To the editor:

As a mom of a 3- and 5-year-old, I am always looking for activities on Whidbey Island that my kids will not only enjoy but hopefully learn from as well.

So, in December, when I read the Whidbey Children’s Theatre was getting ready for their production of “Rudolph” I thought it would be a fun activity for my 5-year-old.

Wow! What our family experienced and observed in the weeks to follow was amazing. Martha Murphy, the founding director of WCT, is truly impacting the lives of these children. Through the use of hands-on learning, each child, regardless of their ability or talent, was given the opportunity to build self-confidence, character, self-expression, discipline and responsibility.

Martha’s dedication to, and love for, each child was amazing, and I strongly believe that she is making a difference one child at a time by stimulating the imagination and creativity of the young people in our community.

Lastly, it was eye-opening to see how much effort goes into making these productions possible. There are unlimited ways in which our community can help. I am sure that the Whidbey Children’s Theatre would welcome volunteers in whatever capacity they are available to help with costumes, sets, fundraising, as well as the many other needs of this wonderful theatre.

CRISTI HUGHES

Greenbank