Original cast of Rock the Presidents. Photo courtesy of Childsplay.

I suppose you could pack up your party hats and noisemakers and head to Mt. Rushmore for a bit of pre-election fun, but a trip to Tempe Center for the Arts makes more sense. It’s the site of September’s “Party with the Presidents!,” an event presented by Childsplay in partnership with Kids Voting Arizona.

The party takes place Sept. 16 from 2-5:30pm, and is recommended for ages 7 and up. George Washington and Abraham Lincoln impersonators will be giving speeches, kissing babies and running for office. Children will have the opportunity to make their own campaign posters, vote in a mock election, play presidential trivia and enjoy a George and Abe photo opp. The event also features a raffle and a spread of red, white and blue foods.

Fun with George Washington. Photo courtesy of Childsplay.

Those who attend the $44-per-ticket fundraiser (one buck per U.S. president) will be treated to a special VIP performance of “Rock the Presidents,” which premiered at Tempe Center for the Arts last season and is already back by popular demand. “Rock the Presidents” is a multimedia musical revue that makes learning American history and imagining America’s future fun.

“Rock the Presidents” features book and lyrics by Dwayne Hartford; music is by Sarah Roberts. Hartford’s “The Color of Stars,” another work inspired by his commitment to civic engagement, also debuted at Tempe Center for the Arts last season. Kids Voting Arizona will be on hand to register voters during the ”Party with the Presidents!” event.

“Party with the Presidents!” benefits Childsplay’s arts in education programs, which benefit one in five Arizona school children each year. Children in several states will get to experience a touring production of “Rock the Presidents” that visits dozens of cities between now and February. One day, I hope, Childsplay will be invited to perform at the White House.

Click here to learn more about “Party with the Presidents” — plus all the family-friendly shows in Childsplay’s 2012/13 season. And watch for the October issue of RAISING ARIZONA KIDS, which features voter resources and tips for civic engagement.

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