Actor’s Youth Theatre (AYT) is an independent, youth theatre based in Gilbert, AZ of the Phoenix area. AYT provides a positive atmosphere while helping develop acting talents in youths from ages 8-18.
We recently had the opportunity to see an AYT performance of Newsies! Jana and Emily had a mother/daughter date to the Tempe Center of the Arts on a Sunday afternoon. (Note: most of the shows are held at The Tuscany Theatre in Gilbert.) Jana has loved Newsies for years, but this was a new storyline for Emily. Not even three songs in, Emily was captivated and loved every minute!
The talent was phenomenal! It’s not every day you see a group off young people that have all three fold talents of singing and acting and in-sync choreography. We could tell they truly enjoyed being on stage! This is also a testament to the many behind the scenes workers, from directors to prop designs. Their guidance and talent forms the actors to offer the amazing show we saw. From “Seize the Day” to “King of New York” and all in between, the energy was 100% in every word and action.
One of the best ways to introduce children to the theatre is to bring them to a performance with youth actors. Whether or not they have a desire to perform, seeing children their own age on stage makes it instantly more interesting. It can capture more of the senses than a movie or book! Youth productions are also often shorter than usual theatre plays, making it perfect for shorter attention spans. We’ve attended half a dozen youth theatre productions over the years and AYT’s quality is definitely a favorite.
Mary Poppins, JR is next up on the performance list, running August 1-17, 2019, and then Pippin, from August 29-September 7, 2019. Ticket prices are $15/person. Check their website for future performances in the 2019-2020 season! There are also a few weeks left for summer camps.
Another wonderful aspect of Actors Youth Theatre is their training sessions. Workshops, group or private lessons, and camps provides a unique experience that prepares young people from diverse backgrounds for an appreciation of the arts. AYT offers training in acting, dancing and voice, including some classes for adults. Register for classes or sign up to audition for future performances on their website. If your child is interested in acting classes, consider first attending an AYT show. The quality will convince you that the it all starts with their training!
Actor’s Youth Theatre – www.aytaz.org
LOCATION
The Tuscany Theatre
861 N Higley Road, suite 105
Gilbert, AZ 85234
480-907-7050
boxoffice@aytaz.org
ayt.ticketleap.com
