YouthStage boasts fully produced musicals for students in grades 5-12. Within our youth productions, KidStage (grades 5-8) and TeenStage (grades 8-12) opportunities are offered during the Fall and Winter/Spring, and YouthStage (combined grades 5-12) opportunities are offered during the summer. Directed and designed by local theater professionals, these productions feature students playing all the roles. Over the course of the rehearsal process, actors develop their individual craft and learn to thrive collectively as part of an ensemble, all while building a polished final show, presented to family and friends on the Julia Morgan stage!
Age Ranges and Opportunities
YouthStage is divided into the following grade groups and company members get these amazing opportunities (please note, grade ranges are subject to change based on show titles):
KidStage
Grades 5-8
Train with professional Directors, Musicians, Vocal Coaches and Choreographers
Explore both traditional and non-traditional performance styles as part of an ensemble
TeenStage
Grades 8-12
Train with professional Directors, Musicians, Vocal Coaches and Choreographers
Explore both traditional and non-traditional performance styles as part of an ensemble
Other YouthStage Programs
Grades: 6-12
Stagecraft: Explore behind the scenes elements and receive hands-on experience in lighting, costuming, scenic, sound, props, make-up, and stage management. Students will put their learned skills to work on projects for current productions and will be the first to be offered volunteer positions on production teams for future shows.
Musical Theatre Revue: Guided by a seasoned director and music director, students spend 10 weeks creating, writing, choreographing, designing, and rehearsing their own production, culminating in a performance on the Julia Morgan stage. This is a great opportunity for future playwrights and students who crave more creative influence.
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
Curtain Call: A Photo Journey Through Our Productions
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.
