It is that time of year once again: the third Saturday in March is coming, when you can be sure it’s Spring—and time for Super Saturday!  

 

Put March 16 on your calendar for the entertainment and fun on Melrose Avenue that generations of area children have loved for more than 40 years. This year, the Children’s Theater Festival is paying tribute to the memory of Joe Wray, one of those special people who started Tryon’s unique festival in 1979. 

 

A theater lover from his childhood, when he produced plays in his backyard, Joe spent much of his adult life pursuing his passions for the arts and for broadening the experiences of his students. His desire to strengthen community bonds through the performing arts was in no small part a driving force behind the creation of Super Saturday. With that first Super Saturday, Joe and other teachers and artists on the original CTF board realized their dream of bringing first-rate performers to the children of this small community, and the CTF board is proud to carry on their legacy. CTF is grateful for Joe’s role in bringing artists and community together for the lasting benefit of our children.  

 

This year, as in Wray’s day, you’ll find big-name acts in the world of children’s performance arts: Kattam and his high-energy tour of exotic percussion instruments; Porkchop Productions with yet another of their cracked and hilarious versions of a beloved children’s story; Greg Kennedy and his innovative adaptations of juggling standards. You’ll find storytelling from the likes of David Novak and puppeteer Hobey Ford. You’ll witness dance that defies description from Soul Street. You’ll enjoy a visit to New Orleans with Jazzy Ash and the Leaping Lizards. And there’s hapless magician Mr. Whizzpop, a bubble circus from a certified Bubbleologist, and cute baby dinosaurs that travel through time. Really, could you ask for more?  

 

But there is more, of course! Be sure to check out the local dancers and musicians on the Community Stage just outside TFAC. Enjoy Peoplechase, dancing with ComMotion, and caricatures on Melrose. Keep an eye out for Superstar Stilts and Super Saturday’s favorite paper cutter, Mr. Cheng. Get your picture taken at Mara’s Photo Booth. And when you’re hungry, grab some lunch from community organizations at the food court.  

 

Just make sure you’re ready for the parade down Melrose at 12:30. “Magic on Melrose” is the theme this year, so come prepared! 

 

As Wray would have wished, tickets to main-stage performances remain very affordable and tend to sell out quickly. They will be on sale to the general public starting March 12 in the TFAC lobby.   

 

Find out more about performers and other details on our website, tryonsupersaturday.com.