Our History

The first Summer Theater Workshop was held in 1996, with the collaborative support of the NC State Arts Council and the Pamlico County Arts Council, when The Old Theater renovation was complete. Founder, Patti Higginbottom (a member of The Old Theater's Pelican Players troupe) sought guidance from Dr. Patricia Clark, head of the drama department at East Carolina University, as the mentor to help with the structor of the program.

Ms. Patti brought Mershon West from Charlotte to Pamlico County for the first four years of Children's Theater Workshop's Summer Theater Program. After that, many exceptional and talented theater arts educators have held the position of Drama Coach of the Summer Theater Workshop.

"Children's Theater Workshop held its first season the recently refurbished Old Theater in July of 1996. As a grass roots volunteer effort, we were able to hire a degreed teacher of theater arts, with a grant from North Carolina Arts Council and matching funds from local businesses from the first year. Having a high quality drama coach is key to our mission. The program began with guidance from Dr Patricia Clark, head of the drama department at East Carolina University, as our mentor and guide. The first few years saw increased interest and we changed our structure to it's present format that can accommodate 75-80 students in appropriate class groupings. Our hope is to provide this summer enrichment program for all who wish to attend at the lowest possible cost in this county where there is no drama exposure in the schools and where the per capita income is at the poverty level. We do this by asking local businesses and residents to support our mission with contributions."

Patti at Summer Theater Workshop 7-2019.jpg

Patti at End of Workshop Swim Party 7-2016.jpg

Patti and Jim Higginbottom at Live Nativity.jpg