VALLEY YOUTH THEATRE

VYT'S 33RD SEASON BRINGS

Previously Canceled Shows Back on Stage

This 2021-2022 season marks Valley Youth Theatre’s 33rd Season…and it’s come a very long way, since 1989!

From its humble beginnings as a traveling troupe and in the basement of what was once Tower Plaza shopping center in central Phoenix, Valley Youth Theatre (VYT) has evolved into a world-class theatre company and one of the most well-respected youth theatre companies in the country. Known equally for alumni who have successfully charted careers on Broadway - and beyond - and those who have become business and community leaders, VYT prides itself on nurturing children in the areas of discipline, cooperation and respect.

Producing Artistic Director, Bobb Cooper, joined VYT in 1996 and is lauded for the passion and professionalism he instills throughout the company. He and the theatre have been recognized with a myriad of awards and unparalleled reviews of their productions. VYT is also acclaimed for the many contributions they make to the community. Sponsor-a-Seat has allowed more than 20,000 at-risk children attend live theatre, many for the first time. Literacy and The Arts raises reading and vocabulary comprehension for thousands of students attending Title 1 schools, each year. Chronically & terminally ill children and their families through HopeKids are VYT’s guests for the final dress rehearsal of every production and special Military Nights are often offered for families of active and retired members of the armed forces, along with donations to VetTix.

To celebrate thirty-three years and returning to the stage after a long pandemic break, VYT decided to take the opportunity to produce the shows that we had planned to do for the 2020 - 2021 Season.

Spookley the Square Pumpkin, the Musical, based on the wildly popular books and animated special, combines the spectacle and joy of Halloween with delightful songs that people of all ages will love! Shunned by the other pumpkins, Spookley is befriended by Edgar, Allan and Poe, three hilarious spiders who convince him that, square or not, he has a right to be the Pick of the Patch. Encouraged by kindly Jack Scarecrow, Spookley tries his best, but he isn’t sure he has what it takes until a mighty storm threatens Holiday Hill Farm. As a result, all the pumpkins in the patch learn that the things that make you different make you special.

A WINNIE-THE-POOH CHRISTMAS TAIL

VYT’s perennial musical that tells a holiday adventure of sharing, caring, friendship and joy, celebrating its 25th Anniversary this season!

SLEEPING BEAUTY

A sleeping beauty, a handsome prince, good and evil fairies… and one of the most beloved stories of our time… set to a beautiful ballet.

JUNIE B JONES, THE MUSICAL

Join Junie B. on her first day of first grade, where many changes are in store: Junie’s best friend Lucille has found new best friends -— and Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school. While in Mr. Scary’s class, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard — and she may need glasses. Add in a friendly cafeteria lady, an intense kickball tournament and a “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal,” and first grade has never been more exciting. Featuring many lovable characters and funfilled songs, Junie B. Jones will capture your audiences’ and performers’ hearts — just as the books captivated an entire generation of students.

HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL, THE MUSICAL

Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical comes to life on stage! It’s the first day after winter break at East High. The Jocks, Brainiacs, Thespians and Skater Dudes find their cliques, recount their vacations, and look forward to the new year. Basketball team captain and resident jock, Troy, discovers that the brainy Gabriella, a girl he met singing karaoke on his ski trip, has just enrolled at East High. They cause an upheaval when they decide to audition for the high school musical that is being led by Ms. Darbus. Although many students resent the threat posed to the “status quo,” Troy and Gabriella’s alliance might just open the door for others to shine as well. Disney’s High School Musical is fun for the whole family.

“This is a landmark year for VYT,” says Cooper. “In fact, we’ve beaten the odds a number of times to keep this theatre and its programs alive. Today, I’m very proud to say that we continue to thrive in the Phoenix arts community and that every season is better than the last, thanks to our incredible donors, Board of Directors, staffs, students, campers, casts, crews, parents, volunteers, and business partners. Together, we inspire young people to be the best they can be.”

For more information, visit vyt.com or call (602) 253-8188.