Once you’ve been God, there’s not much else to do.
That might be why Tyler Paul — who played that coveted role in Staples Players‘ production of “Children of Eden” — has retired from the stage.
These days, the 2007 Staples grad is on the other side of the footlights. Armed with a theater management degree from Marymount Manhattan College, and with work experience at the world’s largest licensing agency, he’s co-founded an innovative children’s theater company.
His aim is to introduce the magic of acting to new generations of kids. Some may be inspired to a life in the theater; others may simply open their eyes and imaginations.
Whatever happens, Tyler wants youngsters to have fun.
Tyler Paul (right) and Morgan Weitz, co-founders of the Northeast Children’s Theatre Company.
The native Westporter got his own start at Music Theatre of Connecticut. He spent 2 years each at Coleytown and Bedford Middle Schools, where he was influenced by Ben Frimmer and Karen McCormick.
At Staples, David Roth’s theater program provided a great home for Tyler. In addition to acting, he directed shows and worked on music.
Tyler also worked for MTC as vocal director and camp director. That brought him full circle — and planted the seed for his current involvement in arts education.
Gradually, his interest morphed into the business, producing and management side of theater. While still in college, he founded the Northeast Children’s Theatre Company.
“Fairfield County is an incredible area for the arts, but no organization does what we do: professional theater for young audiences, with year-round programming,” Tyler says.
A scene from NCTC’s first show, “The Tortoise and the Hare.”
NCTC also provides arts education and outreach. Last month, the organization launched 2 programs in Bridgeport. Another follows in January in South Norwalk.
Because of the arts education he received in Westport, Tyler says, “I’m passionate about it. Kids who are exposed to theater and the arts have been shown to do well in school.”
Despite Fairfield County’s well-earned reputation for supporting the arts, Tyler says, it’s tough finding affordable, age-appropriate entertainment for kindergartners through 8th graders.
“Nickelodeon and Disney are great,” he notes. “But kids need live performances.”
Tyler is moving forward, fast. Last month, NCTC announced a partnership with the Fairfield Theatre Company. A fundraising program is underway. New shows are in the works.
That’s a lot for any man to handle. But Tyler Paul — now that he’s no longer God — seems up for the task.
Tyler and Morgan are amazing young people with tons of passion, energy, talent and a burning desire to change kids’ lives through theater! I had the opportunity to see their original professional show “Tortoise and the Hare” and the quality was outstanding. I look forward to much more from these two dynamos!
Good stuff and, if they haven’t done it yet, they should perhaps consider trying to connect with Arielle Tepper Madover.
Another Staples Players alum sharing the joy of theatre… Congratulations, Tyler, and wishing you much continued success!
I remember moving to Westport from London, and taking my kids, ages 7 and 11 (who were already doing theater in England) to see Urinetown at Staples, where Tyler played the mean “Officer”. His talent made me think “oh, boy, my kids will have to work really hard if they want to continue in theater here”. He was a big Inspiration for both of them throughout his years at Staples Players.