Lighthouse Children’s Theatre (LCT) 2026 Production coming soon

By Teresa Lyness

As we move closer to the June 26-28 production dates, all of the Lighthouse Children’s Theatre board members are hard at work getting ready, but probably none more so than the directors. Since our community is so fortunate to have these talented individuals pouring their knowledge into our youth, over the next few articles, I’d like to introduce them to you. Let’s begin with El Dorado Springs native, Shayne Daniel.

Shayne graduated from El Dorado Springs High School in 1985, after which, he enlisted in the U.S. Army. After his service, he attended the University of Central Missouri where he earned his Masters of Arts Degree with an emphasis in Theatre and Direction. He taught high school theatre at St. Joseph Central from 1995-2000 and then at Lee’s Summit North from 2000-2020. During that time he garnered several awards and recognitions which included Missouri State Theatre Teacher of the Year in 2008; Starlight Theatre’s award as Best Director and Outstanding Overall Productions in both 2004 and 2008. He was selected as the Missouri All-State Director in 2010 to direct the state production of Jekyll & Hyde which was then selected for performance at the International Festival in 2011. His 2014 production of Tarzan was one of three productions selected for performance at the State Festival held at The Music Hall in Kansas City.

Upon retiring, Shayne returned to his home town. Meantime, the Covid years brought a devastating demise to LCT, leaving it with only one active board member, Kim Cox. In the summer of 2022, using the resources they had, Kim and Shayne managed a successful Wizard of Oz production. This sparked interest, adding new board members each year since. Four productions later, today the board is gratefully filled with 11 generous volunteers each filling a specific need they are gifted in.

Like all our board members, Shayne’s role is completely voluntary. We are so blessed and grateful for his generosity and passion for wanting to provide the young people of this community with an artistic outlet. Community, please help us express our appreciation by packing the house for each performance this year. For the first time ever, LCT will be bringing the community two productions for the price of one – The Lion King Kids and Legally Blonde The Musical Jr. For just a $5 advance ticket or $6 at the door, you will see two back-to-back amazing performances. Held at the El Dorado Springs R-II Old Gym on June 26, 27 and 28. Purchase advance tickets from any cast member or at The Home Store in downtown El Dorado Springs. More information visit https://www.facebook.com/lctofeldo/events.