About the Artist/Ensemble
The Barter Players company has been creating Theater for Young Audiences (TYA) programming for over thirty years, performing both on tour and at their artistic home at Barter Theatre, one of the longest-running repertory theaters in the country. Comprised of young professional artists from across the country, The Barter Players company is passionate about utilizing theater as a tool for education and social impact, creating performances and experiences that speak to the imaginations of young people through exceptional performances, incredible storytelling, and timeless themes.
As Barter is committed to utilizing theater as a vehicle for education, Virginia learning standards are directly tied into each play and are listed in a free companion study guide, available with additional helpful materials at bartertheatre.com. Free actor talkback sessions and interactive opportunities allow students to interact with the actors and learn more about the art of theater, and, during the Spring Tour, performance workshops for pre-K through college are available to students and teachers immediately following performances. Workshops are adapted to the age level of the students and provide hands-on learning of the same theatrical tools and exercises used by the actors.
Concert/Performance Description
Holiday 2026 – Frosty
From November through December 2026, the Barter Players will present the original musical Frosty, a family-friendly show written by Barter’s resident playwright, Catherine Bush, with music by Dax Dupuy. The play has been a year-over-year success at venues of all sizes, leaving a lasting impression on students and their families alike. Inspired by the classic tale, Frosty follows a young orphan named Billy who discovers magic in a stolen hat when he places it on a snowman’s head and that snowman comes to life. The two embark on a thrilling journey through New York City at Christmastime as they attempt to find Billy’s real family and discover a truer meaning of Christmas.
Company Size: 7 (6 Actors and 1 Stage Manager)
Holiday 2026 – I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas
From November through December 2026, The Barter Players will present the Barter original musical I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas. This heartwarming musical adventure centers on Lois Jean, a zookeeper’s daughter, and Bella, a beloved hippopotamus at the Ypsilanti Zoo. Hippo is full of memorable characters, catchy songs, and an uplifting message. The world premiere 2025 tour was a hit with its audiences, with over 16,000 patrons of all ages seeing the play across the nation.
Company Size: 7 (6 Actors and 1 Stage Manager)
Spring 2027 – Peter Pan
From January through March 2027, audiences will fly with The Barter Players to Neverland in a thrilling adaptation of Peter Pan. Featuring all the characters you know and love, this fresh adaptation is brought to life with six quick-changing actors and will be presented at performance venues of all sizes. Filled with Lost Boys, pirates, and a man-eating crocodile, this an adventure you will never forget!
Company Size: 7 (6 Actors and 1 Stage Manager)
Technical Requirements
Minimal / Varies with the performance venue
Educational Programs
The Barter Players on Tour offer production-specific study guides aligned to VA SOLs that can be used in public, private, and home school settings. The Players on Tour also meet with young audiences pre and post-show through meet and greets and actor talkbacks. This allows young audience members to meet the cast as friends before they meet them as artists, then come back together in community and discuss the show, leading to more lasting and meaningful connections.