Innovative Theatre and Creative Education for Young People
Established in 1971, Performing for Los Angeles Youth (P.L.A.Y.) is Center Theatre Group’s award-winning youth theatre and theatre education program. P.L.A.Y. serves more than 35,000 young people, teachers and families annually through performances, residencies, discount ticket programs and innovative educational experiences. P.L.A.Y. is dedicated to the development of young people’s skills and creativity through the exploration of theatre, its literature, art and imagination.
P.L.A.Y. is committed to making Center Theatre Group’s world-class productions and theatre education accessible to students, teachers and families.
School enrollment programs enrich arts education at schools with low-cost access to a variety of P.L.A.Y.’s services. Program dates and capacity are limited, and applications are open to all schools and teachers on a first come, first served basis. Enrolled teachers commit to attending curricular workshops designed to give them the tools to prepare and follow-up on students’ exposure to live theatre. Teacher curricula and Discovery Guides for each student are provided as part of the package.
P.L.A.Y is improving arts education and cultivating strong partnerships between Center Theatre Group and schools. Using the creative process as a model for learning, our programs improve students’ knowledge of the performing arts as well as build self-esteem and literacy. Partnership selection processes vary. They are based on need as well as on a demonstrated capacity by the school and teachers to commit to the program. School partnerships are underwritten by Center Theatre Group’s generous donors.
Explore our Resources
Elementary School Programs
Start arts education early for a lifetime of enjoyment.
Middle School Programs
Keep young minds open and engaged.
High School Programs
Foster budding artists and art lovers.
For Educators
Integrate theatre techniques into classroom instruction.
For Families
Take the whole family to the theatre!
Discovery Guides
Enrich your theatre experience.
Major support for P.L.A.Y. is provided by the Center Theatre Group Affiliates, Center Theatre Group Corporate Circle and Wells Fargo.
