Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Young Actors Theatre - Nurturing Young Talent in Tallahassee
Young Actors Theatre has been dedicated to educating students in the performing arts since its founding in 1975. Our mission is to invest in the next generation of talent, create arts advocates, and develop future leaders through comprehensive training in acting, singing, and dancing. With a focus on small classes and professional-caliber productions, we equip students aged 3 to 18 with essential skills such as creativity, resilience, public speaking, and teamwork. Our experienced instructors and innovative curriculum have produced alumni who excel on Broadway, in Emmy-winning roles, and in diverse professional fields. We maintain a strong commitment to providing a safe, inclusive environment where young people can explore their potential and build confidence.Our programs include age-specific classes, audition-based company opportunities, and community outreach initiatives. Over 800 children participate annually, benefiting from scholarships and tailored instruction. The organization operates a dedicated on-site theater, hosting over 10,000 audience members annually through mainstage productions and community partnerships. We emphasize the transformative power of the arts to enhance academic performance, social skills, and emotional well-being. Our legacy of excellence continues to shape generations of performers and leaders.
Services
Acting Classes
Dance Training
Vocal Performance
Summer Camps
Audition Preparation
Company Program
Private Lessons
Community Outreach
Scholarship Programs
Mainstage Productions
Details
- Year established: 1975
Highlights and features
- Proven track record with alumni on Broadway and in major entertainment roles
- Experienced instructors with professional industry backgrounds
- Professional-caliber productions for student performance opportunities
- Comprehensive curriculum covering acting, singing, and dance
- Scholarships and community outreach programs for accessibility
Services
Acting Classes
Our acting classes provide foundational and advanced instruction in stage presence, character development, and storytelling techniques. Students engage in scene work, improvisation, and ensemble collaboration while building confidence and communication skills. The curriculum prepares young performers for professional-caliber productions and lifelong artistic appreciation.
Dance Training
Dance training programs focus on various styles including ballet, jazz, tap, and contemporary. Classes emphasize technical proficiency, spatial awareness, and performance quality while developing physical discipline and artistic expression. Students integrate dance skills into musical theatre performances and showcase opportunities.
Vocal Performance
Vocal performance instruction covers proper technique, vocal health, and musical interpretation. Students learn stage singing fundamentals, audition preparation, and collaborative ensemble work. Private lessons and group classes help develop individual artistry while preparing for theatrical roles and competitions.
Company Program
The audition-only Company Program offers intensive training for dedicated students in grades 4-12. Participants receive specialized instruction in acting, music, and dance while gaining priority access to mainstage productions. The program emphasizes professional development, leadership skills, and artistic growth through weekly three-hour sessions.
Mainstage Productions
Professional-caliber mainstage productions provide performance opportunities for students in fully staged musicals and plays. Recent productions include 'The Little Mermaid,' 'Les Misrables,' and 'Into the Woods.' These shows offer technical training, stage experience, and audience engagement while maintaining high artistic standards for community audiences.
People
Sarah Doolin Roy
Chief Executive Officer
Former American Ballet Theatre Director of Marketing with MPA from NYU and experience in strategic partnerships, communications, and nonprofit leadership. Graduated summa cum laude from Marymount Manhattan College.
Natalie Futrell
Executive Director
Fifteen-year YAT veteran with experience as Managing Director, Education Director, and drama teacher. Directed multiple mainstage productions and former Communications Director for Florida Lottery. Holds theatre degree from Florida State University.
J. Scott Handley
Artistic Director
Former Broadway Method Academy founder with BA in Music from Florida State University. Department chair in musical theater and collaborator with renowned performers. Developed educational partnerships with prestigious institutions.
Alison B. Grimes
Music Director
Music Director since 1979 with 43+ years experience. FSU graduate with expertise in vocal coaching and musical direction. Holds diploma in Writing for Children and recognized in Who's Who in Music.
Kassidy Will Canova
Program Manager
Florida School of the Arts graduate with teaching and choreography experience. Choreographed multiple YAT productions including 'Frozen Jr.' and 'Mean Girls Jr.' Former performer in regional theatre productions.
Questions
What age groups do you serve?
We serve children aged 3 to 18 with age-specific classes and performance opportunities.
Are auditions required for all programs?
Auditions are required for the Company Program, but not for general classes.
Do you offer financial assistance?
Yes, we provide scholarships and flexible payment plans for qualifying families.
How many performances occur annually?
We produce four mainstage shows annually plus student showcases and community events.
Can students try a class before enrolling?
Yes, complimentary trial classes are available upon request through our office.
What happens if a student isn't satisfied?
Tuition is prorated if withdrawal occurs within the first two classes of a session.
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