I've hesitated to write this review for a long time but I still feel so disgusted with my experience that I had to share. Earlier this year, I registered my daughter for YPT’s summer camp by submitting the necessary forms and a $700 check by mail when registration opened. I never received any confirmation the registration was accepted or any communication from them - no email, call, or notice - when (embarrassingly) my check bounced. I was in the process of moving out of state and had tons of expenses between selling my house, buying a new house, and moving so I never even noticed it was returned. Months later, just one week before camp, the Director of the theater called me demanding immediate payment so my daughter could attend. When I explained that we were moving within days and my daughter would no longer be attending - and that I had never been informed about any issue - she became shockingly hostile. She accused me of “leaving her with the bag,” told me “we all have sad stories” when I mentioned being a single mom without extra funds, and continued berating me even after I suggested she fill the spot from their waitlist. Despite my request to end the conversation, she later cashed my $700 check. This kind of behavior is completely unprofessional and unkind, especially from an organization that works with children. The summer before, my daughter attended a wonderful, affordable theater camp in Ypsilanti where the staff were compassionate and communicative - the total opposite of this experience. I can’t in good conscience recommend Young People’s Theater. Parents deserve honesty, empathy, and basic respect - none of which...
Read moreYPT is a wonderful, nurturing and welcoming place for kids to learn acting, singing and dancing. Their shows are high-quality productions that almost rival what you see on Broadway! YPT also offers a variety of summer camps, which are a great way for kids to get their feet wet and develop skills that will serve them well on the stage, as well as in life! My kids, now ages 9 and 11, have been involved with YPT for 4 years and have loved every minute. I'd definitely recommend it for kids who are looking to develop their skills and gain experience in theater. (And, with respect to what the prior reviewer says, the staff at YPT always seem very happy! Many return summer after summer, and the director and music director who worked with my kids had been with...
Read moreThis place is astounding - the level of talent YPT gets out of kids is truly impressive. The producer and directors are all top notch and work so well with kids. They expect a lot, help kids grow out of their comfort zones, and it pays off in spades. Seeing YPT shows will ruin Broadway for you - they are that good. YPT goes above-and-beyond to be professional, organized, and supportive of their kids. My 2nd grader had an incredible experience at summer camp and in her first show. I have also never seen such a high level of volunteer work and parent participation. If your kid has the theater bug, I recommend checking...
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