“I appreciated how this group embraced the theme of generations. Just having a span of so many years between all of us has really been gratifying and magical.”

– Bridges Participant 

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“I’m really thankful to have this sort of space to be expressive and creative and really have like no rules technically, just cause I … haven’t done acting since high school... And it was fun! And I miss doing something that was just fun!”

– Bridges Participant 

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“I love the age range and getting to work with so many people of different ages and I love the inclusivity of it all.”

– Bridges Participant 

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“This was so, so special to do with my Nana. Truly. And to feel the power of creativity and community building with my nana and my family is incredibly - it’s not only unique, but it builds memories that will stay.”

– Bridges Participant 

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“I have just been learning so much from the young people in this group. They’ve given me so many great ideas!"

– Bridges Participant 

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“My kids are loving theater – thanks for all your hard work. I have been thinking a lot about what you said about kids needing a non-school place where they don’t have to assume their usual identity and place in the school caste system. I think they both feel like they are freer in theater than anywhere else.”

– Parent of two PAYT participants

 

“Youth Theatre is important to me because I learn so much and can be myself, knowing for a fact that I won’t be judged by others. Theater has given me a new sense of purpose, and being in the company of such an amazing array of successful actors makes me proud to be a member of PAYT.”

– PAYT Participant (13 years old)

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"I've been a member of PAYT for almost 7 years and I've loved every minute of it. I've made amazing friends, been in some incredible and fun performances, and had some of the best experiences of my life. The directors, especially Liz and Nicole, have been so inspirational. Their care and devotion towards the youth theater groups makes them what they are: safe places for young people to learn, practice theater, and most importantly have fun. I'm so thankful for them and the work they do.

– PAYT Participant (15 years old)

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I've discovered so much about myself through PAYT. It's been an incredible, fun experience that I wouldn't trade for any other. The PAYT community is one of the best I've ever been a part of, and these years of theater have meant so, so much to me."  

– PAYT Participant (16 years old)

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"I enrolled my daughter in PAYT two years ago only because a friend had joined previously. Little did I know this activity, together with the student group and the instructors, was going to become her favorite extra curricular venture. She took out a lot from these sessions; made many friends and acquaintances who remained in contact even after the classes ended, learned many theatrical techniques that helped her in and outside the performing world, and gained confidence thanks to the frequent staging and the warmth received by peers and instructors. I give this place five stars for other reasons as well: they are extremely organized, the teachers are the most caring team I have ever met ( and I am myself a teacher), and the classes are imparted in a charming venue in the UES. It is without doubt my best find in NYC!"

– Parent of PAYT participant

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"PAYT has played a huge role in my life for the past few years, and it has become something I look forward to every week. The program has built my confidence and means a lot to me!"

– PAYT Participant (13 years old)