Addi ’26 to star in Nashville Children’s Theatre production

Addi King '26 lands the role of Fern in “Charlotte’s Web” following in the footsteps of her father, Middle School Theater Director Bakari King.
By Sierra Smith, Communications Specialist

Set to premiere on Saturday, June 26, Addi King '26 will star as Fern Arable, the charming, kind-hearted protagonist that helps to save Wilbur in “Charlotte’s Web” as Nashville Children’s Theatre presents the classic tale. 

“I was so happy when I heard they were doing “Charlotte’s Web” because I love that story,” Addi shared. “Now that I’m cast as Fern, it feels so special to be a kid working in the grown up world — this is my first professional role and I’m just 13.” 

As Addi prepares to take on the role, it’s clear she’s approaching her craft with sincerity and passion. In the most recent film adaptation of “Charlotte’s Web,” Fern is played by Dakota Fanning, and a Google image search for the character produces almost entirely photos and drawings of young, white girls. Addi is proud to show NCT audiences that the character is not confined to one skin color. 

“We’ve all worked so hard, I’m so excited for the audience to see it,” Addi said. “And most importantly, for people like me to see it; I want girls in the audience to see it and know that young, African American girls can do anything.” 

While “Charlotte’s Web” is Addi’s first professional gig, her list of past credits is extensive. At USN, she’s performed in “Frozen,” “Junie B. Jones,” and “Sister Act,” and lists the role of Elsa in “Frozen” as a favorite. What’s more, she’s performed in numerous Theater Bug productions, as well as plays that her father, MS Theater Director Bakari King, was involved in. 

On working with her dad both in theater and at school, Addi shared, “It’s great; it’s like having a 24/7 mentor. My first show was with my dad, so working with him is really all I know, and it’s nice because I know I’ll always have someone there to help and support me.” 

Addi’s list of mentors, fans, and supporters at USN extends far beyond the Performing Arts department. While she may not discuss her theatrical aspirations with all her teachers, Addi recognizes the role they’ve all played in teaching her to believe in herself. Addi specifically noted that Seventh Grade French Teacher Martha Moore and Retired Seventh Grade English Teacher Shannon Earl were particularly integral in encouraging her and inspiring her to persist through difficulties during the past school year, and that Kindergarten Teacher Jody Reynolds has demonstrated unwavering support for Addi’s artistry since her earliest days as a Tiger by coming to almost all of her shows. 

“Over the years I’ve seen Addi in a number of plays and musicals both here and outside of USN, but I really feel like the time that I saw her transform into the artist she’s becoming was watching her in our Middle School Musical in Frozen — she just shined in such a breathtaking way. Her performance brought tears to my eyes,” Reynolds shared. “She is a rockstar student, actress, sister, and just all around a good person; it’s been wonderful to watch her progress and move through life, growing into someone so special.” 

Visit Nashville Children’s Theatre’s website to learn more about how you can catch Addi on stage.
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