CLT is proud to be in its 3rd-year partnership with the Marion Barry Summer Youth Employment program (MBSYEP). For six weeks each summer, over 100 teens, ages 14 to 17, partner with CLT theater art professionals attending workshops, to prepare for the festival, where they learn playwriting, directing, acting, costume design, set design, light/sound design, stage management, and prop design. After the workshop sessions, the teens are put in charge of managing all rehearsals, including opening, and closing performances. “I have learned a lot this summer,” says MBSYEP teen Damaiya Stewart, Light Designer trainee, continuing Damaiya states, “I feel like working here has helped me develop my character and I met a lot of new friends.” Derrick Hawkins, Roosevelt High School Senior, and amateur photographer explains, “I was hired as a supervisor, supervising a staff of 4 teens. I learned to be patient, teach others what I’ve learned, and supervising isn’t easy. But the creativity I’ve been able to share made it worthwhile.” Kayla, Play Director trainee says, “I didn’t even know I could direct a play.” I got a lot of support and guidance from CLT staff, and I got to use my own ideas.”

 “We are proud to support the work of this organization. We look forward to the community coming out to support the creative and challenging work of these incredibly talented teens,” said Phil Pannell, Executive Director of the Anacostia Coordinating Council, and CLT sponsor.

We know you share our passion for youth in the theater arts. So, we are reaching out to you now asking you for your financial support to ensure teen artists can continue to make their valuable contributions to our community. Please consider sponsoring at the Gold, Silver or Bronze level.

As we prepare for our 8th annual 10 Minute Play Festival, we thank you for your supporting Wards 7 and 8 teens.

Please contact Jackie Carter, Executive Director with any questions at (202) 710-7819.