Friends of the Palo Alto Childrens Theatre

A quality arts education does more than just provide kids with the skills they need to become future arts professionals.  The Palo Alto Children’s Theatre’s low-cost and subsidized programs promote the development of the whole child – helping to build a healthy self-esteem while teaching problem solving and team building skills. 

“The difference between science and the arts is not that they are different sides of the same coin… or even different parts of the same continuum, but rather, they are manifestations of the same thing. The arts and sciences are avatars of human creativity.”

– Dr. Mae C. Jemison – Physician and NASA astronaut.

The tremendous success of our programs, evident in the diverse accomplishments of alumni who have gone on to successful careers such as elected government officials and professional artists, has led to full-to-capacity classes and waiting lists for current programs.  As we strive to meet an increasing demand from our community, the donation you make this year to the Friends of Palo Alto Children’s Theatre is more vital than ever.

Each year, generous donations help close the gap between the City of Palo Alto’s contribution to the theatre and the cost required to run top-quality arts education programs, ensuring that the Friends of the Palo Alto Children’s Theatre may continue to:

* Support low-cost and subsidized theatre, music and dance programs for more than 3,000 youth each year, with opportunities to learn both on stage and off, as well as in the classroom, in all areas of production and administration.

* Make participation in a production accessible to all, so that any child with an interest in the arts may take part in our programs.

* Maintain low ticket prices, so that any children and families with an interest in the arts may have access to high-quality, family friendly theatre experiences.

* Provide opportunities for youth of all skill levels, with classes that promote development of the whole child – promoting a healthy self-esteem while developing problem solving and team building skills.