By Mary L. Grady

After a couple of seasons of belt-tightening, Youth Theatre Northwest (YTN) has balanced its budget for the first time in a decade.

Increases in single ticket sales and student tuition contributed to a gain in income of 18 percent over the previous year.

YTN, similar to many non-profit arts and educational organizations, has faced the challenge of an uncertain economy in the past few years. The organization points to fewer theatergoers, lower attendance in after-school classes and a more complex and competitive market for fundraising, all factors in making ends meet difficult.

This year, single ticket sales jumped by nearly one-third from last year, tuition paid was up 27 percent and subscription ticket sales increased by 15 percent. Revenue brought in by YTN schools production grew by nearly 70 percent over the previous year’s levels.

The organization also cut back spending by 7 percent and contributed income grew by 5 percent over 2003-04.

“This is great news,” said Monica Gardenier of the Board of Directors of YTN. “Our executive director, Ben Keylin, clearly outlined our mission and our goals when he arrived two-and-a-half years ago. Since that time he’s not only been working on getting that word out but also taking control of the operation and bringing strong business principals to work in our organization. It’s wonderful to announce to the public — but no surprise to us — that the organization is on a strong financial foundation.”

Said Keylin: “We’ve done pretty well, but every year is a new challenge. It’s all about doing things the community wants and needs and then getting the word out about our services to kids and families. The community takes pride in our organization and have been willing to help us succeed.”

The new Summer Stock theatrical season began with the production of HONK! and will continue with Ramona Quimby (Aug. 5 — 14) and Working (Aug. 26 — Sept. 4).

The new season will begin with Anne of Green Gables (Nov. 9 — 17), Magic (Jan. 27 — Feb. 12), The Hobbit (March 10 — 26), Jungle Book (April 28 — May 13) and Wind in the Willows (June 2 — 17). Class brochures are available and season tickets are on sale. Visit www.youththeatre.org or call the box office at 206-232-4145 x 109 for more information.