"The Montreal Children's Theatre founded and run by Dorothy Davis and Violet Walters presented, in its 60 years of existence, over 700 stage productions to more than a quarter of a million children. The founders, influenced by the British tradition of commercial theatre, emphasized the acquisition of acting skills, which they believed released the personality of the child and fostered self-expression. Although training for the professional stage was not a primary goal, many of their pupils entered the profession as actors, drama teachers, film directors, or in other areas of theatre. For these reasons, the writer believes that the Montreal Children's Theatre has been a strong influence and a guiding force in the education of children to the world of theatre, and in the building of an English-speaking audience in Montreal."

"Over 10,000 Montrealers have enjoyed classes at The Children's Theatre since the school was founded in 1933 by Dorothy Davis and Violet Walters. Some have gone onto professional careers in motion pictures, television and the stage. Many have obtained roles in TV and radio commercials both as children and adults."

Timeline

• 1933-1991 - Founded in 1933 by Violet Walters and Dorothy Davis, both now deceased.
• 1991-Present - Run by Shelia April, until recently and now run by Leigh Janson Cooke.

Notable alumni

• William Shatner
  William Shatner
  William Alan Shatner is a Canadian actor, musician, recording artist, and author. He gained worldwide fame and became a cultural icon for his portrayal of James T...
  
   - Actor (including starring in Star Trek; T.J.Hooker; Boston Legal)
• Ben Mulroney
  Ben Mulroney
  Benedict Martin Paul "Ben" Mulroney is a Canadian television host, and is the son of former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney.-Early life:...
  
   - Canadian Idol Host - Son of Former Canadian Prime Minister Brian Mulroney
  Brian Mulroney
  Martin Brian Mulroney, was the 18th Prime Minister of Canada from September 17, 1984, to June 25, 1993 and was leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada from 1983 to 1993. His tenure as Prime Minister was marked by the introduction of major economic reforms, such as the Canada-U.S...
  
  
• Pat Donnelly - Montreal Gazette Theatre Critic

External links

• The Children's Theatre
• Dorothy Davis
• William Shatner discussing his experiences at the Montreal Children's Theatre (includes pictures of a younger D.Davis and V. Walters)
• "Instant French" 1965 movie by the National Film Board of Canada - Cast includes Dorothy Davis and Violet Walters
• Article in the Canadian Jewish News (August 16, 2007) by Elaine Cohen on Page B11 about the Montreal Children's Theatre