Archive

Thank you for making Sera feel confident that she can be cast for any part if she puts in her best effort– even a part that would normally be played by a white, blond girl. She called herself the “Asian Elle Woods” and I absolutely loved that.

Jamie Koh

Dear YADA Family,

Because of YADA and their performances, our daughter Marley has grown tremendously.  As result of her working towards these shows she has learned the value of hard work and what it takes to make a performance great, by rehearsing at home, focusing in class and learning her lines. She’s learned the importance of punctuality and accountability and how important it is to be on time and ready to rehearse.  She’s learned the value of teamwork as it takes collaboration of others to make a performance come together.  And from that collaboration she’s made amazing friends at YADA and what the value of that friendship means.

Marley’s confidence and self-esteem have grown incredibly since she stared doing YADA performances.  The little girl that started as apprehensive and shy has grown into a young lady that has no problem storming out onto stage, belting out songs and dancing her heart out. This is something that her mom exclaims that she herself could never do. And because of that confidence that YADA has instilled she’s willing to use that voice to support what she believes in….All of them being amazing fundamentals that have benefitted Marley.

However, for her mother and me the greatest benefit besides those listed above are the memories. The pictures, the videos, the hugs, kisses and smiles during and after the performance are unbeatable…and none of them would be available to our family without the financial aid program and incredible generosity of the staff and decision makers at YADA.

We thank you,

The Rices (Chris, Jessianne & Miss Marley)

I also wanted to pass along a quote from Josie Aaronson, age 8:

“Mommy, I can’t wait for YADA to begin again. It is my happy place and I just love it there. It feels like they are family and that I just belong”

Thank you for creating this amazing space for my children to thrive!

Leslie Aaronson

First off, Howard and I can’t thank you enough for the incredible experience you gave Guy with The Lion King.  We were blown away by the production from all sides – set and costumes but even more importantly the joyful actors!  We still have no idea how you pull something like that off in two weeks.  Guy can’t stop talking about it.

And thank you for your generosity with Guy, who had never remotely attempted anything like this.  He can’t wait to come back.  As parents who almost exclusively are at baseball games, :o)  seeing this side of Guy was mind bending and so exciting.  Annie and JR were wonderful directors.  Please pass on our thanks to them, Jonathan and everyone there for a beautiful two weeks that Guy (and us) will not soon forget.

Many thanks!

Anne and Howard

YADA really brings the magic out that kids have inside them. theatre in general is so wonderful for kids learning how to present themselves onstage. At YADA they get to perform with their friends and be silly and have fun. My daughter just loves it. It is a truly magical place with the best teachers in town. Truly. I LOVE IT. My daughter stella loves it. The productions are top notch. It is just so heart warming that a place like this exists in Los Angeles. Kids get to learn how to be on stage and sing and dance their little hearts out. YADA is just the best!!!! My daughter gets so excited every time her rehearsal class rolls around. She loves putting on her rehearsal clothes and really getting to work and learn about the craft of theatre and the joy that comes from the community of theatre. All the kids putting on a show together. This is what got me interested in acting when i was little. It was getting to be in a show with my friends. YADA just has the magic!! It is a truly special place. I really cannot say enough about how wonderful YADA is and how much my daughter loves it.

Molly Shannon

First, a big big thank you to the whole YADA team for making Willy Wonka and every single show produced such an amazing experience for my girls, and for making YADA such an amazing, nurturing and loving place; a place where its great to succeed but its also ok, and just as much fun, to take the journey to success.

After the show last night I feel that I have to share how impressed we were with the performance of the kids, both as individuals and as a cast.  Each and every kids sparkled and was amazing but as a team, as a cast the were just spectacular, especially given how young they all are.  Hat’s off to Nicole and JR for working magic with these kids!!! 

The kids can’t wait for the next show!!!

Yael (Daniella, Lia and Shira’s mom)

Yael

This is our first experience with YADA and it’s clear to see why it came so highly recommended. Every experience we’ve had, and each person we’ve talked to, has been helpful, caring and friendly. It’s been a wonderful experience for our family, especially Elizabeth. She loves every second she’s there, and talks non stop about YADA when she’s home. Thank you for creating a safe, nurturing, challenging and fun environment for her.

Nancy Guyer

Just a quick note to say thank you!  We are so excited to see the final production of Annie this Friday. This has truly been an amazing experience for Isabella and she has absolutely loved every minute. She has been studying musical theatre for a couple of years now, but YADA definitely raises the bar!  

We have been so impressed by the curriculum and caliber of YADA Directors. Beyond the amazing set design, costuming and theatre experience YADA offers its students, we’ve appreciated the time and focus on character development and vocal characterization.  We definitely believe that YADA’s Jr. Master Class is perfect for Isabella and her continued growth and development.

Gillian Medina

Madeline loves it and definitely wants to continue. I have always admired her work ethic. It is all her and I think its because she really loves it and comes from a genuine passion for the music, material, and the idea of performing. We will continue to encourage her and hope that as she continues she exhibits that same passion and confidence when on the stage. We know that Maddie thrives when she feels connected to those teaching, counseling, and mentoring her.

Again, thanks for having and working with her!

Susan and Adam Zelinka

Thanks so much! We are thrilled to watch Chase light up talking about her special time at YADA. It’s made her a more confident little girl. It’s truly her home away from Home!

Brielle Cohen