Website for Youth Musical Theater Company: http://www.ymtcberkeley.org/

Re: Drama Classes/Camp for 13 year old
It's true that for most programs, a kid often has to start with supporting roles at first, however my son has been doing drama camps and programs during summers and schoolyear for the last 5 years - he's 14 now, and has always had a total blast and learned a lot, sometimes in the chorus or in small roles, sometimes getting bigger ones. And even those in the chorus are usually on stage quite a lot. I HIGHLY recommend both the programs he's been involved in (both in Berkeley: Stage Door - no audition necessary (www.stagedoorconservatory.org) and YMTC - by audition (www.ymtcberkeley.org). laurie

Has anyone had experience with YMTC (Youth Musical Theater Company) or have any suggestions for a great theater experience for a 13 year old boy during the summer or school year? Thanks. Drama Mama

My son has done all the local theater opportunities such as Cal Shakes, Contra Costa CCAC, Fairyland, Julia Morgan and Revels but YMTC has been the most rewarding one for him. He will be auditioning for Fiddler on the Roof (playing in November) during the week of June 2nd. He is also taking one of their summer workshops in August, which is a great way for your child to test the waters. You can learn more about this by going to their website: http://www.ymtcberkeley.org/ or contact 510-595-5514 or feel free to e- mail me! drj

Re: Musical theater opportunites for a teenager
Hello, I wanted to respond to your question about great musical theater in the area. Your timing couldnÂ’t be more perfect! I am a parent of a teenager who loves to sing and act. I have lots of information about all the options in our area. I am total impressed with the professionalism of the one he is currently involved with the Youth Musical Theater Company. This weekend will be the opening of their next production, Man of La Mancha, which will be performed at the Longfellow Middle School Auditorium on October 26-28 and November 2-3. You might have seen the article about YMTC and MAN OF LA MANCHA in last Friday's Berkeley Voice, if not you can still check it out now at: http://www.contracostatimes.com/berkeley/ci_7223269?nclick_check=1

One thing that I wanted to be sure to tell you is it that Man of La Mancha is just the beginning of their new season and expansion. I mean it when I say that your timing couldnÂ’t be more perfect. My son has loved every minute of his three years with the group. YMTC is entering a period of a lot of growth that I am very excited about. I think that the theater that YMTC does is fantastic. They offer a variety of classes and workshops, and are trying to bring more professional artists into their activities, offer more mentorship and structure to students interested in the technical aspect of theater, and most thrilled about their move into a relationship with the Julia Morgan Theatre Center as their future artistic home.

They and I are very excited about all the growth and invite you to join and help them get even better! There are lots of ways for you and your daughter to do so:

1) Come see Man of La Mancha 2) Let them know that you might be interested and supportive of what YMTC does? Maybe you might like to attend an informational event-with food, and a performance by some of the students and the artistic director. Obviously I am crazy about this group – I am happy to talk to you or any other parents who are interested in hearing about it or you can go to their website at: www.ymtcberkeley.org or e- mail them directly at :info at ymtcberkeley.org, or call 510-595-5514. jessica

YMTC Announces its Summer Musical Theater Workshops. Youth Musical Theater Company, which recently produced "WEST SIDE STORY", is holding musical theater workshops this summer for students entering grades 7-12. During these one week intensives, WSS director, JENNIFER BOESING, will help students develop their skills as singer/actors through improvisation, exercises, theater games, and scenes from a variety of musicals. From vocal technique and movement for actors, to character development and relationship-building onstage, the very particular challenges that face a performer when acting through the medium of song will be addressed. There will be an informal performance for family and friends on the last day of each workshop (Saturday).

Accompaniment will be provided by pianist, Skye Atman. Workshops will be held at a private home in north Berkeley; sessions are limited to 15 students.

Session I: June 14 - June 19
Session II: July 12 - July 17
Session III: July 26 - July 31