Kunes Auto Group Presents Car Convos: Davenport Junior Theatre and the 2024 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum

In this Car Convo:

• 2:09 - Who's the clown?
• 16:10 - What is improv?
• 28:27 - The audience makes the show!
• 38:33 - How was COVID?
• 42:20 - Now, let's flip the script!

Today, we’re cruising through Davenport, Iowa, in the stunning 2024 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum, chatting with Daniel Sheridan, the Performing Arts Supervisor at Davenport Junior Theatre. 

Daniel’s journey with the Davenport Junior Theatre began unexpectedly when he won a free class session as a kid. This serendipitous start in 1994, at just ten years old, led him down a path of lifelong involvement with the theatre. He remained connected through his college years and took the lead in 2008. Over the past 15 years, Daniel has witnessed the theatre's phenomenal growth and impact, echoing the unforeseeable journey life often presents.

The Davenport Junior Theatre, founded in 1951, holds the prestigious title of America’s second oldest children's theatre. With a core principle of “Theatre for Kids, by Kids,” it was created to give children in the Quad-City Area a platform for artistic expression. The theatre has continually evolved, introducing programs in musical and technical theatre, performing arts camps, and a dance program in 2011. These expansions highlight the theatre’s commitment to accessible, joyous, and non-competitive learning in the arts. The facility itself has seen significant improvements, reinforcing its role as a beacon for arts education.

Under Daniel's guidance, the theatre has flourished, growing from 300 to over 2,000 enrollments. The heart of the theatre’s appeal is its mainstage productions, free to the public and entirely run by children – from actors to technicians. These shows are not only entertainment, but also a testament to the children’s hard work and teamwork. The adults take a step back, allowing the kids to lead, fostering independence and collaboration.

The theatre’s core mission revolves around instilling confidence, creativity, and essential life skills in children. The Junior Theatre has become a community pillar, connecting families and nurturing young talents. 

The essence of Davenport Junior Theatre lies in its all-encompassing approach. It's not just about acting; children learn every aspect of theatre production, fostering inclusivity and mutual respect. The theatre also focuses on accessibility, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy the arts. This inclusive spirit extends to its dance program and community involvement, like the shoe exchange program, demonstrating the theatre’s commitment to supporting every child’s journey in the arts.

Daniel’s love for theatre transcends local boundaries. With experience in improv and acting from the University of Connecticut to Comedy Sports, he’s now back in the Quad Cities, contributing significantly to the performing arts scene. His journey reflects the transformative power of arts and community involvement.

Daniel and his team’s dedication to offering diverse, inclusive theatre and dance programs has resonated deeply within the community. They cater to a wide age range, starting as young as three years old, ensuring that each class is age-appropriate and offers a rich, personalized experience. Their small class sizes and extended session lengths exemplify their commitment to quality and impactful teaching.

The pandemic posed significant challenges, but the Davenport Junior Theatre turned these into opportunities for innovation and outreach. Transitioning to online programs, they engaged over 300 kids, highlighting their adaptability and commitment to their mission. The return to in-person sessions was cautious and creative, with outdoor productions and a renewed focus on intentional, mission-driven programming.

To discover more about Davenport Junior Theatre and how to get involved, visit their website below.

And for a firsthand experience of the dynamic and safe 2024 Nissan Pathfinder Platinum, come to Kunes Nissan of Davenport, where your driving dreams become a reality!