Description

YPT’s Junior Ensemble is an advanced program designed for young actors in Grades 7 and 8 who demonstrate a readiness for more advanced theatre training.

From January to June, students will work with a director and be guided as an ensemble to develop their acting, improvisation, and theatre-making skills. This program culminates in a 30–45 minute devised play to be performed in June.

We are pleased to welcome back Stephanie Zeit as the Junior Ensemble Director for 2026.

What is Devised Theatre?

Devised theatre is a form of theatre-making in which the script or performance is created collaboratively by a group, rather than starting with a pre-written script.

What to Expect in Junior Ensemble:

• In Junior Ensemble, students and their director work together through improvisation and discussion to develop the storyline, characters, dialogue, and staging.
• This process allows for a highly original, ensemble-based performance where the final piece reflects the unique ideas of the students.

The program is held in classrooms at YPT 161 Studios (161 Frederick St.) – just across the street from our theatre on Front Street East. From January to June, 2026 the Junior Ensemble meets on Saturdays from 2:00PM – 5:00PM.

We are hosting two Zoom information sessions for applicants looking for more details.

• Sunday, Nov. 9, 6-6:30PM
• Wednesday, Nov. 12, 7-7:30PM.

To receive the link to attend please fill out the form here.

Please Note:

• Auditions will take place in person at YPT 161 Studios  (161 Frederick St.) on Tuesday, Nov. 25, from 6-8PM
• Junior Ensemble’s final performance will be held the weekend of June 6-7, 2026
• Please note there are no classes February 14, March 21, April 4, and May 16, 2026.