Young People’s Theatre Project Benefit an Exciting Showstopper

YPTP cabaret performers.

Portland, May 13th, 2013. An group of dynamic young performers entertained supporters at McMenamin’s Mission Theatre for a “Mission Possible” themed cabaret. The annual benefit raised over $10,000 for the important work of the Young People’s Theatre Project serving the educational needs of students in the Portland area. In addition to theater training and performances, the nonprofit YPTP is helping to preserve public school theatre programs by offering affordable turn-key options for musical productions.

Koleen Hall with her husband, Jeff Hall the Co-Director, Bonnie Auguston the YPTP Office Manager and Elaine Kloser who is also one of the program Directors

Steve Meyer, YPTP choreographer and musician Teri Meyer and Debbie Meyer

Michelle Horgen and Garen Horgen. Michelle just finished a musical retelling of “The Scarlet Letter.” Here’s a link for more information about the project: Scarlet.

Sue and Rob Skinner

Supporrters Anne Kayser, Mariel Klein, Pat Klein

A big focus of YPTP is the annual summer musical theatre production. Held at Camp Caldera in Central Oregon, the performing arts camp for senior cast members is an intensive two-week experience combining a complete theatrical production process with the unique activities of summer camp.

The cast of YPTP’s “Once on this Island” from last summer.

The cast of YPTP’s Second Stage Middle School production of “Cinderella.”

The Project’s 2013 Summer Performing Arts Camp adventure is about to begin, with Children’s Chorus, Junior Ensemble, and Tech Theatre students gathering on June 17 to begin work on the musical version of Tarzan. On June 29, the 54 principal cast members — middle and high school students from throughout the region — will meet at Caldera in central Oregon!

Then Disney’s TARZAN, featuring over 100 young people from the Portland area and beyond, will be performed July 11-14 at Jesuit High School’s Marilyn Moyer Theatre. Tickets go on sale June 22!

Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.