News Summary
The Savannah Children’s Theatre is initiating a community fundraising campaign to secure a permanent home at the Star Castle, aiming to raise $500,000 by October 2025. This is in response to their previous location sustaining damage from a winter storm, which has impacted their operations. The Star Castle, currently featuring entertainment facilities, is vital for the theatre’s future. Community support has been strong, with local organizations and students fundraising creatively to assist SCT through this transition.
Savannah – The Savannah Children’s Theatre (SCT) is making significant strides toward acquiring a permanent home at the Star Castle, a well-known landmark in the city since 1984. To achieve this goal, the theatre is launching a community fundraising effort, aiming to raise $500,000 by October 1, 2025. The total price for the Star Castle building, which currently features a skating rink, arcade games, and laser tag, is set at $3 million.
Star Castle is scheduled to close at the end of summer 2025, prompting urgency in the fundraising initiative. SCT’s previous location on Victory Drive sustained major damage from a winter storm in January 2025, which affected multiple areas such as the roof, stage, lobby, and costume shop. As a result of this extensive damage, SCT had to suspend all productions.
Prior to the storm, the theatre was preparing for a performance of “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” but the unexpected events have shifted the focus to finding a new permanent venue to stabilize operations. Despite the setbacks, SCT has not wavered in its commitment to serving the community, providing educational opportunities to over 14,000 students through a variety of relocated camps, classes, and field trips across Chatham County.
In response to the increased costs associated with the unexpected relocation—such as truck rentals, portable equipment, and storage units—SCT has seen a rise in operational expenses. These additional financial burdens have caused emotional stress for staff, teachers, and volunteers involved with the theatre, making the need for a permanent space even more pressing.
Community support during this challenging period has been crucial. Various local organizations and schools have stepped in to assist with field trips, classes, and performances, demonstrating a strong backing for the arts in Savannah. Additionally, SCT’s young students have displayed ingenuity by contributing to the SCT Emergency Fund through neighborhood lemonade stands and bake sales.
The artistic team remains optimistic and adaptable in the face of adversity. SCT’s artistic director has highlighted the resilience and dedication of their team as they continue to navigate these difficult circumstances. Moving forward, SCT encourages locals to support their efforts both through donations to the SCT Emergency Fund and by attending their productions.
Upcoming shows at SCT include well-loved classics like “A Christmas Carol” and “Mary Poppins.” Ticket prices and performance locations may vary due to the ongoing logistics of relocating events. Members of the community are urged to stay informed and engaged as the theatre strives to secure its future.
As the fundraising campaign progresses, SCT aims to bring the joy of live theater to Savannah for years to come. With community involvement and support, the beloved theatre organization hopes to transform Star Castle into a vibrant venue for artistic expression and education.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Savannah Children’s Theatre Launches Fundraising Campaign
Savannah Launches Its First Musical Theatre Festival
Savannah Offers a Range of Indoor and Outdoor Activities to Beat the Summer Heat
Genesis Motor America Enhances Youth Education in Coastal Georgia
Savannah Women Who Rule Event Set to Inspire Community
Additional Resources
- Savannah Magazine: The Show Must Go On
- WJCL: Savannah Children’s Theatre Raising Funds
- WSAV: Savannah Children’s Theatre Wants to Rebuild
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Savannah
- WTOC: Savannah Children’s Theatre Presents Legally Blonde Musical
- Google Search: Savannah Children’s Theatre
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
