Today we’d like to introduce you to Tara Rynders.
Hi Tara, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Kids Musical Theater (KMT) was founded by Mignon Whitaker, whose love for children, faith, and the performing arts inspired her to create a space where every child could discover confidence, creativity, and connection. What began as a small community production in Orange has grown into a thriving ministry of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Orange, where theater is used as a joyful way to teach teamwork, character, and the value of using one’s gifts to inspire others.
From the beginning, Mignon’s vision was simple but powerful to give kids a place to shine, to be part of something bigger than themselves, and to experience the magic of storytelling through the lens of faith and community.
Today, Tara Rynders leads Kids Musical Theater with that same heart and purpose, supported by an incredible leadership team: Anne Mary Paul, Dawn Johnson, and Kari Haske. Together, they continue to build on KMT’s legacy creating uplifting, family-centered productions that nurture confidence, kindness, and a love for the arts.
As a ministry of St. John’s, KMT is more than a theater program it’s a community of faith and creativity where children are encouraged to grow in both skill and spirit. Whether they’re stepping into their first role or performing under the bright lights for the hundredth time, each student is reminded that their light was meant to shine.
At its core, Kids Musical Theater remains true to its founding spirit: empowering kids to find their voice, share their gifts, and shine brightly both on stage and in life.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Like most performing arts organizations, the road hasn’t always been smooth. One of the biggest challenges we faced came during the height of COVID. Theater everywhere seemed to pause, stages went dark, and many companies were forced to close their doors. It was an incredibly uncertain time, but we knew in our hearts that the arts and community were needed more than ever.
While many families moved out of state and others understandably felt hesitant about gathering in close proximity, we remained committed to finding safe, creative ways to stay connected. The children needed a place to express themselves, to find joy, and to continue growing even in the middle of so much isolation.
Through a mix of faith, flexibility, and a lot of determination, KMT stayed open. We adapted, changing rehearsals, modifying performances, and finding innovative ways to keep the magic of theater alive. Those months reminded us why our mission matters so deeply: theater isn’t just about performing, it’s about belonging.
Looking back, that season strengthened us. It deepened our appreciation for every opportunity to gather, every show we put on, and every child brave enough to step on stage and share their light.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
At the heart of Kids Musical Theater is Tara Rynders, a dedicated leader who blends professional excellence, creative vision, and heartfelt faith. Tara brings more than two decades of experience in production management, stage coordination, and event leadership, skills she honed through her work with The Walt Disney Company and Disneyland Resort, where she supported large-scale productions and creative operations in Anaheim.
Tara earned her Bachelor’s degree in TV/Film from Vanguard University of Southern California, where she also minored in Theatre and performed with the Concert Choir. She later completed a Production Management Certificate Program at California State University, Fullerton, strengthening her ability to manage complex productions and lead creative teams with both structure and imagination.
Since joining Kids Musical Theater, a ministry of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Orange, Tara has served as Production Manager, Director of Operations, and now Executive Director. In these roles, she has built strong organizational systems, fostered collaboration among creative and technical teams, and upheld the ministry’s mission to use theater as a joyful expression of faith and community.
Her experience managing Disney productions, paired with her education in film, theater, and communication, allows Tara to guide KMT with both professionalism and heart. With Tara’s support and guidance and the hard work and dedication of the leadership team, the program continues to thrive, offering children a place to develop confidence, creativity, and connection through the performing arts.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Over the years, I’ve learned that Kids Musical Theater thrives because of the heart and diversity of its volunteers. Each person, no matter their background, brings a unique mix of talents, temperaments, and life experiences that enrich our productions in unexpected ways. I’m continually inspired by parents who begin thinking they have little to contribute, only to discover creative gifts that transform the show. Our community flourishes when creativity is allowed to grow at each person’s own pace and through their preferred way of communicating. While there are always moments of stress, wondering about audition turnout, ticket sales, or whether we’ll be ready for opening night, it always comes together. After 20 years of producing shows, I’m still amazed by how collaboration, faith, and dedication unite us, and how every performance helps our kids step more confidently into who they’re becoming.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://kidsmusicaltheater.com
- Instagram: @kidsmusicaltheater
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kidsmusicaltheater/
