at the Tall Stacks Festival, 2003.
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.
The Martin Family has been a long-time supporter of The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati since Morgan Martin started performing with TCT in 2001.
Morgan appeared in THE FANTASTIC TOY SHOPPE, in TCT’s Young Adult Series production of August Wilson’s THE PIANO LESSON starring Rocky Carroll, AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS, ANNIE JR., THE WIZARD OF OZ, and TOM SAWYER: AN ORIGINAL MUSICAL. Morgan was also a part of The Children’s Theatre’s STAR Program. Morgan’s mother, Michelle, served on the TCT Board of Directors from 2007 through 2009.
Morgan is the Founder of Live and Believe, a fresh nutrition and fitness concept, and The LAB Fitness in Chicago, offering “Smoothies with Soul” and flexible fitness classes. Morgan and her father, Mike Martin, former professional football wide receiver who played seven seasons for the Cincinnati Bengals), co-own the business. The family’s mission is to help people transform mentally, physically, and spiritually while helping them live a life they love.
We caught up with Morgan and found out more about her TCT connection:
“I first became involved with The Children’s Theatre back when they were running audition ads in the newspaper. My mother saw it and wanted me to go and audition for a show. So I went in and was cast as a dancer – and I have been hooked ever since.”
“Because of my active involvement, my family has also gotten involved at TCT. We have always believed that theatre is so important in education in our family. I remember after shows, when we would have Q&A with the students where they would be able to ask questions about the show or come backstage. So many of the kids were just in awe of how things are really put together. Seeing the magic of the shows, and then being able to come backstage and know that they can be a part of making something as magical as what they just witnessed.”
“TCT was a huge part of my childhood and has also impacted who I am today. They taught me work ethic, creativity, imagination, and collaboration both in your roles and in your life. These lessons have crossed over into my adulthood.”
“I think that especially now, in the age of so much technology, we are missing the magic of live theatre. It is so important for these kids to know that there is more creativity and play beyond what they can see on their TV screens or PS5s. The Children’s Theatre takes play and turns it into a learning and educational experience.”
In 2014, Morgan’s brother Marcus passed away due to a pulmonary embolism. He was 25 years old. In his honor, the Martin Family created The Marcus Martin Foundation, which presents free Youth Football Camps and raises funds for college scholarships.
Would you honor Mike, Michelle, and Morgan Martin with a gift to recognize the impact made on TCT?
TOM SAWYER: A RIVER ADVENTURE (2003) 
NOAH’S ARK (2001) 
THE PIANO LESSON (2001) 
TOM SAWYER: A RIVER ADVENTURE (2003)
