MAKING LAS VEGAS A BETTER PLACE TO LIVE

Rainbow Youth Company teaches life lessons to local kids

By Beth Fisher

CREATED Oct. 9, 2012

  • Print

  • Rainbow Youth Company Theatre offers classes for kids starting at the age of 4 Video by ktnv.com

    video

Las Vegas, NV (KTNV) -- It's lights, camera, action for one of the best kept secrets in Las Vegas.

Rainbow Youth Company Theatre offers classes for kids starting at age four.  But then, when kids reach age 10, they can audition to be part of the ensemble.  The kids run the audio.  Kids build the sets.  Kids handle the lighting.  Kids make the costumes.  Kids make the shows happen.

Artistic Director Karen McKenney-Dryer says, "They do everything. They all have to audition for the shows. and when they're not cast, they are given another assignment. They do sound, build the set, usher.  It is their program."

The ensemble does four family friendly productions a year.  The star of one show could be the guy taking your tickets at the next one.  Ensemble members say it's a team effort they take very seriously.
  
The program is funded by the City of Las Vegas.  And yes, it's taken a budget hit just like every other city department.  But when you consider the impact is has on local audiences and these kids, it's an investment you can't argue.
 
McKenney-Dryer says, "We're not just bringing up theatre artists we're bringing up adults. and we're making them better citizens. better people. we teach them responsibility."
 
Tom Sawyer returns to the stage Friday, Oct. 12-14 at the Charleston Heights Arts Center.  Ticket prices range from $3 to $7.