By Adena Varner, Director of Arts Engagement

The Old Globe believes that theatre has the power to have a meaningful impact in the lives of the community members we serve, particularly for young people discovering their voices and creative potential. Through our youth programs in City Heights, we have seen firsthand how access to the arts fosters confidence, compassion, and a sense
of belonging.

Programs like Creative Youth Studios provide students with a space to explore storytelling, performance, and self-expression in a supportive environment. Many of these young artists enter our programs feeling hesitant, unsure of their abilities, or disconnected from the larger community. However, through the collaborative process of working as an ensemble they learn new skills and begin to see themselves in a new light.

Beyond artistic skills, these programs nurture essential life skills like communication and creative problem-solving that serve them far beyond the stage. Students and teachers regularly share how participation in our programs has led to increased confidence in the classroom, stronger leadership skills, and a newfound excitement toward
self-expression.

The Old Globe is committed to sharing the experience of making theatre with our youth. Creative Youth Studios and our other youth initiatives are not just training future actors and artisans, they are building future leaders, storytellers, and engaged citizens. We are inspired by the growth we see in our students, and are excited to continue this journey with them. We thank you for your support and well-wishes as we continue to partner with our administrators, teachers, students and families to bring theatre to places where it may be seldom seen.

Photos: (from top) Teaching Artist Randall Eames (left) and students at Wilson Middle School during rehearsal of The Lion King, 2023. Photo by Stephanie Ochoa. Students during lighting tech rehearsal of The Lion King at Wilson Middle School. Wilson Middle School students during rehearsal of The Lion King, 2023. Photos by Rich Soublet II.