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Where actors bloom

A Staten Island institution since 1962. A nonprofit run by people who grew up on its stage. A place where the point was never just the show.

Our mission

Confidence first. Applause second.

We inspire young performers of all backgrounds to develop self-confidence and positive mental health while receiving professional training in musical theatre.

We promote a love of theatre and bring joy to our community through theatre education and theatrical performances. Our classes invite students ages 4 to 18 to train and perform in a nurturing, supportive environment at every level of experience. We work to create a place where students become more than friends. They become family.

The Staten Island Children's Theatre Association, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization celebrating its 64th season of live theatre for families and aspiring young performers.

A young performer singing in Oklahoma!
Ages 4 to 18From first storybook to full production.

Our story

Sixty-four seasons

Generations of Staten Island kids have grown up here. A few milestones along the way.

The original SICTA logo, Where Actors Bloom

Our original logo, and the line that still describes us best.

The first season

The Staten Island Children's Theatre Association is founded to bring live theatre to Island families and give kids a stage of their own.

Rosemarie Callahan joins as a teacher

A Wagner College theatre major and community theatre lead, Rosemarie starts teaching and soon becomes Artistic Director of the 9 to 18 year old program.

The Musical Theatre Program begins

The advanced program that still runs today launches its first season. It reaches its 41st in 2026.

Recognized by the community

Rosemarie receives the Captain Randall Community Service Award at Snug Harbor's Neptune Ball and the Minty Award for Community Enrichment.

Incorporated as a nonprofit

SICTA becomes a 501(c)(3) with Rosemarie as President, formalizing decades of work and opening the door to donors and grants.

Carrying the legacy forward

After Rosemarie's passing in September, her daughter Melissa Rivas and longtime director Billy Piscopo lead the program, joined by a staff full of SICTA alumni.

Season 64

Eight classes, two productions, and a campaign with Snug Harbor to dedicate Studio G201 in Rosemarie's name.

Where we work

At home at Snug Harbor

Every class is held on the grounds of Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden, 1000 Richmond Terrace, Building G, 2nd Floor Dance Studios.

The full company on stage after Beauty and the Beast, Jr.
Curtain call, Disney's Beauty and the Beast, Jr. Every class ends on a stage like this one.
Classes
Snug Harbor Cultural Center
1000 Richmond Terrace, Building G, 2nd Floor
Staten Island, NY 10301
Performances
South Richmond High School, 6581 Hylan Blvd
Williamson Theatre, CSI Center for the Arts, 2800 Victory Blvd
Getting here
From the ferry, the S40 bus stops at Snug Harbor in about 10 minutes. Free parking on site. Map and directions

Help the next generation bloom.

SICTA is a 501(c)(3). Every gift is tax deductible and goes straight to the stage.