Kre8ive Fine Arts Academy

10/15/2026

Southern Illinois, we need your help!

Kre8ive is in need of a SET BUILDING, and we're hoping our community can help us find a place to call home!

Over the years, Kre8ive Fine Arts Academy has taken you on some pretty incredible adventures.

We've traveled under the sea, climbed to the rooftops of London, journeyed all the way from Iowa to Russia, wandered through enchanted castles, taken a ride inside a giant peach, followed the Yellow Brick Road to the Land of Oz, and flown all the way to Neverland. We've even set sail aboard the S.S. American!

We've brought stories to life, created memories that last long after the curtain closes, and given children and families a place to dream a little bigger. We've watched young performers discover their confidence, find their voices, make lifelong friendships, and realize that they are capable of far more than they ever imagined.

But behind every magical world our audiences see is a whole lot of work that happens long before opening night. Sets have to be built. Props have to be created. Pieces have to be painted, assembled, and stored. It takes space, time, and a whole lot of creativity to transform an ordinary stage into something extraordinary.

And right now, we need your help finding that space.

We are looking for a building in Marion, Illinois, approximately 40 feet by 80 feet with at least 12 feet of height, or larger, where we can build and store our sets. We are hoping to find a space to rent or a property owner who might consider donating the use of a building or working with us through another charitable arrangement. We need a solution as soon as possible so we can continue creating the worlds our audiences have come to love.

Maybe you own a commercial or industrial building that isn't being used. Maybe you know someone with an available warehouse, shop, or property. Maybe your business has space it could share, or you know someone who might be willing to help us find a solution.

You don't have to own a building to make a difference. Sometimes, all it takes is knowing the right person and being willing to share this post.

Kre8ive exists because of the people who believe that children deserve opportunities to create, perform, explore, and grow. We believe the fine arts belong to everyone, and we want to keep providing a safe, welcoming place where the children of Southern Illinois can discover what they're capable of.

We've spent years helping our community believe in a little bit of magic.

Now, we're asking our community to help us make a little magic of its own.

If you have a space, a connection, an idea, or any information that might help, please reach out to our lead set builder Brice Dion at 618-203-1706 or [email protected].

And please share this post so it reaches someone who might be able to help.

If you would like to make a monetary donation you can do so following this link: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/raise-the-roof-24

With so much gratitude for the community that has brought us this far,

Kre8ive Fine Arts Academy

10/08/2026

Is this what you have been waiting for? REGISTRATION IS LIVE!

If you haven't read our previous posts about what to prepare for auditions or how to navigate the registration process, and what to expect once you click this link, I highly encourage you to do so!

REMEMBER: This show is for current 6th - 12th grade only!

Since online registration through Zeffy is still new to us, I will be monitoring everything this evening until things slow down. If you have any issues at all during the process, please text me at 618-218-6586.

We are thrilled that you will be auditioning for Hadestown! Keep reading for all of the information you need to navigate through the registration process,…

10/08/2026

Anyone else waiting on a certain post to be made? Because I know I am getting excited, too!

While you are over there hitting that refresh button, don’t look back now! Take a few minutes to make sure you are VERY familiar with the posts I have made over the last few days. Everything you need to have a fabulous audition has already been posted, including all the important details. I have also shared how to navigate Zeffy and what to expect when registration opens.

We are talking about a matter of minutes now. Just enough time to make sure you know the way, have all your information ready, and are prepared to take that journey with us.

The road to Hadestown is about to open.

So keep your eyes on this page, keep that refresh button handy, and get ready.

Wait for me... because we’re almost there.

10/07/2026

Let's prepare for registration! Read carefully!

We are thrilled that you will be auditioning for Hadestown! Keep reading for all of the information you need to navigate through the registration process, choose a time slot, and prepare for auditions!

Keep your eyes open....

