101 Stories: Joe Rigotti

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. 

Joe Rigotti in the 2020 issue of Cincinnati Magazine.

Mr. Joe Rigotti is the Creative Director of Accent on Cincinnati, Inc., a full-service destination management/ event design and production company comprised of designers, event managers, and logistics coordinators who bring a unique experience to events regardless of venue or location.

In 2009, in the midst of the Great Recession, Joe staged a fully-designed fundraising event coinciding with TCT’s performance of DISNEY’s HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 2 ON STAGE! Without a budget of any kind, Joe created a fantastic evening for families and helped TCT during a tough year.  Since then, Joe has gotten a budget, and he and Accent on Cincinnati have been producing TCT’s annual galas and fundraisers.

Too much is never enough for this incredible event designer, who’s not afraid to shake things up and has a never-ending reservoir of ideas. Joe came to Cincinnati via the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music’s musical theatre program. He has always had a very performance-based mentality and loves theatre.

We caught up with Joe, and here’s what he had to say:

“Cincinnati is fortunate to have such a thriving arts scene – and sometimes TCT is overlooked. It should be considered an anchor in our arts community as it is often one of the first touchpoints of live performance for many of our area’s children.  And the work is more than just the MainStage productions – it reaches wide into the community.”

He continues: “Always a love for theatre of all kinds – What impresses me most about Children’s Theatre is the production level and creativity of each production.  It is awe-inspiring.”

“TCT goes above and beyond with the quality of each production – so visually stimulating that wows kids from the moment they step into the theatre – as well as wonderful storytelling that really engages its audiences.”

“With so many of us with our faces buried in phones, it is imperative that organizations like TCT thrive in our community. It goes beyond entertainment:  it touches you like no movie or television show could. TCT embodies the magic of theatre – on all levels – for all ages.”

“My involvement with Children’s Theatre began over 25 years ago – when I appeared in two productions: THE LEGEND OF SLEEPY HOLLOW and CINDERELLA. Fast forward 20 years, and I find myself involved again – this time behind the scenes helping with the annual gala fundraisers.”

Would you honor Joe Rigotti with a gift to recognize the impact made on TCT?


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