Why CAST?

"To engage, inspire and empower young people through the art and magic of theatre while providing a safe and nurturing environment where they feel free to express their creativity and individuality." - Jennifer Paquette, Founder and Artistic Director

CAST is a not for profit youth development project of Theatre Woodstock, based in the Woodstock Market Centre Theatre.

CAST provides young people between the ages of 7 and 19 with comprehensive training in the areas of drama, voice and dance. They not only learn how to rehearse and perform, many also become involved in the off-stage activities of mounting a successful production. They learn about keeping commitments and responsibility to their fellow performers. They are rewarded with the thrill of a room full of applauding people telling them they have done well!

CAST Artistic Director Jennifer Paquette's vision is an arts community where youth have a voice and are given the opportunity to develop their creative gifts. She feels that the benefits of creative self-expression are many - from increasing young people's problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills to stimulating their community involvement; from fostering teamwork to strengthening self-confidence.

CAST is comprised of 3 companies (junior, sophomore and senior) during its regular season (September to June). CAST's year is split into two sessions (fall and spring). CAST Senior Company is by invitation only and works with live musicians (full orchestra).

CAST also offers a summer camp during the month of August. This day camp runs for three weeks and offers campers extensive theatrical, vocal and dance training as well as activities such as camp challenges, fun days, hot lunches, crafts and more!

CAST staff members are experienced and innovative directors, artists, vocal teachers and choreographers who are dedicated to nurturing every young person in their individual disciplines.

CAST also provides young people with opportunities to mentor their peers, earn volunteer hours and gain jobs as camp counsellors, stage managers and more!

The instilment of such a limitless thing as youth theatre in a teenager's
life comes at a time of utmost necessity - a time when the opportunity to attain a belief in something, namely one's self, is vehemently necessary and unforgettable. CAST remains as one of these guiding lanterns, allowing the youth of today a voice among barriers of confusion, permitting a chance to learn how to learn, united as individuals. Cast begins as a challenge, continues as a friendship, and ends as an amalgam of incalculable and unparalleled change.
- Ben Alexander, CAST member from 1996-2002

CAST Youth for Youth Outreach

The 2006-2007 Season was host to the birth of a new arm of CAST; a youth for youth outreach program that raises money and awareness for youth based issues across the globe.

With guidance from staff members, CAST formed a volunteer youth committee whose mission is to reach out to other youth around the world. Our focus currently is Africa and the AIDS pandemic that has orphaned 16 million children and The Stephen Lewis Foundation is our benefactor. The committee has representation from all age groups at CAST, from 7 to 19.

To date, through a variety of inventive events, CAST kids have raised over $45,000 for the cause (and counting)! They are proving what a group of young people can accomplish. You may ask what this has to do with theatre for young people. It's about connection and community. It's about stimulating the human mind and spirit to assist in revealing the artist within. Developing empathy in young people is critical to their growth and success not only as an artist but as a person. We are excited about developing this new component to our programming at CAST!