Tolland Youth Services Community Theater Presents The Wizard of Oz This Weekend
Tolland Youth Services Community Theater Presents The Wizard of Oz This Weekend
Tolland, CT — A beloved summer tradition returns to the stage this weekend as Tolland Youth Services Community Theater (TYSCT) proudly presents The Wizard of Oz. Since 1997, TYSCT has been a cornerstone of Tolland Youth Services, providing a five-week summer theater program that is about far more than producing an outstanding performance- it is a program dedicated to building confidence, leadership, friendships, and life skills through the performing arts.
Each summer, approximately 130 youth ages 5–18 come together as cast and crew to produce a full-scale, two-act musical in just 20 rehearsals. Throughout the process, participants develop teamwork, responsibility, creativity, and perseverance while creating lasting memories and meaningful connections.
Producer Teresa Kristoff notes that the Buddy Program is one of the defining traditions of TYSCT, which pairs experienced participants with younger cast members to provide mentorship, encouragement, and support throughout the rehearsal process. "While audiences see the performance on stage, what they don't always see are the relationships built behind the scenes. Watching our older participants become role models for the younger cast members is one of the most rewarding parts of this program." The program also offers numerous student leadership opportunities, empowering youth to take an active role in production planning, problem-solving, and peer mentorship. Leadership positions, including the Youth Advisory Board, Student Director, Student Stage Manager, and other student leaders, help ensure that young people are active collaborators in every aspect of the production while gaining valuable leadership experience.
The success of TYSCT is made possible through the incredible support of the Tolland community. Partnerships with Town departments, generous donations from local businesses, and the dedication of committed volunteers help bring each production to life. Community members contribute in countless ways, from constructing sets and creating props to sewing costumes, transporting materials, and providing behind-the-scenes support, making this truly a community-wide effort.
Many of the program's staff members began their own TYSCT journeys as young performers, a testament to the lasting impact of the program. This year, Director Danielle Jones celebrates an extraordinary milestone: 25 years with TYSCT. Her continued dedication reflects the program's mission of fostering creativity, confidence, and community through youth theater.
This year's production of The Wizard of Oz promises an unforgettable journey down the Yellow Brick Road, showcasing the remarkable talent, hard work, and dedication of Tolland's young performers and crew. Performances will be held Friday, July 24, and Saturday, July 25, at 7:00 p.m. in the Tolland High School Auditorium.
Tickets are $13 in advance and $15 at the door. Advance tickets are available at tysct.ludus.com.
For additional information or assistance with purchasing tickets, please contact Teresa Kristoff at 860-871-3612 or tysctmusical@gmail.com.
Don't miss this opportunity to experience one of Tolland's favorite summer traditions and support the talented young performers who have worked tirelessly to bring the Land of Oz to life!