Playtime Poppy Children’s Theatre
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Engagement
Playtime Poppy Children’s Theatre is a beloved cultural organization in Cedar Rapids, IA. Cedar Rapids natives and residents of all ages often quickly recall their Playtime Poppy memories about our “happy little ear of corn.” Through the support of donors, foundations, corporate sponsors, and volunteers, Playtime Poppy Children’s Theatre shares engaging theatre and educational programming. Playtime Poppy has educated generations of children and families throughout the community and beyond.
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Education
Playtime Poppy's Teaching Artists will be partnering with Cedar Rapids elementary schools this year to share in classroom programs One Great Line and Book Adventures, as well as Operation Backstage and Summer Theatre Adventure. All in-classroom and community outreach programs are offered to all, without any participation cost. Dedicated to supporting a lifetime love of theatre, Playtime Poppy Children’s Theatre also offers college scholarships to high school seniors who have participated enthusiastically in theatre.
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Entertainment
Playtime Poppy loves to sing and dance and play. Our 2024-25 season will include one-hour interactive theatre productions in partnership with Cedar Rapids Jefferson, Kennedy, and Washington high schools, with all-student cast and crews. Special matinee performances of each of our high school productions will be offered to K-5 classrooms and patrons with special needs. Watch our Facebook page and website for updates. We look forward to seeing YOU at children's theatre this year!
June 22-26, 2026:
Summer Theatre Adventure: The Seeds of Our Story, at the Eastern Iowa ARTS Academy.
October, 2026:
Jefferson High School Production, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
December, 2026:
Kennedy High School Production: Shrek the Musical Jr.
April, 2027:
Washington High School Production: The Reluctant Dragon
We also partner with the Cedar Rapids School District to bring our arts-integrated programming to our community’s elementary students.
“Thank you for the 2023 Playtime Poppy scholarship. I have been so honored to learn and grow in Poppy’s world, and I am grateful to have grown up in a community of magic makers and artists. Thank you for all of your encouragement and support, and I’m proud to say that I’m for Poppy!“
Max Cline, 2023 Playtime Poppy Scholarship Recipient
“We’re so proud to have uniquely called Cedar Rapids our home since 1951, and we’re excited to keep singing, dancing and playing.”
Jim Miller, Playtime Poppy Board Interim Treasurer