Young Actors Theatre (YAT) is saying "be our guest" as the performing arts school opens its 50th anniversary season with Beauty and The Beast.
Over a hundred performers will take the stage on various dates from November 1 - 10. "The show is supported by 250 volunteers in addition to our talented staff of directors and designers," says YAT CEO Sarah Roy.
This is an extra special season, with an anniversary gala planned early next year. Five decades of YAT alums will come together with current students and supporters to celebrate the pink building on Glenview Drive. The gala will be held Feb. 1, 2025 at the FSU Student Union, hosted by YAT alum and two-time Emmy winner Tony Hale.
Click here to get Beauty and the Beast tickets and see more about the shows planned for this season.
Here's the press release from Young Actors Theatre:
TALLAHASSEE, FL – On Friday, November 1, Young Actors Theatre will open its 50th Anniversary Season, presented by Prime Meridian Bank, with Disney’s classic tale, Beauty and The Beast. Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature, enchantment abounds between Belle, the Beast, and the castle of characters: 120 Young Actors company members, ages 9-18.
“This production is not just a retelling of a beloved fairy tale; it’s a vibrant exploration of community – how we come together, support one another, and grow through our shared experiences,” says Natalie Futrell, the director of the production, which is sponsored by Kira Derryberry Photography.
“At its core, Beauty and the Beast reminds us that true beauty lies within. The characters in this story, from Belle’s unyielding kindness to the Beast’s transformative journey, illustrate how community fosters understanding and acceptance,” continues Futrell, who is an alum of the program and serves in a leadership capacity as its Managing Director.
Since its founding in 1975, Young Actors Theatre has been enriching the Tallahassee community and beyond, providing professional-caliber youth performances, outstanding performing arts education, and a multi-generational network of passionate students, alumni, and audience members. Long regarded as a community treasure, YAT is one of the nation’s few independent children’s programs with its own on-site theater.
“As we present a ‘tale as old as time,’ we celebrate our 50th Anniversary milestone and the countless stories of growth, friendship, and creativity that have unfolded on our stage over the years,” remarks Sarah Roy, Chief Executive Officer of the nonprofit. “Each performance has been a testament to the hard work and dedication of our young performers, directors, and volunteers who have poured their hearts into bringing these stories to life.”
Beauty and the Beast runs November 1-10, with an abbreviated children’s show on Saturday, November 2 and a “Pay What You Can” sensory-friendly performance on November 9. To learn more, visit www.youngactorstheatre.com.
Editor's Note: The reporter is a YAT alum who works there occasionally.
