Polkadots: The Cool Kids Musical
February 27 – April 30, 2027
Book by Melvin Tinstall III
Music by Greg Dean Borowsky & Douglas Lyons
Lyrics by Douglas Lyons
Directed & Choreographed By Tosha Marie
Music Direction by Dee Hammonds
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This modern, highly acclaimed, family-friendly musical is inspired by Civil Rights pioneers Ruby Bridges and The Little Rock Nine. It centers on 8-year-old Lily Polkadot, who faces bullying as the first Polkadot in an all-Square school, promoting themes of acceptance and friendship. An upbeat and accessible way into an important history lesson with a colorful reminder that our differences are what make us all cool kids.
Show Length
Recommended Ages
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ALL shows at NCT are Sensory Friendly. Learn more about our accessibility options.
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Social Story
A Social Story is a tool to help improve a child’s understanding of expectations during an unfamiliar event. They were originally designed to support neurodivergent individuals. However, this can be a useful tool for any person who is unsure about what to expect from a new experience.
Cast & Crew
Meet the people behind the production.
Will Farris ( Stage Manager)
Nikki Staggs
Dylan Pearsons
Ensemble
Alaina Bozarth
Ensemble
Sejal Mehta
Miep
Garris Wimmer
Mr. Dussel
Kenny Dozier
Mr. van Daan
Charlotte Myhre Shealy
Margot Frank
Shelby Talbert
Anne Frank
Tamiko Robinson Steele
Mrs. van Daan
Sarah Michele Bailey
Step Mother
Curtis LeMoine
Fuzzy
Abby Austin
ASM/PA
Hannah Boner
Stage Manager
Meggan Utech
Step Sister
Jordan Tudor
Step Sister
Maya Riley
Ella
LaDarra Jackel
Mama
Abe Reybold
Director/Choreographer
Ernie Nolan
Director/ Choreographer
James Rudolph II
Miss Gulch/ Wicked Witch of the West
Piper Jones
Darlene, The Duck
Eve Petty
Chick, The Chicken
Erika Johnson
Clarissa, The Cow
Richard Daniel
Multiple Roles
Jonah Jackson
Toto/ Nikko/ Multiple Roles
Jennifer Whitcomb-Oliva
Cowardly Lion
Gerold Oliver
Tinman
Matthew Carlton
Uncle Henry/ Multiple Roles
Megan Murphy Chambers
Prof. Marvel/Wizard
Shelby Smith
Dorothy Gale
Corrie Maxwell
Aunt Em/Glinda
Ben Friesen
Scarecrow
Dustin Davis
Farmer Brown
Will Farris ( Stage Manager)
Nikki Staggs
Dylan Pearsons
Ensemble
Alaina Bozarth
Ensemble
Sejal Mehta
Miep
Garris Wimmer
Mr. Dussel
A Transformational Experience Awaits You!
Pick a Day for Your Play
Each NCT production schedules a Neuro-Inclusive Performance, ASL Interpreted Performance, and Discovery Day (Post Show Q&A) so everyone can enjoy.
Before You Take Your Seat
Unique preshow lobby activities that explore the show's themes are available for the entire family to enjoy an hour before every performance.
Not a Bad Seat in the House
Whether you're tall or small, there's not a bad seat in the auditorium. Booster seats are available so everyone can see the magic.
What To Expect
Accessibility
NCT is completely wheelchair accessible, and we make accommodations for mobility and physical disabilities.
Attention Aids
We always us visual schedules - so students know what to expect. We also include access to sand timers, bubble timers, and visual clock timers.
Chill Corner
Our ‘chill corner’ is a place where students can take a break if an game is becoming too over-stimulating. Noise-reducing headphones are also available.
Helpful Visuals
We always us visual schedules - so students know what to expect. We also include access to sand timers, bubble timers, and visual clock timers.
Class Expectations
All classes utilize verbal as well as discussed written expectations so students understand classroom behavioral expectations
Class Nametags
All class nametags are printed in the color and have the name of the class color printed on them for colorblind students.
Convenient Location
We're located just a few blocks from Downtown Nashville, near hotels, restaurants, and other popular attractions.
Free Parking
From minivans to caravans, we have space for you in our dedicated lot. Parking is always free and easy at NCT.
Accessibility
NCT is completely wheelchair accessible, and we make accommodations for mobility and physical disabilities.
For Educators
Ready for a field trip you can enjoy just as much as your students? We make field trips easy and fun for EVERYONE, especially teachers.
Our Other Productions
Find quality theatre experiences for all ages and skill levels.
