Players 3
Chickenshed Players
Our Pre-Teens Program is a dynamic, two-semester journey in theatre-making, offering young people the opportunity to perform in two mainstage productions each year — one scripted in the fall and one devised collaboratively in the spring.
In the fall semester, Players work with professional theatre practitioners and youth leader mentors to rehearse and perform a scripted production, building performance skills, confidence, and ensemble connection through our inclusive, no-audition process.
In the spring semester, the group devises an original musical production using our signature inclusive approach — one that centers the voices, experiences, and ideas of the young people involved. This past semester, for example, the Players explored the concept of artificial intelligence and its impact on the arts. With guidance from a guest scientist, they investigated the potential benefits and challenges of AI, weaving their discoveries into a powerful, youth-led performance.
Throughout the year, our program ensures that every participant has a genuine sense of ownership over the work they help create. Each workshop, rehearsal, and performance is rooted in community, creativity, and connection — with a focus on developing both artistic expression and essential life skills in an affirming, supportive environment.
