The Dixie Celebrates 20 Years of Arts Education with Education Series

The Dixie Carter Performing Arts Center announces the lineup for its 20th Season Education Series, continuing a proud tradition of enriching the lives of West Tennessee students through live theatre and performing arts. With offerings for learners from Pre-K through 12th grade, the 2025–2026 series blends literature, science, history, and imagination to support educators and engage young audiences across the region.

This milestone season includes nine diverse performances, each paired with classroom connections and optional study guides to support learning beyond the theatre walls. Performances begin in October 2025 and run through March 2026.

2025–2026 Education Series Lineup:

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow — Monday, October 20, 9 and 11 a.m. Grades 4–Adult. Language Arts, History and Character Education. A spooky and faithful retelling of Washington Irving’s classic, just in time for Halloween.

Bethel University Renaissance Theatre presents Newsies — Wednesday, November 5, 9:30 a.m. Grades 11–12 and Theatre Groups. Literature, Music, Drama, and History. This high-energy Broadway favorite, based on the 1899 Newsboys Strike, encourages students to stand strong and speak up.
Sponsored by Huntingdon Insurance / S&S Insurance.

I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas — Tuesday, November 25, 9 and 11 a.m. Grades K–6. ELA, Science, Theatre and Music. A heartwarming holiday tale set in the Cincinnati Zoo, filled with hope, family, and festive cheer.

Doktor Kaboom! Look Out! Science is Coming! — Wednesday, December 3, 9 and 11 a.m. Grades 3–7. Science, Theatre, and Health. An explosive and hilarious introduction to scientific thinking from the one-and-only Doktor Kaboom. Sponsored by Carroll Bank & Trust.

Aesop’s Fables — Wednesday, January 28, 9 and 11 a.m. PreK–Adult. Literature, Science, and History. A dynamic, theatrical adaptation of classic fables, with timeless life lessons and engaging characters.

Let It Shine: Civil Rights Movement — Thursday, January 29, 9 and 11 a.m. Grades 3–Adult. Black History, History, and Social Studies. This powerful production brings key Civil Rights figures and events to life through storytelling and song. Sponsored by Carroll Bank & Trust.

Hare and Tortoise — Wednesday, February 11, 9 and 11 a.m. PreK–3rd. Language Arts, Science, and Social/Emotional Learning. A lively and music-filled retelling of the classic fable that celebrates friendship, patience, and perseverance. Sponsored by Tippitt Farms & Renfroe Farms.

The Giver — Thursday, February 26, 9 and 11 a.m. Grades 7–12. Literature, Social Studies, and Science. A moving stage adaptation of Lois Lowry’s award-winning novel exploring memory, freedom, and individuality.
Sponsored by West TN Public Utility District.

The Jungle Book — Wednesday, March 11, 9 and 11 a.m. Grades K–4. Literature, Geography, Social Skills. The Panto Company USA brings Kipling’s beloved story to life with vibrant costumes, music, and excitement.
Sponsored by FirstBank.

Tennessee Arts Commission STS Grant Applications Open August 12 — Educators planning to attend with their students are encouraged to apply for the Student Ticket Subsidy (STS) Grant through the Tennessee Arts Commission, which helps cover the cost of tickets and transportation. The grant application portal opens Tuesday, August 12, and funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Early application is strongly encouraged.

“This 20th season is more than a celebration—it’s a recommitment to our region’s students and teachers,” said Trudy Radford, Education Coordinator at The Dixie. “We’re proud to provide programming that not only entertains but also supports classroom learning and sparks imagination.” Tickets are on sale now at DixiePAC.net for school systems and will go on sale Mon, August 4, at 10A CT for individuals and homeschool groups. Student tickets are $12 each and teacher/parent tickets are $15 each. A complimentary teacher ticket is given for every 10 student tickets purchased.

Visit DixiePAC.net or contact The Dixie’s Box Office, M-F, 10-4, 731.986.2100, for the full series details, grade recommendations, and study guides. For STS grant information, visit tnartscommission.org.