CYT North Idaho is so much more than an after school theater arts training program for kids ages 6 to 18.  Our program prepares kids for their future.   Studies have shown that kids who participate in theater arts training do better in school, have better confidence and mental health, build skills related to leadership, time management, problem solving, are better employees and much more.  We are CYT, the Christian Youth Theater North Idaho, a 501- (c)(3) non-profit and part of a national organization whose mission is to give kids the tool to find success in their future through education in the arts.  We believe all kids should have access to arts education. Last year CYT North Idaho gave over $1,500 in scholarships to students so that they could be part of our CYT family. This year CYT North Idaho’s goal is to raise $3,000 for our scholarship fund so CYT is available to more students to participate in our classes, camps and CYT at school programs. To accomplish this goal, we need your HELP.  

Starting on Giving Tuesday and each day through the month of December, we will be highlighting current and former students as they share their amazing and touching stories of how CYT positively impacted their lives.

 Since we started CYT in North Idaho 13 years ago, the program has been transforming the lives of local children, adults, and our community, with wholesome programs and entertainment that bring families together. 

Would you help us GIVE CYT to a Student this #GivingTuesday?

Our Mission Statement: 

 To develop character and creativity in kids of all ages through quality theater arts training that brings families and communities together while reflecting the Creator.  All faiths and denominations are welcome.

CYT Values and Objectives:

Developing character traits and abilities in individuals including commitment, discipline, self-esteem, confidence and integrity.  

Sustaining the family unit through the direct involvement of each family members' talents, interests and abilities. 

Providing a quality product without compromising a wholesome environment.  

Placing the maximum worth on people and treating each individual with respect and significance.

WHAT CYT HAS MEANT TO ME, by Machaiah

I started CYT when I was 9 years old as a seahorse in the Little Mermaid. I had just moved from New York and was simply looking for an activity to do. I had no clue how much of an impact CYT would have on my life. 

          If you had met me during my first couple shows, you probably would have thought I was a shy, sweet little girl. I played more ensemble characters than I can remember, and I loved it. I didn’t know many people, and I didn’t really care because I enjoyed the environment and being on stage so much. But I’ve certainly grown since then, and CYT was a big part of that growth. 

          If you saw me now at CYT, shy would not be the word that comes to mind. I made many lifelong friends there, and love interacting with the younger kids. I’ve gotten to play some exciting roles, my favorite being the White Witch in Narnia, which has really boosted my self-confidence. I’ve learned how to communicate with adults in an appropriate way as I’ve transitioned from a girl to a woman. And, I even grew to know and fall in love with my now fiancé in the CYT environment. It has definitely changed my life for the better. 

                            Why I love CYT, by Jared

When I first started CYT, I was a shy little twelve-year-old, and I never expected to become as involved in the program as I am today. As soon as I walked through the door to my first class day, I had new people talking to me and wanting to know more about me, and that’s when my love for the program started. Once I joined the HYPE (High school Youth Pursuing Excellence) program, it taught me new skills to use when communicating with others, how to be a light to people, and how to relate to the younger kids. I have grown up with the program for about five years now, and I can see how it has made me more of an outgoing and caring person overall.

            The friends that are made through CYT are friend that you can always count on. I LOVE my CYT friends. At school, I never really could find a group of “real” friends, but once I joined CYT, I felt as if everyone was my friend, or even family! My friends that I have made through CYT are friends that are most likely going to be around for the rest of my life. In a society like today’s, it feels extraordinary to have true, genuine friends who care about me and friends that want to make the right decisions in a messed-up world that we have.

Thank you for supporting CYT North Idaho!