WHEN Registration Opens, here is what to expect when you click the Zeffy Link:

1- Choose your date & time slot. Please take note of the date and time you choose. Click Add+ for your preferred time slot if it is available. The number of available spots will be listed.
a. The slots will look similar to this:
Nov. 2 6:00 PM
Nov. 3 6:00 PM
Nov. 2 6:05 PM
Nov. 3 6:05 PM

2- If you have two or more children, you will need to click Add+ for each child who is auditioning. There is a multiple child discount code available if it applies to your family:

Two Kids: HERMES2
Three Kids: HERMES3
Four Kids: HERMES4

3- Add Ons.

a. Choose your Dance Audition time. We highly encourage everyone who auditions to participate in Dance Auditions, even if you are not a dancer. If you would like to be considered for a lead role, please attend one of the two Dance Audition opportunities. If you do not wish to participate in a dance audition, simply do not add the Dance Audition ticket.

b. Costume Deposit. There are costume fees associated with this production, which will be explained as you continue through the registration process. You may add this ticket if you would like to pay the costume deposit early. It is not due until 12/5/26.

4- Enter Registration Information.

a. Please enter your information accurately. The phone numbers, email addresses, names, and other information you provide are what we will use to communicate with you.

b. Please note that the Parent Information section may appear to only ask for "Second Parent" information. The parent completing the registration will enter their information later in the process under "Buyer." This allows us to have both parents' information, if applicable. If you do not wish to add a second parent, please leave that section blank.

5- Payment.

a. Payment is collected upfront during registration. It is non-refundable and non-transferable.
b. If your family is experiencing financial hardship, please contact Amy Lynn Francis via text at 618 218 6586 BEFORE registering.

6- Zeffy Donation.

You will see a section that asks for a donation, and Zeffy automatically suggests a percentage to donate. 1) This donation goes to Zeffy, not Kre8ive. 2) If you do not wish to donate to Zeffy, simply click on the donation amount and change it to $0.00.

We use Zeffy whenever possible so that we can avoid the transaction fees charged by other platforms. Zeffy is a free platform for nonprofits, which allows more of your registration dollars to go directly toward supporting our productions.

Thank you for taking the time to read through all of the information and for helping us make the registration process as smooth as possible! We are so excited to begin this journey with you and cannot wait to see everyone at auditions. Break a leg!

10/07/2026

So, what’s the difference anyway?

Hadestown: Teen Edition is the same story as the Broadway production, and the text and storyline of the script remain the same. The characters, plot, themes, and dialogue are all still Hadestown.

The main changes have been made to better accommodate younger performers. Some vocal arrangements have been adjusted to work more comfortably with teen voices and to give more actors opportunities to participate in ensemble moments. In addition, some songs have been transposed into different keys so younger voices can sing the material more easily and smoothly.

In other words, the story is still Hadestown. The Teen Edition simply makes some musical adjustments so that young performers can successfully and comfortably bring that story to the stage.

10/06/2026

Never heard of Hadestown? Keep reading!

So, what exactly is Hadestown?

Hadestown is a modern retelling of two ancient Greek myths: the love stories of Orpheus and Eurydice and Hades and Persephone.

Set in a world inspired by Depression-era America and New Orleans, the story follows Orpheus, a young musician who believes his music can change the world, and Eurydice, a young woman simply trying to survive. When hunger and hardship lead Eurydice to the underworld, Orpheus follows her to Hadestown, a dark industrial world ruled by Hades.

Along the way, we meet Persephone, who longs for the freedom and joy of the world above, Hermes, who guides us through the story, and the Fates, who represent the doubts and fears that can keep us from believing in ourselves.

At its heart, Hadestown is a story about love, hope, sacrifice, freedom and the choice to believe in something even when you already know how the story ends.

And perhaps that’s the most beautiful part of Hadestown:
We tell the story again because maybe this time, it will end differently. ❤️

10/06/2026

Something is coming down the tracks...

We’ve got a little news brewing, and you’re going to want to keep watch.

Audition signups for Hadestown are coming soon, and you won’t want to miss your chance to make your way to the Underworld.

Keep your eyes open. Keep your ears tuned in.

And maybe... just maybe... Wednesday night might be worth watching.

Space will be limited! If you want to be in the show, Please watch our FB page WEDNESDAY night! Don't miss your chance.

More to come...

WHO IS READY TO AUDITION FOR HADESTOWN TEEN EDITION?!

Registration and Audition Slots will be posted in just a couple of days! Here are a few things that you need to know before jumping in! So sit back, prop your feet up, and read carefully! More information to follow! Keep Watching!

