CYT is a one of a kind organization in that it accepts kids just as they are, and not only includes them but builds them up through encouraging them to do things that they never thought they could do – the confidence and self-esteem that this instills in them is priceless.  The topping on the cake to all of this, is it is done through a Christ centered atmosphere.  This is what I really love about CYT – is that it gives all the credit to Christ and makes Jesus and His efforts the central focus.  I don’t think there is another organization in the valley that offers this.  God is blessing CYT and it is an honor to be a part of it. 

Blair Semon

Blair began dancing at age three and has studied many styles over the years, with the most extensive training in tap, jazz, and ballet. She received her minor in Dance Education from Grand Canyon University in addition to a Business Management degree in 2016. Currently, Blair enjoys teaching and choreographing alongside her corporate day job and is delighted to be part of the CYT family for another season!

Diane Haviland

Tap dancing is my passion and I’m excited to join the CYT staff. I have extensive dance training in Tap, Ballet and Jazz and have been teaching and performing for over 25 years. I’m a graduate of Western Michigan University where I majored in Dance Performance and was a soloist in the University’s Ballet Company. A few of my accomplishments include: Dance Professor, Dance team coach and choreographer for the Musical Theatre Department for Southwest State University in MN, NBA Dancer for the Minnesota Timberwolves and the privilege of tap dancing with Gregory Hines for the promotional tour of his move ‘Tap’. Looking forward to tapping with you! P.S. I’m Blair’s Mom :)

Elena Conti

ELENA CONTI (Teaching Artist) is a social justice advocate, educator, and theatre artist. She is a recent graduate of Arizona State University, holding a BA in Theatre from the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts and a BAE in Secondary Education from the Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College. Elena views theatre through the lens of drama-based instruction and pedagogy, drawing from her classroom and professional experiences to guide her process. She values being a multifaceted theatre practitioner as a facilitator, mentor, teacher and artist. She loves being on the stage and behind the table to experience all aspects of theatre. She hopes to continue doing the hard work that promotes emotional, social, cognitive and physical resonance towards a better future. To everyone involved in the theatre arts: your health fuels your artistry, thank you for prioritizing it. Production credits: Until The Flood (Stray Cat Theatre, Director) Fairview (Stray Cat Theatre, Assistant Director), Cream! (ASU, Cast), Exposed (NCTC, Director), Marisol (ASU, Director), 1984 (NCTC, Julia), Julius Caesar (NCTC, Cassius), Adaptation (NCTC, Doris), 42nd Street (NCTC, Phyllis), Oklahoma (NCTC, Ellen), and How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying (NCTC, Ensemble).

Elise Palma

Hello! I'm Elise Palma, the new Artistic Director at CYT. As a director and teaching artist, I have the utmost love and dedication for the talented kids at CYT. It brings me immense joy to pour my heart into nurturing their growth, both on and off the stage. I believe in the transformative power of theater and its ability to provide a safe space for self-expression and personal development. Together with our team, I am committed to creating captivating productions while infusing character development into every aspect of CYT. I am grateful for this opportunity to lead and inspire these remarkable young performers. Let's embark on this artistic journey together!

Gavin Kennedy

Hi! My name is Gavin and I've been in love with dance for as long as I can remember. I started in Hip Hop when I was around 10 and since then I've worked in so many different styles. I love to choreograph and teach dance to people of all ages and experience levels. When I'm not dancing I also enjoy musical theatre! some of my most recent roles include Jeremy in Be More Chill, Warren in Ordinary Days, and The Duchess in Alice by Heart. "

Jenny Lynne

Dance to express not impress. The best thing you can be is kind. Expect nothing, be grateful for everything.

John Terpin

Hi! I got involved with CYT in highschool and really enjoyed the time I got to participate in both classes and mainstage shows. Getting to develop a love of theater in Christian community was such a great experience. In addition to CYT I have participated in community theater in the valley and projects of friends and family. I love theater because it sits in the intersection of so many beautiful disciplines. At its best, it empowers the whole person of each perfomer and brings together communities. I am currently working as a 2nd grade aide at archway north phoenix and would like to a pursue a career in elementary/theater ed.

Micah Ensor

Ryan Forde

I grew up doing CYT Chicago and I am excited to be teaching a class in Phoenix this spring! I am studying Theology at Grand Canyon University and leading Young Life at Sunnyslope High School. I am passionate about youth ministry, the outdoors, and theater!

Shawn Breeden

Shawn has been involved with theater both on stage and behind the scenes for over 30 years. Shawn is married to Autumn since 1999 and they have 4 children. Shawn is a therapeutic coach and owns his own business, Forward Walking.

Sydney Meyers

Sydney Meyers is a recent graduate in Vocal Performance from Grand Canyon University who grew up doing CYT. She has been teaching private voice lessons for five years as well as performing around the valley. She is so looking forward to teaching the students and glorifying God through theater! Crowns for Jesus! Sing for the King!

Thiago Palma

Thiago Palma (CHEE-Ah-goo Paul-mah), commonly called Chee, is a Brazilian-American actor. He was born and raised in Brazil but at the age of 17 he moved to the USA to be an exchange student and learn the English language. Thanks to acting scholarships, Thiago graduated from American universities with a B.A. and M.F.A. degree in theatre and acting. Thiago is known for his work in film and live theatre.