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| - In March 2014 I attended a Saturday matinee performance of Minotaur at YPT. I've seen theater for young people all over the US (because I work in arts education) and couldn't wait to see my first Canadian theater for young audiences show. I found out about the production because I recently directed a play in Brooklyn with children around the same myth. When I read further about YTP's international collaboration (you can read about it here: http://www.youngpeoplestheatre.ca/shows-tickets/minotaur/), youth ensembles, and in-school partnerships I really got intrigued.
From the get-go purchasing tickets online was easy, and I appreciated being given various seat selection choices - I paid about $30 a pop for 2 adult tickets. Arriving at the theater we were greeted by friendly box office staff and directed up the very whimsical stairway.
The house has very high ceilings, and is very grand feeling, I'm sure even more so for a child. We were surrounded by families, which we expected, and it was even more special to glance over and see little children on the edge of their seat, jaws dropped, or snuggled up next to their parents - especially for a play that creatively illuminates the famous Greek myth about the minotaur, Thesesus, and the labyrinth. The modern twist helped students to make connections to the story and reel in the audience.
After the show, a YPT staff member facilitated a conversation with the audience and actors. I was very impressed with the prepared questions for the kids, and the very thoughtful responses students made. You would have thought you were at an NPR taping - wonderful to witness a spotlight and respect for young voices. From the dynamic staging, sound design, lighting, versatile set, amazing costumes - not to mention a stellar acting ensemble, everything was professional as can be. I couldn't agree more with YPT founder Susan Rubes, "only the best is good enough for children." Bravo to the YPT staff, collaborators, and supporters!
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