In the year 2000, the Board of Directors of the Arcadia Theater expanded their mission to include the cultural needs of the children of the Greater Johnstown and surrounding regions through live children’s theater. The “Coal-ala-Bear” Series name was derived to honor the coal heritage of Windber, PA (home of the Arcadia Theater). In 2001, the Whalley Charitable Trust made a commitment to support the series, and they continue to support our mission to bring educate and entertain the children of our region through live theater. In 2013, the Missoula Children’s Theater camp was added to the series. Every July, this theater camp gives area children the opportunity to direct and perform in a play.
