By Mimi Schultz, Fantasy Theatre Factory This year, Fantasy Theatre Factory (FTF) celebrated 30 years of partnership with Miami-Dade County Public Schools. Since 1982, FTF has created original quality educational theatre programs for children – reaching 150,000 children annually. Many FTF programs emphasize environmental and literacy education.

Through Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ Cultural Passport program, nearly 7,000 first grade students have attended FTF performances of The Never Everglades – a Fairytale of Environmental Proportions. Performances were offered at the Robert Russell Theatre in Kendall.

The Never Everglades is an interactive theatre show that uses life-size feathered birds and colorful fairytale characters. FTF commissioned Florida playwright, Gina Montet to weave together multiple fairy tales to create this original Florida eco-comedy about protecting the environment.

Fantasy Theatre Factory knows that children are our greatest natural resource. Through wacky humor, FTF programs speak directly to them – dynamically engaging students. Children indentify with the characters and actively participate during the shows to help overcome the environmental menace. Through this identification, as well as the magic of theater, students gain a better understanding of how one individual can take an active and meaningful role in helping to solve problems that we face today. These experiences provide an effective tool for implementing change in thought and action.

Educational workshops followed each show to further knowledge and to challenge each student to take a step toward a more “green” lifestyle. Children learn how they can positively impact our environment – both now and for the future. The children of today are the policy-makers of tomorrow.

Fantasy Theatre Factory has 13 different programs that travel into the community. The company performs in theatres, schools community centers, libraries and more. For more information on booking a program call 305-284-8800, visit us online or email