If your child has always dreamed of being on stage — or just needs a boost of confidence — the Livonia YMCA is the place to be this winter. They’re launching a theater program for children in grades K-12, which includes classes and the chance to be in the Y’s production of the Wizard of Oz.
Youth and Family Director Joanna Motowski has a background in theater and majored in it at Eastern Michigan University. Upon graduation, she returned to her hometown in Illinois and started a theater program at a Y there. When she got married and moved to Michigan, she took the job at the Livonia Y. And then fate took over. One day, Patsy Girnys, a local resident who has a master’s degree in drama for the young, stopped by the Y to ask about the possibility of teaching some youth drama classes. