Community members come together to celebrate 50 years of Young Actors Theatre.
Want to target the right audience? Sponsor our site and choose your specific industry to connect with a relevant audience.
Prominent brand mentions across targeted, industry-focused articles
High-visibility placements that speak directly to an engaged local audience
Guaranteed coverage that maximizes exposure and reinforces your brand presence
Interested in seeing what sponsored content looks like on our platform?
May’s Roofing & Contracting
Forwal Construction
NSC Clips
Real Internet Sales
Suited
Florida4Golf
Click the button below to sponsor our articles:
Sponsor Our ArticlesOn February 1, Tallahassee commemorated the 50th anniversary of Young Actors Theatre with a grand gala at Florida State University. The event attracted over 550 guests and raised $290,000 for a new endowment fund. Hosted by esteemed YAT alum Tony Hale, the evening included musical performances by current students and alumni, and the unveiling of an annual scholarship in memory of Aimee Nicole Sachs. Mayor John Dailey recognized the occasion by declaring February 1 as ‘Young Actors Theatre Day’ in Tallahassee, highlighting the theatre’s role in nurturing young talent in the community.
On February 1, the vibrant city of Tallahassee marked a truly special occasion as the Young Actors Theatre (YAT) celebrated its 50th anniversary in style. The elegant event took place at the beautiful Florida State University Student Union and turned into a memorable black tie gala, drawing in over 550 enthusiastic community members. This milestone event raised an impressive $290,000 for a new endowment fund, ensuring that the theatre’s legacy will flourish for years to come.
Adding a touch of star power to the celebration was host Tony Hale, an esteemed alum of YAT and a three-time Emmy Award winner. He took the stage to share heartfelt reflections on the importance of arts and arts education, making everyone in attendance proud to be part of such a rich institution. Attendees were thrilled to see familiar faces too, as many YAT alumni now thrive in various fields, from NASA to law, medicine, and even the bright lights of Broadway.
The festivities were further enhanced by the presence of James Frazier, the Dean of the Florida State University College of Fine Arts, who expressed a firm commitment to creating a nurturing environment for artistic expression. There were plenty of moments to cheer for, notably when Mayor John Dailey officially recognized the night by presenting the Key to the City to Tony Hale and declaring February 1, 2025, as “Young Actors Theatre Day” in Tallahassee.
The gala was not just about speeches; it also featured lively performances from current YAT students and talented alumni, showcasing the theatre’s amazing legacy. To remember and honor a cherished community member, the night also heralded the inauguration of an annual scholarship program in memory of Aimee Nicole Sachs. This commitment emphasizes the importance of nurturing talent and providing opportunities for aspiring young performers.
As the evening continued, guests got swept up in the rhythm of the dance set by DJ DEMP, a well-loved Tallahassee humanitarian, who also boasts his own Key to the City. It was clear that everyone was there not just for the celebration, but to contribute to an organization that deeply resonates with the heart of the community. Generous sponsors, including the Sipple and Campo Families, Chris and Kathy Doolin, and Carlton Fields, helped make the event a resounding success.
Younger generations will still have the chance to create their own magic on stage, thanks to YAT’s commitment to help students thrive, both onstage and off. Founded in 1975 by Tina Williams, the theatre has become a community treasure, offering performing arts education for students aged 3 to 18. It even stands as one of the few independent children’s programs with its own on-site theatre in the nation!
As a fitting close to the gala celebration, YAT premiered the classic Disney musical “Beauty and the Beast,” featuring a stunning cast of over 100 students. With Alison Grimes, YAT’s Music Director, recognized nationally for her outstanding contributions to theatre education, it’s no wonder that students who have worked with her sing her praises. Her dedication has empowered countless young performers to chase their dreams.
The influence of the arts goes beyond performance, significantly impacting the local economy. In fact, the arts and culture sector in Tallahassee generates a hefty $204 million and supports nearly 3,000 jobs! Young Actors Theatre’s mission extends far beyond the stage, aiming to cultivate future leaders through arts education and community engagement, reinforcing the notion that arts programs play a vital role in personal development and community cohesion.
With a rich history and an inspiring vision for the future, Young Actors Theatre continues to bring joy, creativity, and a sense of belonging to Tallahassee, one performance at a time.
Winter Storm Enzo Brings Disruptions to Tallahassee
Cultural Explosion in Tallahassee this January
News Summary Pensacola is bracing for a series of winter storms expected to bring snow,…
News Summary DigitalBridge Group is poised to acquire Zayo’s fiber solutions for $4.25 billion, expanding…
News Summary Davie, Florida, is set to witness significant changes as the iconic Signature Grand…
News Summary Tallahassee faces a concerning spike in gun violence, impacting residents and students who…
News Summary The South Boston St. Patrick's Day Parade is gearing up for an exciting…
News Summary Nita Lowey, the former congresswoman who served New York for over 30 years,…