On behalf of the staff, board and the thousands of children Youth Theatre Northwest (YTN) has served, I would like to thank The Mercer Island Community Fund for their generous support of the first production in our 33rd season, “Glinda of Oz.”
This is a special show for many reasons. It is a new, world premier production written by YTN’s Education and Outreach Director Kate Swenson and embodies the very essence of what YTN does best. It is a highly artistic show full of unique and entertaining characters, beautiful costumes, fantastic sets, creative props, amazing lights, original musical scoring and intricate projections.
Every one of our young actors has a featured moment and shines on stage in their own special way. The story features two intelligent and brave princesses who set off on a quest to bring peace to neighboring villages who are ruled by feuding dictators. Performing at the Mercer Island High School Performing Arts Center was a huge undertaking and this production would not have been possible without the support of the Mercer Island Community Fund.
It is no surprise to the community that YTN has had a challenging last few years. A lot has changed – we have lost our home and no longer have a real theatre. But the essence of YTN is the same; we are still producing wonderful stories for audiences to enjoy and offering creative education for ages 3-18. Our passionate ambition to inspire children to explore imagination, strive for excellence, develop self-confidence and express their individuality has not wavered.
The Mercer Island Community Fund has been the cheering section for many of the Island’s most beloved institutions for decades. From the Middle School Band to the Farmers Market, Island Youth Ballet to Summer Celebration and many more, the Mercer Island Community Fund creates opportunities for neighbors to come together and invest in the futures of our young people.
On behalf of our families and, most importantly, our aspiring young artists, thank you, Mercer Island Community Fund. We applaud your efforts and hard work and recognize the community you build every year through your vital support.
Jessi Wasson, YTN development director
