
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.

Skip Merten is The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati’s longest-serving Board Member. He joined the TCT Board as a Trustee in 1987 and served as the first male Board President from 1990 until 1992. He was immediate Past President and was very instrumental in developing TCT from an all-volunteer organization to the organization it is today. Mr. Merten says that growth began when the Board hired Jack Louiso to become TCT’s Artistic Director in 1993.
Mr. Merten was Senior Enterprise Solutions Account Executive at RR Donnelley where he worked since September of 2012. He retired last month. Prior to that, he worked in the printing business for The Merten Company for 38 years. He is a graduate of Miami University. He and his wife Lane have five grown children (including two sets of twins) and nine grandchildren (eight boys and one girl).
Mr. Merten continues to be a leader on the TCT Board today, and also serves on the Cincinnati Ballet and Media Heritage Boards. In the past, he also served on the Cincinnati Park Foundation Board as well as the Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati Board. As a child, Mr. Merten attended performances by The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati at the Emery Theatre.

Mr. Merten says: “When I first joined The Children’s Theatre, it had recently broken off from Junior League. I later became President of the Board – and I was the first male president for TCT! During my presidency, I was able to see TCT go from a bunch of volunteers to a working non-profit. One thing that I love about TCT is that we have built a theatre that, in my opinion, is second to none in the country.”
He continues: “Though our shows are only an hour long and directed toward a younger audience, it is still exceptionally professional. Our theatre experience is special for all ages – children and adults. It has been so fun to see this organization grow over the years.”
Would you honor Skip Merten with a gift to recognize the impact made on TCT?