Youth Theatre Institute set for June 24 to July 12

WWU faculty and staff get $25 discount

Western Washington University’s Department of Theatre and Dance will present its Summer Youth Theatre Institute from June 24 to July 12 on Western’s campus.

Now in its eighth year, SYTI provides a fun and engaging environment for youth to strengthen their self-confidence and forge new friendships. The institute is designed to help young theatre artists gain skills in a variety of areas including improvisation, warm-up techniques, design, dramatic writing, stage movement and choreography, all while working towards a final showcase.

“SYTI provided an opportunity for even the youngest and least experienced child to fully participate,” shared a SYTI parent. “The instructors kept things moving and fun for participants. The end result was a delightful performance.”

Directed by WWU Theatre professor Deb Currier and taught by WWU Drama in Education students, SYTI features both an elementary institute for students entering grades 1-5 and a secondary institute for students entering grades 6-12. Each institute culminates in an original production on the stage of Old Main Theater featuring scenes, songs, monologues and games demonstrating what the SYTI participants have been exploring and learning about.

This year’s elementary offering, themed “Fantastic Voyages,” will run two weeks from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Monday through Friday, June 24 to July 5, with a showcase performance at 12 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Friday, July 5. The secondary institute, themed “The Red Carpet!” will run for three weeks from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday through Friday, June 24 to July 12, with a showcase performance at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 5. Both levels do not have class on the July 4 holiday.

Registration fees are $275 for elementary SYTI and $375 for secondary SYTI with a $25 discount available for families registering multiple students, Alumni Association members, and WWU faculty and staff. Discounts are at the time of registration and cannot be combined. The registration fee includes the cost of instruction, materials, specialized facilities and a SYTI shirt.

For more information or to register, visit the SYTI website at www.wwu.edu/syti or call 360-650-3308.