Under the very competent direction of Mary and Maryanna Ray, school children are learning the basics of theatre; stage movement, voice projection, memorization of lines, and, most of all, responsibility to the group.

The project was started as a means to instill a an interest in the creative art of acting, to introduce a way for children to use their imaginations in a positive way, and to create a spirit of commitment and dedication to the ultimate goal of theater – a successful production.

Stage experience can be helpful in giving young people the self-confidence to speak in public in their school lives, and to understand other cultures and beliefs through acting them out. Wayside Theatre offers this valuable program to the community without charge, and all are welcome.

Theatre also is a good way in which to get the family involved in their children's interests, and we find that we are getting great support in that area. The Wayside Board of Trustees is hoping that these current Youth Theatre members will return from year to year and eventually become a source of actors for our regular stage plays.

It is gratifying to see a shy and self-conscious ten-year old blossom into the ability to play the part of a strong stage character is a very short time. A third Youth Theatre session will scheduled in the fall, and a date for registration will be announced in the Gazette. Information is available by calling 924-8813.