This spring, YMCA community centers across Pierce and Kitsap counties hosted dance recitals and theatre performances that brought together youth, families, staff, and volunteers. For many participants, it was their first time performing in front of an audience. For others, it was a chance to keep growing in a program they already love.
At the Tom Taylor Family YMCA, more than 100 dancers from preschool through teens spent months preparing for their recital. Along the way, they practiced choreography, learned how to work together, and built confidence in front of their peers and instructors.
“The dance recital was more than a performance,” instructor Regina shared. “It was a celebration of young people when they’re encouraged to learn, create, and shine.”
Across the association, each center brought something different to the season. At the Mel Korum Family YMCA, theater students helped bring original work to the stage, including pieces written by the students themselves. At the Haselwood and Bremerton Family YMCAs, dancers performed in an ocean-themed recital with support from staff, volunteers, and families. At the Pearl Street Family YMCA, dancers focused on movement as storytelling and character development as part of their performance.
The numbers show how many families are participating, but the impact is often seen in smaller amounts. Jean-Luc Pedanou, Executive Director of the Tom Taylor Family YMCA, shared that one of the most meaningful parts of the season was watching children step onto the stage, many for the first time. After one performance, a young girl told staff it was the best day of her life.
That kind of confidence doesn't happen overnight. It comes from weeks of practice, encouragement from instructors, support from family members, and the chance to be part of something with other kids.
YMCA arts programs help kids learn how to prepare, collaborate, and keep going when something feels new or challenging. Whether dancing, acting, helping backstage, or sharing something they created, kids are given the opportunity to be seen, supported, and proud of their work.
At the Y, arts programs are one more way kids can build confidence, make connections, and discover what they’re capable of.