Playmakers Youth Theatre
We’re a community theatre program for youth and teens of all experience levels. Stretch your imagination. Gain confidence on and off the stage. Build lifelong friendships.
Why Playmakers Youth Theatre
We believe that youth theatre and performing arts programs should be inclusive, accessible and rewarding for all new and experienced performers. students in kindergarten through college are coached and monitored by experienced and talented directors and producers who are dedicated to developing individual talents while supporting all participants in learning life skills and growing as performers and people
26 Years Of Youth Theatre
12500 + Youth Performers
40 + Total Playmaker Shows
29500 + Attendees who have watched our shows
Playmakers Jr. Classes
A theatre class for children of all skill levels who are in kindergarten and first grade. This class-meets-rehearsal-process model is a perfect introduction to the arts or a great fit for a seasoned young performer. Explore performing arts fundamentals through improv and creative movement, the ins and outs of storytelling and play a character while rehearsing for a showcase featuring solos and speaking lines for each student.
Broadway Babies Starts March 2. Registration opens January 13.
Summer Camp
Extend your Playmakers Youth Theatre experience all year round with The Francine & Benson Pilloff Family Performing Arts Camp. A program in our J-Day Camps, youth participate in theater classes, art, swimming in The J’s outdoor pool, and electives such as improv, costume design, and puppetry — all while rehearsing their shows.
Registration for Summer 2025 is open now.
Northeast Ohio’s only 24-Hour Musical
Each summer, area teens and young adults audition blindly for an innovative, one-of-a-kind theater experience. They won’t know the show nor their role until rehearsal begins at 10 pm. They will stay up all night rehearsing, eating and having a blast with cast members. The audience will come to the show not knowing what they are about to enjoy. It’s a magical theatrical experience!
Past Shows
Featured Classes
Arts and Ideas, Adult
05/06/2025 - 05/08/2025
A workshop providing practical strategies and resources for caregivers.
Caregiving can be emotionally and physically taxing, but it also comes with significant financial challenges that often go unnoticed. This workshop addresses the financial fatigue experienced by caregivers and provides practical strategies and resources to help navigate these challenges effectively. Key topics covered including understanding financial fatigue, accessing benefits and resources, managing debt and financial obligations, and self-care and advocacy.
Arts and Ideas, Adult
05/21/2025 - 05/21/2025
An art appreciation class for adults presented by Cleveland Museum of Art that focuses on goods traded between Asia and Europe.
The Cleveland Museum of Art will bring Chinese and Dutch art to The J for an engaging program that features items such as Chinese silk, Dutch ceramics and Japanese enamelware. Throughout history, explorers have traveled to acquire "exotic" goods, using routes like the Silk Road and sea paths around Africa. We will examine the cultural exchanges and globalization involved in their creation and their relevance today. Participants can handle art objects and engage in observation and discussion.
Arts and Ideas, Adult
05/02/2025 - 05/23/2025
Learn the social game of Mah Jongg and participate in open play.
Mah Jongg matches one’s playing pieces, called tiles, to a set of possible hands. It is a very social game played around a table with four players. Those new to the game will learn the basic rules of play, strategies, tips, switching hands and more. Not a beginner? Just come to play! Registration includes the purchase of the 2025 National Mah Jongg card. Continue building your skills during drop in Mah Jongg on proceeding Fridays from 1-3.
Arts and Ideas, Adult
05/22/2025 - 05/22/2025
Gain essential knowledge on estate planning, understand the key differences between wills and trusts and explore strategies to safeguard your assets.
Discover the power of effective estate planning by joining our engaging workshop! In this dynamic session, you’ll explore the essential differences between wills and trusts, uncover strategies to safeguard your hard-earned savings and learn how to thoughtfully prepare for your beneficiaries. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take charge strategies to safeguard your hard-earned savings and learn how to thoughtfully prepare for your beneficiaries. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take charge of your estate and ensure your legacy. Join us for an enlightening experience that could make a lasting impact on your family's future!