CYT Mission Statement
CYT is dedicated to developing character in children and adults through training in the arts and by producing wholesome family entertainment, all of which reflect Judeo-Christian values.What is CYT?
Christian Youth Theater (CYT) is an after-school theater arts training program for students ages 4 - 18. Since its founding in 1981 in San Diego, CYT has grown to be the largest youth theater in the nation and is a non-profit 501(c)3 educational organization funded primarily through its tuition, ticket sales, and outside contributions. Today, there are over 20 CYT affiliates across the country training thousands of students every year. Each CYT affiliate is a licensee of CCT/CYT (Christian Community Theater, located in San Diego, CA). Kids, families, and entire communities LOVE being part of CYT in their individual city!Because CYT does not own facilities for classes or productions, the organization works through the local community, utilizing classrooms and stages in churches, schools and local theaters or studios. CYT is not affiliated with a church body, and people of all faiths are welcome.
CYT stands in the forefront in its commitment to the highest ethical, moral, technical and artistic standards of excellence. Instructors are professionals, qualified in teaching and/or performing, who must understand our mission statement, values, objectives and goals. The staff of CYT strives to be excellent role models.
Every session (fall, winter and spring) CYT offers theater arts classes for children as an after-school activity. Each CYT across the country conducts three independent sessions throughout the school year, teaching core classes in drama, voice, and dance at weekly two-hour classes. Financial assistance or partial scholarships may be available for those in need and sibling discounts are available to multi-children families. Enrolled students have the opportunity to work behind the scenes, or audition and perform on stage in a Broadway-style musical performed for the community. Musical theater day camps are conducted during the summer.
Values
- Placing the maximum worth on people and treating each individual with respect and significance.
- Developing character values in individuals including commitment, discipline, self esteem, confidence and integrity.
- Supporting the family unit through the direct involvement of each family member’s talents, interests and abilities.
- Providing a quality product without compromising a wholesome environment.
- Being a godly role model promoting the awareness of a higher accountability.
What does CYT offer?
CLASSESCYT offers three sessions during the school year (fall, winter and spring.) Children ages 5 -18 may select one theater class per session. A variety of classes are offered in drama, voice, and dance, plus specialty classes which vary from session to session. CYT offers small classes (usually 14-18 students) with adequate supervision both inside the classroom (teacher) and outside the classroom (CYT area coordinator). Each class lasts for two-hours and runs for 10 consecutive weeks. During the last class week, a high-energy "SHOWCASE" is presented by each class for the other students as well as family and friends. Every CYT student participates in the showcase.
SHOWS
CYT produces at least one Broadway-style musical for the community each session. Enrollment in class provides students (ages 8-18) the opportunity to audition for one of the current productions that session. An all-inclusive production fee covers miscellaneous production-related expenses. Optional expenses include a makeup kit and a show t-shirt.
Students not cast in the show are encouraged to participate in the production in other ways. Depending on age and ability, students (and siblings) can participate on the backstage crew, technical team, or the costume and make-up committees. Students may also choose to work at the concession stands or help usher.
CYT is a family oriented organization dedicated to providing entertaining activities which can involve the entire family. As such, at least one parent of each student cast in the production must serve on both a pre-show and a show-week Production Committee. Without the support of parents, CYT could not produce high-quality community shows. Parents are the backbone of CYT!
CAMPS
Musical theater day camps are available during the summer. Our camps include high energy games and activities that incorporate theater skills and training. Campers will learn material for a showcase at the end of the week by working in small groups with counselors who specialize in singing, dance, and character development.
