“Starting an improv troupe for the first time can be incredibly intimidating. Add youth ages into  the mix and the vision of throwing papers everywhere and walking out comes to mind. However,  it doesn’t have to be a terrifying experience.”

Although the world of musical theatre is slowly becoming more diverse and inclusive, our look still plays an important part in casting. In some cases, being in an industry that places so much focus on your body can lead you down a dangerous path. It took me years to love my short, slightly thicker body and to be perfectly honest; I'm still working on it.

“The courage to stand in front of audiences at such a young age is inspiring. My goal as a director from here on out is to remember the basics are fundamental, imperfections are magical, allow others to surprise me, and don’t forget to always have fun.”

It is a reality of our world that bringing creative work to life costs money. The training, whether private lessons or group classes or university studies, can become prohibitively expensive. What do we do when we, as individuals, simply don’t have the money?

“A National youth theater organization is under fire over multiple allegations of sexual misconduct and other offenses. Leaders at Christian Youth Theater have responded that they are investigating each claim, working with authorities, and will change their policies going forward. However, victims and others associated with the organization, say that’s not nearly enough.”

“I have found if actors feel as though they have a friend in each castmate, it creates an environment where they feel trust and support.”

This past week, a teen theatre community has been rocked by disturbing video clips of a director berating his cast of “A Chorus Line”.

This community is big but small at the same time. You'll likely encounter a lot of the same people at auditions. Stick around long enough, and you'll end up doing a show together.

“It’s my fifth year. I just want a line.” Written on audition form by a girl in a musical theater summer program.

There is a glaring achievement gap in children’s theater. Every town seems to have a handful of girls who could go on America’s Got Talent (ATG) and get an impressed nod from Simon Cowell. They are the budding Rachel Berry’s in our lives. These girls, (I call them the ATG girls), through a combination of genetics and opportunity have golden voices and a surfeit of self-confidence. They are amazing. Most of them work hard and show up on time and they get all the leads from the time they are ten years old. And they nail these parts almost every time. They are joyful to watch.