Circle Theatre has always had a strong connection to young people in theatre. From its very first production, Fiddler on the Roof, children have been an important aspect of the theatre's growth and future.

In the summer of 1988, sixteen year olds - and future Circle co-Artistic Directors - Alena Murguia and Kevin Bellie founded The Children's Circle. With guidance from the parent company, the group presented full-scale musicals and classic fairy tales while conducting classes in the basics of theatre.

Several years later, Circle co-founder Wayne Buidens began offering school children academic credit for appearing in Broadway-style musicals. The program explored every aspect of theatre production, from acting to scenic painting. Later, this second program joined with The Children's Circle and evolved into the Circle Theatre Emerging Young Artists program.

Circle Theatre's Emerging Young Artists is a group committed to entertaining and educating the young people of the community. Our approach to fulfilling that commitment is one of hands-on learning, exposure to the arts and artists, as well as traditional learning. CTEYA strives to present quality theatre by and for young people, educate young people through hands-on technical and theatrical experience, and teach professionalism. CTEYA is committed to giving young people opportunities in the theatre that are innovative, exciting, and groundbreaking.

Since its inception, CTEYA has produced grand musicals, intimate monologue nights, and original works while continuing to offer youth theatre classes. Program graduates - including Circle company members Catherine Ferraro, Erika Goodman and Kelly Schumann - have comfortably moved from CTEYA to the Circle main stage, to Broadway, to film, and beyond.

Please join Circle and CTEYA for the upcoming youth productions and encourage your children to experience the program.