Mainstage Programs
NEYT offers a variety of mainstage programs each year, which culminate in full-scale productions on our main stage. Shows include comedies, original and popular musicals, serious dramas, children’s book adaptations, and more. Some productions require auditions; others are by registration.
An overview of our annual programs are below. Learn about 2023 Programs here.
Clowning.
Clowning is a fundamental part of NEYT’s actor training - European clown tradition, Commedia Dell’arte, and physical comedy are incorporated throughout the year for every age.
Summer Shakespeare
We like to say we are “the house that Shakespeare built with clown hands”. Our Shakespeare program is integral to the work we do with students. Text, movement, and Linklater voice training support the growth of our young actors from as early as 9 years old.
Senior Company Plays
Our Senior company projects provide our actors a variety of experiences with modern and contemporary drama. The rehearsal process is focused on grounded human behavior and the tools actors can use to create specific, engaging performances. Our young people develop a deeper understanding of craft through a rigorous rehearsal process. We seek material that provides opportunity for strong physical storytelling and bold ensemble work. For ages 13-19.
Junior Company Plays
Our Junior Company plays teach young actors skills that will prove foundational for all future programs and productions. Through improv, games, and exercises, participants learn the art of listening, reacting, and adapting to their fellow actors. Actors are encouraged to bring their ideas to the material and physicalize their choices in pursuit of clear and fun storytelling. Plays chosen for this show are often based in literature or a popular/ iconic story, with strong ensemble casts and all the ingredients for a fun theatrical experience. This program is for young people ages 9-12.
Holiday Musicals
Our largest production of the year, the All Company Holiday Musical provides students the opportunity to work in a large ensemble of mixed ages with a live pit band. The play is selected for its potential to engage students in dance, song, and uplifting themes of hope and redemption. Following the notion that “It takes the whole cast to tell the story,” emphasis is placed on creating an ensemble made up of highly specific, individualized characters. Through training in view- points, movement, voice, and physicalization, each actor is given the tools to create a memorable character that allows the ensemble to come alive. The age ranges for these programs vary by production and can range from ages 9-19.
Spring & Summer Musical Theatre
Our Spring & Summer Musicals provide students the support they need to develop the vocal, dance, and acting skills required for musical storytelling. The Spring program is designed for ages 11-15, while the Summer program is a more rigorous process designed for kids ages 13-19.