Theater

Theater is one of 10 artistic disciplines in YoungArts’ national competition. This discipline accepts applications inclusive of classical and contemporary spoken monologues as well as optional musical theater song selections. 

Winners in Theater performing during National YoungArts Week

Competition Eligibility

To be eligible, you must be able to answer ”Yes“ to these statements:

  • I am either a citizen of the United States, a permanent resident/green card recipient, or I can demonstrate that I am legally able to receive taxable income in the United States.  
  • I am in grades 10–12 or 15–18 years of age on December 1 of the year I am applying. 
  • If I’m selected as a Finalist, this would be my first time attending National YoungArts Week.

Application Requirements

The strongest auditions demonstrate range, a commitment to craft, dexterity of language and illustrate the actor’s ability to make clear, nuanced performance choices that best showcase their distinct voice.

The 2024 YoungArts application opens June 6, 2023.

Have Questions?

See our FAQ for answers to common questions about the competition and application.

Tips and Testimonials from Winners and Guest Artists

Application tips | Peter Jay Fernandez & MaryAnn Hu

What's the impact of National YoungArts Week? | Michael McElroy (1985 Theater) Guest Artist

How would you describe YoungArts? | Sean Stack (2015 Theater)

How did YoungArts impact your life? | Blake Pfeil (2006 Theater)

How did YoungArts impact your life? | Mara Jill Herman (2003 Theater)

What's your takeaway from YoungArts? | Adam "Ace" Anderson (2009 Theater)

Select Performances from Winners

William Ngong

Alyssa Sunew

Journee Brown

Amari Dyson & Ulises Otero Jr.

Elias Wachtel

Catarina De Luca Figueiredo & Madison Uphoff

Headshot of Kate Louissaint (2021 Theater)

Every dimension of my being was well fed, and I finished the week with nothing but raw inspiration to develop my craft and to cultivate empathy daily. I made more connections than I know how to convey.”

— Kate Louissaint (2021 Theater)