Theatre Transforms Lives
It is an art form that teaches and entertains through storytelling, shared experiences and creative teamwork. Theatre interprets the mystery of the human experience and stimulates personal development through collaboration.
The Bellevue Youth Theatre utilizes the power of theatre to alter the lives of young people. Everyone who auditions gets a role, no one is turned away and there are no barriers to participation. This inclusive approach gives young people of all abilities and backgrounds the chance to connect, grow and shine through theatre productions the whole community can enjoy.
As one of very few free youth performing arts programs in the country, Bellevue Youth Theatre plays an important role in the strength, health and dynamism of our community.
Many communities support youth development through investment in athletics programs and facilities, but it is rare that a community recognizes the importance of incorporating the arts into the fabric of community infrastructure as the City of Bellevue has done with the Bellevue Youth Theatre program.
The Bellevue Youth Theatre Foundation believes strongly in the value that the arts can bring to our community. Studies demonstrate that investment in the arts contributes to more capable and productive workers, better communicators and more informed arts patrons. Link to research.
An important, though often overshadowed, impact of the Bellevue Youth Theatre is providing access to nascent arts groups, who are able to take advantage of the existing facility, when space is available, to nurture their own programs and audiences. The Foundation views this as an extremely worthwhile contribution to the future growth and development of the Eastside arts community.
There’s a niche created for everyone, and it’s done in a way that is inclusive. But there’s also a high degree of sensitivity and regard for the individual.
-Parent and board member
