101 Stories: Tonya Vidas

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. 

The Vidas Family

The Vidas Family first became involved with The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati in 2004 when 9-year-old Amalea Vidas participated in TCT’s STAR Program. From that time, she and her sister, Olivia, were very involved performing in MainStage productions as well as  in STAR. 

In 2009, Amalea and Olivia’s mother, Tonya Vidas, began serving as TCT’s Volunteer Coordinator. It was Tonya’s first season working behind the scenes during each of the four  MainStage  productions. The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati depended  on  Tonya to find, recruit, educate and supervise our legion of volunteer ushers at the Taft Theatre.  She led the charge through 2012 when the family moved to Orlando, FL. 

This gift of time is essential to our continued growth – and vital to ensuring the  positive experience of the families  and students we serve. The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati would like to thank  Tonya who donated a tremendous amount of  energy to our cause.   

Mrs. Vidas says: “As a parent, nothing has been more fulfilling than watching our children’s creativity and confidence grow through theatre. From STAR Camp, to shows, to volunteering, our whole family loved being a part of TCT.”  

In 2020, Tonya underwent a double lung transplant after being diagnosed with a severe case of  Bronchiolitis Obliterans: a rare, degenerative, inflammatory condition that affects the lung’s tiniest airways, the bronchioles. According to Amalea, her health changes daily. We are keeping her in our thoughts as she travels the path to recovery. 


After STAR NKU 2011.

Amalea in DISNEY’S THE JUNGLE BOOK KIDS (2010) and Olivia in TCT’s HOLIDAY FOLLIES 2 (2010)

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