Fort Wayne Youtheatre

The Fort Wayne Youtheatre's mission is to educate, engage, and entertain regional youth and families through theatre arts.

Where Confidence, Creativity & Friendship Take Center Stage

The Youtheatre Way

At Fort Wayne Youtheatre, we believe every child deserves the chance to discover their voice, explore their creativity, and shine. Our theatre classes are designed to nurture imagination, build confidence, and encourage teamwork—all while having fun!

For Every Child

With classes for ages 3–18, Youtheatre offers something for every student, from beginners just finding their spark to experienced young performers looking to refine their craft. No matter their skill level, every child is welcome to step into the spotlight and grow both on stage and off.

Arts & Achievement

Research shows arts education boosts focus, self-expression, and social-emotional skills in young people. Students who participate in creative arts from an early age develop stronger reasoning, communication, and problem-solving abilities—and tend to perform better academically, including on standardized tests like the SAT.

Inspiring Instructors

Our Teaching Artists are the heart of every class. Each instructor is a passionate professional bringing real-world experience and a love of teaching to the classroom. Their expertise ensures every student receives high-quality, engaging instruction that inspires creativity, builds skill, and fosters lifelong appreciation for the arts.

Winter Semester

Classes Meet Saturdays, January 9 - February 6, 2027

Story Explorers - Animal Tales Class Graphic with students

Story Explorers: Animal Tales

Grades: Pre-K (Ages 3-5)
Time: 9:30 am – 10:15 am
Registration Fee: $75
Teaching Artist: Marylee Rorick

Hop, roar, wiggle, and explore! In Animal Tales, little Story Explorers will bring their favorite animal adventures to life. With playful games, creative movement, and silly storytelling, young explorers will discover new ways to use their bodies, voices, and imaginations — all while having a wildly wonderful time.

MT - Frozen Adventures class graphic with students as penguins

Musical Theatre: Frozen Adventures

Grades: K-1
Time: 10:30 am – 11:15 am
Registration Fee: $75
Teaching Artist: Marylee Rorick

Get ready for flurry of fun! Step into an enchanted kingdom of icy magic, singing snowmen, and unforgettable adventures. Little performers will explore friendship, courage, and teamwork while building confidence and discovering the joy of sharing the stage. No experience needed — just bundle up for a magical adventure!

MT - Hello Broadway! class graphic with students singing

Musical Theatre: Hello, Broadway!

Grades: 2-5
Time: 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Registration Fee: $95
Teaching Artist: Sara Eckenrode

Say “hello” to the bright lights of Broadway! Step into the spotlight and sing your way through musical theatre favorites! Students will dig into age-appropriate songs centered on making an entrance, introducing themselves to the audience, and finding their own unique voice. Each week will focus on building confidence while strengthening vocal skills.

Acting 2-5 - Beyond the Wand class graphic with students acting

Acting: Beyond the Wand

Grades: 2-5
Time: 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Registration Fee: $95
Teaching Artist: Em Humbarger

Go beyond the ordinary and dive into a world of magic, mystery, and imagination! In Beyond the Wand, explore spellbinding storytelling, character creation, creative movements, and scene work — all while building ensemble skills, developing confidence, and bringing fantastical worlds to life!

Tech Theatre - Props graphic with student painting

Technical Theatre: The Prop Shop

Grades: 2-5
Time: 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Registration Fee: $95
Teaching Artist: Em Humbarger

Welcome to The Prop Shop! Bring the stage to life by discovering the magic of props and how we can transform everyday objects into theatrical elements to help tell a story. Students will get hands-on explore their creativity while learning the basics of prop design, creation, and performance.

Acting 6-12 - Great American Drama class graphic with students acting

Acting: Great American Drama & You

Grades: 6-12
Time: 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Registration Fee: $95
Teaching Artist: Christopher J. Murphy

Step into the world of great American drama! Students will collaborate on short scenes by acclaimed American playwrights, rehearsing and performing scenes while developing skills in character, voice, movement, collaboration, and script analysis.

MT - Addams Family class graphic with students wearing masks

Musical Theatre: The Addams Family

Grades: 6-12
Time: 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
Registration Fee: $95
Teaching Artists: Christopher J. Murphy, Heather Closson, and Sara Eckenrode

They’re creepy and they’re kooky… Plus they sing and dance! They’re THE ADDAMS FAMILY! Students will dive into “When You’re an Addams,” exploring the world of THE ADDAMS FAMILY through musical theatre. Get ready to embrace your spooky side and bring the wonderfully weird world of THE ADDAMS FAMILY to life!
Tech Theatre - Lighting class graphic with student hanging light

Technical Theatre: Stage Lighting 102

Grades: 6-12
Time: 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Registration Fee: $95
Teaching Artist: Corey Lee

Building on our Fall Semester curriculum, students will get hands-on experience with lighting instruments, technology, and basic design concepts — all while helping design for Youtheatre’s Studio Series production of “Unfollowed.” Note: This class will run January 9 – February 13, 2027.

Financial Aid is Available - December 18, 2026

Upcoming Classes

Information will be available about these offerings soon!

Fall Semester

Classes Meet Saturdays, October 3-31, 2026

Winter Semester

Classes Meet Saturdays, January 9 – February 6, 2027

April Mini-Session

Classes Meet Saturdays, April 3-17, 2027

May Mini-Session

Classes Meet Saturdays, May 8-22, 2027

Assist with a Class

This unpaid opportunity is perfect for students looking to gain experience that will enhance resumes, develop real-world skills, strengthen leadership abilities, and deepen their appreciation for the arts and teamwork.

Applications are reviewed on an ongoing basis.

Application

2026-2027 Education & Outreach Sponsors

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