Theatre Roundtable Hosts First Annual CENTRAL OHIO THEATRE CONFERENCE Today

The Central Ohio Theatre Roundtable has announced the very first Central Ohio Theatre Conference. Theatre fanatics will gather to learn, discuss and celebrate theatre at this one-of-a-kind conference today, April 11, 2015. The conference will feature educational breakout sessions for performers, producers and directors, as well as discussions with Broadway stars and national touring artists.

"Many theatre professionals and hobbyists travel hundreds of miles to attend conferences like this one," says Committee Chair Ryan Scarlata. "We are thrilled to have the opportunity to bring the community together for this incredible experience."

Topping the bill are the national guest artists at the conference. Award winning composing team Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (A Christmas Story, Edges, Dogfight, James and the Giant Peach and NBC's SMASH), Broadway's Kate Rockwell (Bring It On, Rock of Ages, Legally Blonde) and national touring performer Kristopher Thompson-Bolden (The Book of Mormon, Billy Elliot, Anything Goes). These artists will speak and teach throughout the conference and perform in concert later in the evening.

Local special guests who will be leading the conference include Ruby Harper (Greater Columbus Arts Council), Peter Yokel (Short North Stage), Laurie Lathan (Columbus Children's Theatre), and Emily Kirtland (freelance vocal coach). The Keynote Speaker is currently to be determined.

Lastly, the conference will also include an expo of local theatres, agencies, photographers, colleges, universities and training programs. The expo is free to the public and is perfect for central Ohio citizens who want to learn more about theatre in their community. Theatre organizations and other vendors may register for a booth in the expo by visiting www.COTC2015.com/Vendors.

The Central Ohio Theatre Conference will be held on Saturday, April 11 at the King Avenue United Methodist Church, 299 King Ave, Columbus, OH 43201. Pre-registration is required. Visit www.COTC2015.com for exact schedule, pricing and online registration.