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WHEN IS THE SHOW?

February 5th - 7th, 2027.

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WHEN ARE AUDITIONS?

Audition Dates:

November 2 - Vocal Auditions

November 3 - Vocal Auditions

November 4 - Dance Auditions

November 5 - Callbacks

- You will choose your preferred time slot between 6:00 and 9:00 PM for vocal auditions.

- You will choose between two time slots for dance auditions.

- Callbacks will be from 6:00 - 9:00 PM.

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WHO CAN AUDITION AND WHO IS IN THE SHOW?

This show is for current 6th - 12th grade only.

EVERYONE who auditions will be in the show!

EVERYONE must audition in-person.

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WHERE WILL AUDITIONS BE HELD AT?

105 N. 13th St. Herrin, IL is the address to the Kre8ive Building. It is directly across the street from the Herrin Public Library.

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WHAT IF I CANNOT MAKE IT TO AUDITIONS?

- If you are unable to audition due to a MAJOR conflict such as a family emergency, school function like a concert or game that you cannot get out of, or things of that nature, please reach out to [email protected] AS SOON AS YOU BECOME AWARE of a major conflict and we will determine how to proceed.

- If you do NOT show up for your audition time and do not let us know ahead of time at [email protected] you will forfeit your place in the show.

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WHAT SHOULD I PREPARE?

Vocal Audition: Please prepare TWO contrasting songs that showcase TWO different emotional sides of you as a performer. Please ensure that each song is roughly 32 bars and that both songs fit the style of the show. A piano accompanist will be provided. A sound system will also be provided to play tracks from phones.

Monologues are NOT required for this audition.

Dance: Please wear clothes that allow you to move freely and dance comfortably. If you have jazz shoes, bring them. If not, tennis shoes are acceptable.

Special Note: We highly encourage everyone to participate in dance auditions, even if you are NOT a dancer. You should plan on attending a dance audition if you would like to be considered for a lead role.

Dancers: You MUST sign up for a vocal audition AND a dance audition.

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COSTS

- There is an $80.00 registration fee that is due at time of registration. Payments will be accepted ONLINE ONLY. Registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferrable.

- There is a multiple child discount that will be offered.

- There are costume fees that are associated with this production. There will be a very simple fundraiser opportunity to help reduce costume costs.

- If you need financial assistance, please reach out to Amy Lynn Francis BEFORE registering at [email protected].

10/04/2026

WHO IS READY TO AUDITION FOR HADESTOWN TEEN EDITION?!

Registration and Audition Slots will be posted in just a couple of days! Here are a few things that you need to know before jumping in! So sit back, prop your feet up, and read carefully! More information to follow! Keep Watching!

----

WHEN IS THE SHOW?

February 5th - 7th, 2027.

-----

WHEN ARE AUDITIONS?

Audition Dates:

November 2 - Vocal Auditions

November 3 - Vocal Auditions

November 4 - Dance Auditions

November 5 - Callbacks

- You will choose your preferred time slot between 6:00 and 9:00 PM for vocal auditions.

- You will choose between two time slots for dance auditions.

- Callbacks will be from 6:00 - 9:00 PM.

-----

WHO CAN AUDITION AND WHO IS IN THE SHOW?

This show is for current 6th - 12th grade only.

EVERYONE who auditions will be in the show!

EVERYONE must audition in-person.

-----

WHERE WILL AUDITIONS BE HELD AT?

105 N. 13th St. Herrin, IL is the address to the Kre8ive Building. It is directly across the street from the Herrin Public Library.

-----

WHAT IF I CANNOT MAKE IT TO AUDITIONS?

- If you are unable to audition due to a MAJOR conflict such as a family emergency, school function like a concert or game that you cannot get out of, or things of that nature, please reach out to [email protected] AS SOON AS YOU BECOME AWARE of a major conflict and we will determine how to proceed.

- If you do NOT show up for your audition time and do not let us know ahead of time at [email protected] you will forfeit your place in the show.

-----

WHAT SHOULD I PREPARE?

Vocal Audition: Please prepare TWO contrasting songs that showcase TWO different emotional sides of you as a performer. Please ensure that each song is roughly 32 bars and that both songs fit the style of the show. A piano accompanist will be provided. A sound system will also be provided to play tracks from phones.

