“Being an advocate of the arts has always been important to me.” Vanessa Postil, Young Arts Ambassador Program Coordinator
The Young Arts Ambassadors Program is a nine-month course hosted by the Washington Center for the Performing Arts. It begins in October and finishes in May, culminating in a performance to showcase all that has been learned. Membership is open to young adults, ages 13 to 19. Although an application is required for acceptance, there is no cost to join.
Vanessa Postil has been leading the charge for this valuable arts program since its launch in 2014. She has an extensive background in performance and visual art as well as stage management and production, all of which are studied in the program.
Over the course of nine months, teens learn about all aspects of the arts world, including everything from fundraising and promotion to stage management and performance. Vanessa works hands-on with the students to teach the ins and outs of the industry she has spent much of her life immersed in. In addition to classroom time, participants are also required to attend Washington Center performances and write reviews to share on the Young Arts Ambassador blog.
The program was created to instill leadership into the youth of today through experience in volunteerism and arts exposure. While most participants are enthusiasts of the arts, it is not a requirement to join, nor is a background in the arts. The goal is for members to finish with strong connections to their community, an extended network of peers and an appreciation and passion for arts and education. In addition, leadership and life skills are taught and participates gain exposure to a real-life workplace environment.
The current students have finished their course and will be showcasing their skills through the producing of the Young Arts Ambassador Youth Showcase on May 6, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. The event will be held at the Washington Center Black Box Theater. This show is not to be missed and is open to the public. Attendees will enjoy a variety of performances including piano and dance as well as performances by members of Ballet Northwest. A discussion time will take place after the performance with a Q & A style conversation about the performances and the program in general. Cost to attend is a suggested donation to support YAA. The event is sure to entertain and is a great opportunity to support the community.
The Washington Center takes pride in offering this program to teens and young adults from all backgrounds at no charge. Keeping the arts accessible to everyone is very important, but requires support from the community and attending the Showcase is just one way you can help. You can also contribute directly to the program to ensure it continues to grow and flourish, and remain open and free of cost to all students.
In addition to donations, the Showcase will include a silent auction. Auction items include tickets to performances at the Washington Center, music, artwork and much more. All proceeds go to the Young Arts Ambassador Program. Private donations are always welcome.
For more information on how to get involved, visit the Young Arts Ambassador online to get in touch.
Programs like these do not exist without the hard work and dedication of people like Vanessa Postil. But they certainly would not exist without the community support The Washington Center receives year after year. The students have put a lot of time and energy into this final production, showcasing all they have learned this year. Join the community and rally around them this weekend, supporting the arts and supporting our youth at the same time.
Young Arts Ambassador Youth Showcase
May 6, 2017 6:00 p.m.
Washington Center Black Box Theater
512 Washington St SE, Olympia
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