I met Santino Fontana during the Academy of Children’s Theatre (ACT) production of Charlotte’s Web in 1998. It was my son Stephen’s first acting role, who was cast as “baby Wilbur” to Santino’s starring role as Wilbur — “SOME PIG.” Santino, then a student at Richland High, was not only talented, but a wonderful mentor and role model for all the kids in the show. I have been a fan of his ever since.

Santino is now a successful professional actor on stage and screen. He won the 2019 Tony award for Best Actor in a musical for his portrayal of Michael Dorsey in Tootsie. The New York Times hailed him as “one of the most promising actors to emerge in the New York theater,” and New York Magazine praised him as an “indispensable stage star.” Many know his voice as Prince Hans in Disney’s Frozen. He has also appeared on television in shows such as The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Shades of Blue, and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend.

Giving back to his hometown children’s theatre, Santino will present a special one-night-only benefit on September 7 at 7pm at the Richland High Auditorium. In addition to the evening concert, Santino will also present a Masterclass from 12–2p that includes vocal instruction and a Q&A. The Masterclass is open to the public for both students and adults, and is accompanied with a discount code for the evening benefit concert. 

Tickets for both the concert and class are now available at www.AcademyOfChildrensTheatre.org.  An "add-on" autographed poster and/or VIP afterparty ticket (21+) is available while supplies last.

About the Academy of Children's Theatre: The Academy of Children's Theatre is dedicated to providing high-quality theatre education to young performers in the greater mid-Columbia region. Through its programs, ACT nurtures creativity, self-expression, and a love for the arts in children and teens.

Ted Miller has been part of the local performing arts scene for over 25 years. He currently serves on the board of the Washington State Community Theatre Association.