I caught a glimpse, yesterday, of an amazing program hiding under a bushel in Bellevue. Luckily, if plans come to fruition, their light is about to come out shining bright. I got a chance to spend an hour with James McClain, Administrator/Artistic Director of the Bellevue Youth Theatre (BYT) – and that’s all it took to see what a successful model of an inclusive arts community looks like.
In truth – and perhaps to its good – it grew up organically. I don’t think you can force an inclusive community, I think it has to be grown. Although I hadn’t ever thought about it in quite this way, a theatre community makes a great incubator. It started out serving youth – just trying to keep kids off the streets and positively occupied, eventually inviting in new communities – seniors, and then forming a partnership with a community of their neighbors who live with disabilities. Now, you find there a loving, inviting, inclusive community, where everyone is given a place and chance to thrive.
It was a double pleasure to visit with James. For a number of reasons, it has been quite a while since I have had the chance to walk around a working stage. The techs were hanging lights and sound for their next production; it brought back such wonderful memories of my days working in the theatre. In addition to loving the technical side, I was also reminded of the feeling of family that inevitably forms around those that work together to produce art. You hear it in voices; you see it in the way they interact with each other in that easy way of family; you feel it in the ways you are welcomed and nurtured for who you are – even when you are different from others. As a matter of fact, you are celebrated for those differences, for your own uniqueness.
Afterwards, as I walked to my car, I realized I wanted to come back, wanted to be there, wanted to be a part of the work being done there. And I wanted to tell all of you about the gem hidden over in Bellevue. I doubt they will be as hidden for long; word is starting to spread – especially as their supporting Bellevue Youth Theatre Foundation is raising funds to help build an accessible, green performing arts space. (Check out our home page for information on their upcoming fundraiser.)
As a program of Bellevue City, its programming is free for Bellevue residents; others are charged a fee (some scholarships are available). They no longer provide classes, but they offer summer Day Camps, as well as produce an impressive season of shows in several Bellevue venues throughout the year. Young and old of all abilities alike have found a home here; and Bellevue residents have a lot to be proud of in their little gem of a theatre.
I hope we’ll be partnering with them in the future – they’ve been invited to perform at this year’s ArtSpring! – and we’ll look for other ways to spread the great work they do. Bellevue Youth Theatre is one more way the arts are – piece by piece – helping building a more inclusive community.
Come on – come be a part of it!
For more information on the Bellevue Youth Theatre, check out their website at: http://bellevuewa.gov/bellevue_youth_theatre.htm