Youth Artist Project
Back for the seventh year, the Youth Artist Project partners student artists with professional theatre artists and educators to bring a show to life! By pairing high school students with professionals in the field, students develop their own artistic vision, collaboration and communication skills, and have an authentic, real-world opportunity to apply their skills to mounting a full production of their own design. Whether they pursue a career in the theatre or not, the teamwork, leadership, and collaboration skills they learn through the process will benefit them in any profession.
This project is deeply connected to our mission of bringing our community together through shared theatre experiences and ensuring everyone has access to the transformative power of the arts. From the high school students who engage with the project as first-time designers and directors, to the mentors who guide throughout the production process, to the kindergartners who enter the Helgeson Learning Lab Theatre for the first time, to the youth who make their stage debut performing, GREAT’s Youth Artist Project opens doors and connects our community through the joyful experience of theatre.
High School students from across Central MN will fulfill the following roles under the mentorship of theatre professionals: Director, Choreographer, Music Director, Costume Designer, Scenic Designer, Properties, Sound Designer, Lighting Designer. The student team will design and direct Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play! Jr.
Applications for this years Youth Artist Project have closed. We hope to see you at the show!
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Elephant & Piggie’s We Are in a Play! Jr.
Script and Lyrics by Mo Willems
Music by Deborah Wicks La Puma
Based on the Elephant & Piggie Books by Mo Willems
Get ready for a wild and whimsical ride based on the beloved book series by Mo Willems! When Elephant and Piggie set out to put on a play, everything goes hilariously wrong—and even more hilariously right.
Full of joy, laughter, and heart, this charming production is ideal for kids and families. With vibrant characters, catchy tunes, and plenty of memorable moments, Elephant & Piggie reminds us all of the power of friendship and being a little silly along the way!
Questions about the YAP program? Reach out to Kendra Norton Dando, Artistic & Education Director. Kendra@GREATTheatre.org
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board and the Central MN Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.