YPT is an award-winning triple threat program developed by Porch Light Studio in 2009. Members of this one-of-a-kind company are selected by an audition process and receive advanced training in acting, voice & dance under the direction of musical theatre professionals. YPT members also participate in various performance opportunities throughout the season, including original and scripted musical productions, competitions, public appearances and Industry Showcases in NYC and NJ. YPT is a year-long commitment (late August - mid-June) and designed for students with a passion for theatre and performance and interested in a more focused training program.
Our program is open to elementary, middle and high school students. The YPT program consists of the following groups:
YPT JUNIOR I - Grades 4-5
YPT JUNIOR II - Grades 6-7
YPT SENIOR I - Grades 8-10
YPT SENIOR II - Grades 10-12
Groupings are designed to allow each performer the greatest opportunity for growth and development.
This weeklong intensive training operates much like a school day, with regimented blocks of class time and includes focused skill building and assessments in acting, vocal performance and dance. Subjects include character development, monologues, acting warm-ups, audition techniques, vocal performance as well as various styles of dance. The August Intensive is an important part of the training schedule and allows YPT directors to further assess students' skills and focus on areas that need further development. We may also use this time for actor's headshots and auditions for our first production. Students that have been accepted to the program or would like to audition, but cannot attend the August Intensive due to a previously-scheduled commitment will be required to make up the time at the beginning of the session.
Our 2022 August Intensive will take place in person at our Glen Rock studio, August 22-25. Hours will be 9am-3pm, with specific groupings/schedules announced once final enrollment is confirmed in mid-August.
YPT members are required to attend weekly technique classes to enhance their performances and build fundamental skills. These classes are generally held on Thursdays afterschool/evening hours. YPT members recieve training in monologues, character development, methodology, audition preparation and technique, industry coaching, stage combat, vocal performance and much more.
Saturday mornings/afternoons are generally reserved for rehearsals for the upcoming production. Rehearsal times are based on age group/division and will be announced upon acceptance.
Additional hours may be required for rehearsals and techs leading up to performances. Performances are held on weekends and students must attend every technical rehearsal and performance to maintain participation in the group. Open studio (additional rehearsal time) and technical rehearsals will be held on Tuesdays as needed.
While we make every effort to encourage students to be well-rounded and participate in outside activities such as school drama clubs, dance classes, sports and other activities, YPT is a committment that students and parents must consider and prioritize their schedules accordingly. Conflicts must be approved by your director and submitted in advance whenever possible. Multiple unapproved absences may result in loss of roles and/or place in the troupe. If you have further questions about scheduling or conflicts, please contact Ryan Pifher.
Enrollment in YPT is based on an annual tuition payable in automatic monthly payments (approximately $349-$379 per month). A deposit is due at the time of acceptance/enrollment and monthly payments continue August-June. Tuition may also be paid in full by check ($100 discount will be applied). Returning members receive a discount on tuition. Additional fees may be billed for costumes, headshots and entry fees to competitions. Fees are about $200-300 per year, but are dependent on the specific performances/activities each season.
Tickets and show merchandise are available for purchase at your discretion.
YPT members are selected by an audition process. Auditions for our upcoming season begin in February/March. If your child is interested in auditioning for our YPT program, click below to apply. Students are notified of acceptance in approximately one (1) week and must confirm their enrollment by the deadline to reserve their space.
If you have further questions about our Youth Performance Troupe, please contact info@porchlightproductions.org.
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