BETHLEHEM, PA—-The Lehigh Valley Charter High School for the Arts (Charter Arts) Theatre Department will kick off its 2026-2027 season with a production of Lillian Hellman’s landmark drama, “The Children’s Hour“, October 23-25, 2026.
First performed in 1934, Hellman’s powerful play explores the devastating consequences of a malicious student’s false accusation against two teachers, whose lives and reputations are irrevocably destroyed.
The production is directed by Diane Wagner and features an exceptional cast.
Wagner shares: “When we worked on The Children’s Hour in a scene study class, it was clear how much our students responded to it. They were eager to sink their teeth into a drama, and this play seemed an excellent fit. Our talented young actors have approached the play with bravery, taking on challenging characters and circumstances with admirable depth and sophistication.”
Evening Performances October 23 & 24 at 7 PM. Matinee performance October 25 at 2 PM. Reserved Seating Tickets are $8-$14. Purchase online at CharterArts.org.
“The Children’s Hour (Hellman)” is presented by special arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Dramatists Play Service.
ABOUT THE CHARTER ARTS THEATRE DEPARTMENT:
The Charter Arts Theatre Department offers a pre-professional training program for high school-aged performers. The goal is to provide students with the skills they will need to move on to competitive college programs as well as professional theatre experiences.
Classes are designed to encourage students to create imaginative and compelling characters, to regard their voices and bodies as creative instruments, to expose them to theatrical literature and to instill in them a sense of respect and professionalism for the art form that will stay with them throughout their lives.
ABOUT THE LEHIGH VALLEY CHARTER HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS (Charter Arts):
Charter Arts is an audition-based public charter high school, funded by Pennsylvania taxpayer dollars, designed for students who have a dedicated passion for the creative or performing arts. With seven artistic majors and a rigorous academic curriculum, students thrive both artistically and academically at a nationally recognized, award-winning school. The school is currently ranked:
#1 Best Charter High School in PA- Niche
#1 Best Public High School Teachers in PA – Niche
Top 100 Public High Schools in PA – U.S. News & World Report
Charter Arts is more than just a school—it’s a vibrant, dynamic community where creativity thrives and young artists are empowered to reach their full potential.
Charter Arts has been part of the Bethlehem community since its inception in 2003 and, for the past decade, has been proudly rooted in the heart of the city’s Southside Arts District at 321 East 3rd Street.
Information provided to TVL by:
Ann Gillette
