. It feels great to be a part of the movement to keep theatre for children vibrant and active in the city.
Was there a particular situation where you witnessed the TCT mission specifically enhance the growth and development of children’s imagination or creativity?
I learned that public school budgets were under stress, and TCT is often the only exposure to theatre children get in the K-12 setting. I grew up in Mumbai (India) with plenty of exposure to theatre. I could see that TCT serves a significant need, and the first time I attended a performance and saw the little ones streaming into the auditorium and having a great time, I knew I was in the right place.
What do you love most or miss most about your work with TCT?
The thought that I am a part of a vital public service that meets critical developmental needs out of public schools’ reach is very important to me.
What else would you like to share about your time with TCT?
Besides serving an important need, there is a certain joy that comes with being a part of a really creative and resilient team, a team that sees challenges as opportunities to grow. As we move forward into an age in which technology opens the door for customizing the theatre experience, and the possibilities that exist within a potential home at the Emery Theatre, I cannot wait to see what new experiences TCT will offer in the years to come.
Would you honor Dr. Rajan Kamath and the University of Cincinnati with a gift to recognize the impact made on TCT?
