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!
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.
2023 – 2024 Season
Tom Sawyer
June 11 – June 29, 2024
Alice in Wonderland
July 16 – July 27, 2024
2024 – 2025 Season
Goodnight Moon
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
November 29 – December 24, 2024
Junie B. Jones The Musical
March 4 – April 5, 2025
Bill Robinson and Shirley Temple
April 29 – May 17, 2025
Snow White
June 10 – 28, 2025
Puss 'n Boots
July 15 – 26, 2025
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.
Summer Classes
Hannibal Hoedown with Tom and Huck
Mad Hatter's Tea Party with Alice
Huck Finn and Friends
Jabberwocky
Alice in Wonderland
Stories of Poe
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.