History
Actor's Youth Theatre (AYT) was founded in 2003 by siblings Marcus Ellsworth and Julie Ellsworth Clement. The sister and brother team hail from an artistic family which traveled all over the state in their early years, giving them the opportunity to sing, dance act and perform. As adults living in the east valley, they saw a need for youth drama in the area and established Actor's Youth Theatre over a decade ago in an elementary school in Mesa. In 2008, the organization was granted 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. For years after, they were renting studios in the vicinity for rehearsals and workshops. In December of 2013 however, the Tuscany Theatre in Gilbert became the new home of AYT. Now entering their 12th season, AYT has grown from their initial 3 plays per season to over 10 youth theatre productions this season. They also offer summer workshops and year round classes, private voice and piano lessons. AYT consistently wins National Youth Awards and ariZoni awards each year.
Specialties
Actor's Youth Theatre (AYT) is a non-profit performing arts organization with the mission of educating, entertaining, and enriching the lives of individuals in the community. AYT provides opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to develop acting, dancing, and musical talents through comprehensive performing art workshops, community outreach, performance opportunities, and the presentation of theatre productions.