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I have the opportunity to constantly connect YAP students to professional people, concepts and experiences. I hire professional friends from our local universities, theatres, and organizations to instruct our masterclasses and direct shows. Being an NYC resident and Broadway performer for over 15 years, I have many connections to dear friends from Broadway who have worked with our students: Jacob Brent (original Mr. Mistofelles/CATS), Donna Vivino (original Young Cosette/LES MISERABLES), James T Lane (CHICAGO, AIN’T TOO PROUD, KISS ME KATE), Jessica Philips (DEAR EVAN HANSEN) Becca Petersen (MEAN GIRLS dance captain), Karlee Ferreira (HAMILTON dance captain), etc. I have had the pleasure of doing shows with many of the LEGALLY BLONDE Original Broadway Company members too so we have a lot of fun plansthis year with Legally Blonde being our summer 2023 mainstage show.
This program is great for every level from those with passion but no experience to those wishing to have a career in the Arts. Our vast array of masterclasses throughout the year are a GREAT way to come experience all YAP has to offer. Our summer productions are so rewarding and summer 2022 was definitely a perfect example of that. I created REVUE! several years ago and the cast builds a show together to tell personal stories and teach life lessons. The cast was phenomenal and had students with a wide array of previous experience. Our 2022 maintage show, 42ND STREET, received rave reviews. There were only a few who had tapped significantly before being cast and by opening night they blew their audiences away with their tap skills and professionalism. It was wonderful to see so many proud parents in awe.
So in conclusion, I am proud that Civic ignites this program for high schoolers to serve the community, enjoy these opportunities, and participate in a safe and inclusive environment where they can engage, learn, thrive, and build. YAP is special. YAP is vibrant. YAP is a community and a family. Please check us out, take a workshop, and audition in March for our 2025 shows. We look forward to welcoming you!
Anne Beck YAP Coordinator
REVUE! is a unique experience for high school students to write and perform their own cabaret-style show. This opportunity allows students to tell their personal stories through song, connecting with each other and audience members. In
JULY 25-28, 2025 IN THE TARKINGTON
A fabulously fun award-winning musical based on the adored movie, LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL, follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Action-packed and exploding with memorable songs and dynamic dances - this musical is so much fun, it should be illegal!
Elle Woods appears to have it all. Her life is turned upside down when her
Audition prep sessions are not required to audition. However, they will give you a leg up on the competition! These prep sessions are aimed at those auditioning for LEGALLY BLONDE. However, those interested in auditioning only for REVUE! are welcome to attend as well.
If you would like to audition for LEGALLY BLONDE or REVUE! but cannot make the dates listed above, feel free to reach out to Anne Beck at anne@civictheatre. org to get information on virtual auditions.
YAP offers a year-round series of workshops and seminars designed just for high school students. These workshops are designed for students interested in improving their skills, learning something new, and preparing for college auditions. To accomodate for busy schedules, one-day YAP workshops typically take place on Sunday afternoons.
All workshops are taught by performers and instructors with extensive experience locally, regionally and nationally. YAP also includes intensive rehearsals, specialized workshops and performances. Training focuses on developing the skills needed to succeed professionally, including character development, vocal coaching, and advanced dance technique.
My favorite thing about doing the YAP summer show is getting to work with so many new people. I learned so much from my peers and made so many new friends. During my YAP experience I was able to take many master classes and workshops. These workshops before rehearsal helped prepare me for future shows and experiences. Not only that, but the whole YAP staff was so supportive throughout the whole show process. I recommend YAP to any performers who want a fun but also incredibly professional environment. I learned so many things that I will take with me for the rest of my musical theatre journey.
CLAIRE KAUFFMAN
“I love taking classes and doing shows within YAP. The Young Artists Program hosts an environment of joy while maintaining professionalism with all of its classes and performances. Being a part of this program will make you better while also helping light your passion for the arts. It is an amazing program for everyone who wants to drastically improve while also loving the experience.”
DAIMON ANDERSON
I absolutely love sending my high school performer to YAP class and the YAP summer program at Civic Theatre. The YAP staff shows true interest in every performer and encourages them to push themselves in a supportive, challenging, and loving environment. The overall climate created among the performers themselves is one of support and encouragement. The kids all are rooting for each other and understand the importance of each person involved in the performance. The kids are treated like professionals and therefore act professionally with each other. The master class offerings provide opportunity for students to learn new skills and hone their craft with professionals in the field. To say that my son cannot wait for the YAP summer program is an understatement – it is the absolute highlight of his summer. We truly have felt blessed to be part of this outstanding program.
AMY MORRISON, YAP PARENT OF MADDUX MORRISON