About Our YouthStage Program

YouthStage is divided into the following grade groups:

  • KidStage, for grades 5-8
  • TeenStage, for grades 8-12
Note: Grade ranges are subject to change based on show titles.

Both KidStage and TeenStage are audition-based youth companies that produce full-length musicals. Directed and designed by local theater professionals, KidStage and TeenStage shows feature students playing all the roles. Over the course of the rehearsal process, youth actors develop their individual craft and learn to thrive collectively as part of an ensemble, all while building a polished and fully-produced final show, presented to family and friends on the Julia Morgan stage!

YouthStage Company Members get these amazing opportunites:

  • Train with professional Directors, Musicians, Vocal Coaches and Choreographers
  • Explore both traditional and non-traditional performance styles as part of an ensemble
  • Perform on the Julia Morgan stage with professionally designed lights, sound, sets, costumes, and more

How do I become a KidStage or TeenStage member?

Young actors are admitted to the program by audition. Those interested can sign up to audition online if a current session is open for applicants.

If admitted, the student becomes a member of the company and does not have to audition for future productions, provided they remain in good standing with the program. They can simply enroll to be a member of the cast for upcoming productions as they become available online. Once enrolled, auditions (we like to call them “try-ons”) are held for specific roles during the few weeks of rehearsal.

For more information or questions about KidStage or TeenStage: email Youthstage@berkeleyplayhouse.org

Financial Aid

We believe all youth deserve the opportunity to engage in and thrive through the arts. Berkeley Playhouse is committed to ensuring access to our education programs for low-income students, especially from underserved and/or underrepresented communities by providing financial assistance for theater education tuitions. FA applications are available upon registration.

Our Team

Megan McGrath
Youth Productions Manager
megan@berkeleyplayhouse.org
youthstage@berkeleyplayhouse.org

Melissa Rivera Simpson
Producing Director
melissa@berkeleyplayhouse.org