Welcome to Theater for Young America

When young people attend a performance at Theatre for Young America they not only see live professional theater of the highest quality, they also get a chance to meet the professional actors and ask questions about the play, topics in the play, and about the art of theater.

Theatre for Young America (TYA) is a 501C3 non-profit children’s theatre fostering the educational and emotional growth of young people through arts-based experiences.

Celebrating 50 Seasons!

In celebration of it’s 50th season, Theatre for Young America has chosen to revive 4 of it’s most popular musical theatre shows

Get Involved

Live, Fun, Educational Theatre for Children and Families!

Theatre for Young America offers performing arts instruction from a professional theatre company, introducing children to all elements of live theatre, incorporating educational aspects as well as important life skills and milestones.

Fall and Spring 2023-2024 Classes

Creative Dynamics

Theatre Exploration

Actor Training

Acting Workshop & Improv

Troupers

Chicken Little

October 10 – November 4, 2023

Three Wise Cats on Broadway

November 24 – December 23, 2023

The Life & Times of the Three Little Pigs

February 27 – March 23, 2024

Goldilocks & The Three Bears

April 9 – May 4, 2024

Tom Sawyer

June 11 – June 29, 2024

Alice in Wonderland

July 16 – July 27, 2024

Come See Us

Season of Plays

In May of 1974 Theatre for Young America (TYA) presented it’s first production at the Waldo Astoria Dinner Playhouse.

The First play was Pinocchio Commedia, followed by seasons 1974-75 and 1975-76.

In 1977 TYA moved to the Overland Theater in Overland Park, Kanass, Transforming the historic cinema into a live theatre venue. TYA performed year round here until 1993.

TYA then built a new theatre space in Mission Mall on Johnson Drive and performed there for over 10 years.

In 2004 TYA began performing in its current home, City Stage, inside the newly restored Union Station of Kansas City.

In celebration of it’s 50th Season in metropolitan Kansas City, TYA has chosen to revive four of its most poplar musical theatre shows. Join us for this blockbuster season of old favorites and new wonders as new artists (and new audiences) revive and reimagine these enduring musical hits!

Our Mission & Vision

Theatre for Young America (TYA) is a 501C3 non-profit children’s theatre fostering the educational and emotional growth of young people through arts-based experiences.

TYA holds these values as central to our mission:

  • Beginning a child’s lifelong relationship with theatre
  • Accessibility, inclusiveness to all populations
  • Development of curriculum based productions, outreach programs, workshops
  • Enrichment of the spirit, body, and mind in every individual

Testimonials

I grew up watching shows and taking acting classes at TYA and now, I am sharing that with my own children. TYA is the BEST children’s theatre. The shows are wonderful and entertaining and their classes are excellent.

- Sidney

Our family LOVES Theater for Young America! The performances are engaging and very economical!! My daughter has enjoyed every play we have seen there!!

- Amy

A dedicated staff and talented team of artists who promote creativity for children. A wonderful family who embraces all. I know this because they let me have my wedding there.

- Nadine