Monologues are NOT required for this audition.

Dance: Please wear clothes that allow you to move freely and dance comfortably. If you have jazz shoes, bring them. If not, tennis shoes are acceptable.

Special Note: We highly encourage everyone to participate in dance auditions, even if you are NOT a dancer. You should plan on attending a dance audition if you would like to be considered for a lead role.

Dancers: You MUST sign up for a vocal audition AND a dance audition.

-----

COSTS

- There is an $80.00 registration fee that is due at time of registration. Payments will be accepted ONLINE ONLY. Registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferrable.

- There is a multiple child discount that will be offered.

- There are costume fees that are associated with this production. There will be a very simple fundraiser opportunity to help reduce costume costs.

- If you need financial assistance, please reach out to Amy Lynn Francis BEFORE registering at [email protected].

09/20/2026

We would like to express our condolences to Vince’s family and affirm what Artstarts posted about his impact on our theater organization as well. Much love to the MCCC family as they grieve the loss of a person who was a crucial part of their team. 🫶🏻

Our hearts are incredibly heavy as we join the Marion Cultural and Civic Center family and so many throughout Southern Illinois in mourning the loss of Vince Elliott.

For organizations like Artstarts, Vince was so much more than the Technical Director at the MCCC. He was one of those people behind the scenes who helped make the magic onstage possible. For years, he was there through load-ins, rehearsals, performances, technical questions, last-minute problems, long days, and all of the countless details most audiences never see.

Children and families may not always have known just how much work was happening behind the curtain, but Vince’s hands were part of creating the space where so many young performers could step onto a stage, find their confidence, tell a story, and experience the joy of live theatre.

When you produce theatre in a community like ours, the people who care for the spaces, solve the problems, help bring ideas to life, and keep everything moving become an important part of your theatre family. Vince was certainly that for Artstarts and for so many other organizations and performers who have called the MCCC stage home.

His impact reaches far beyond any one production. It lives in the thousands of performances he helped facilitate, the artists he supported, the problems he quietly solved, the audiences he helped welcome, and the memories created under those stage lights.

Southern Illinois theatre has lost someone who played an incredibly important role in making our local arts community what it is.

We are deeply grateful for the many years Artstarts had the privilege of working alongside Vince, and we are keeping Michelle, his family, his Marion Cultural and Civic Center family, and all who loved him in our prayers during the days ahead.

Thank you, Vince, for helping make the show happen—again and again. You will be greatly missed. ❤️

09/18/2026

❗Audition Announcement! SAVE THE DATES❗

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY!

🎤 Vocal Auditions: November 2nd & 3rd (watch for time slots)
💃🏼 Dance Auditions: November 4th (watch for time slots)
📲 Callbacks: November 5th (6:00 pm - 9:00 pm)

(REGISTRATION/ TIME SLOT CHOICES WILL BE POSTED SOON)

WHO: Current 6th - Current 12th graders.
WHERE: Kre8ive Building (105 N. 13th Herrin, IL)

WHAT TO PREPARE:

VOCAL - Please prepare TWO contrasting songs that showcase TWO different emotional sides of you as a performer. Please ensure that each song is roughly 32 bars and that both songs fit the style of the show. A piano accompanist will be provided. A sound system will also be provided to play tracks from phones. NO MONOLOGUE IS REQUIRED FOR THIS AUDITION.

DANCE - Please wear clothes that allow you to move freely and dance comfortably. If you have jazz shoes, bring them. If not, tennis shoes are acceptable.

SPECIAL NOTE: We encourage all kids to come to dance auditions; not just those that want to be featured dancers or leads. ALSO, if you want to be a dancer, you'll still need to come to a voice audition.

REGISTRATION: There will be a registration/ time slot link posted soon. Watch our FB page!

COSTS: There is an $80.00 registration fee that is due at time of registration. There is a multiple child discount. There are costume fees associated with our productions which you will be invoiced for toward the end of the production process. A fundraiser opportunity will be offered to help offset the costs.

We look forward to bringing Hadestown Teen Edition to Southern Illinois! We hope you join us!