OUR HISTORY - More than 25 years ago, Kelsey E. Collie began training young performers through two groups a troop of Girls Scouts and tem youngsters who lived in his northwest Washington neighborhood. The latter, called Creatvie Langauage Arts Project (CLASP), was formed to aid in building language arts skills through reading, reciting and writing poetry.

Following his appointment Howard University, Collie founded the Howard University Children's Theatre, a comprehensive program of college courses, a touring troupe, and year-round workshops for young people.   Participants came from as far away as Californa, Florida, Alabama, Georgia, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Over 5,000 youngsters have received training in one of th several workshops held over the past 25 years.   After 18 years at Howard University, the program's name was changed to the Kelsey E. Collie Children's Theatre Experience (KECCTE) and is currently located at Pensylvania Avenue Baptist Church.

Other programs such as the Playmakers Reportory Company have received national and international recognition through National Public Radio features; appearances and various telvision shows, performances at the American Theatre Association Convention, the National Black Theatre Festival, and the National African American Children's Theatre League Festival.  

Collie credits much of his success of his programs to dedicated and devoted personnel.  Individuals who like Kelsey, embrace the same passion for developing talented youth.   The passion, the drive, and the desire continue - more young people will have their lives enriched....