History of CYT Vancouver/Portland

CYT was founded in 1981 in San Diego, California by Paul and Sheryl Russell who also founded Christian Community Theater (CCT) for actors of all ages. Since 1981, CYT has grown to be the nation’s largest children’s theater organization with programs in thirteen states. Every session more than 12, 000 kids participate in classes and over 100, 000 community members attend their performances.

CYT Vancouver was founded in 2002, and now enrolls more than 400 students each session. In 2007, CYT Vancouver expanded to Oregon and became CYT Vancouver/Portland. It now holds classes in Gresham, Oregon as well as in Vancouver and Washougal, Washington. We are excited to announce that classes will begin in Beaverton, OR in September 2009.

Because CYT does not own facilities, the organization rents space in the local community, utilizing classrooms and stages in churches, schools and local theaters. CYT is not affiliated with a particular church body, and people of all faiths are welcome.

CYT stands in the forefront in its commitment to the highest ethical, moral, technical and artistic standards of excellence. Instructors are professionals, qualified in teaching and/or performing, who must understand our mission statement, values, objectives and goals. All CYT staff strive to be excellent role models.

Mission

CYT is dedicated to developing character in children and adults through training in the arts and by producing wholesome family entertainment which reflects Judeo-Christian values.

Values and Objectives

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

• Developing character values in individuals including commitment, discipline, self esteem, confidence and integrity.

• Supporting the family unit through the direct involvement of each family
member’s talents, interests and abilities.

• Providing a quality product without compromising a wholesome environment.

• Being a godly role model promoting the awareness of a higher accountability.

Vision

 • CYT will be recognized as the best youth arts program in the nation.

• To make the arts as accessible to children as sports or scouting programs throughout the entire country.

• To build a CYT Performing Arts Center to serve as a national center for excellence in children’s theater, serving as a training ground for future generations in the performing arts.

Employment Opportunities

Current Open Positions:

 Now hiring CYT@School teachers and TAs for all sessions

Now hiring class teachers and TAs for Fall 2010 classes

Interested applicants should send cover letter, resume, and Job Application to the CYT office, ATTN: Bethany Larson. These positions are open until filled.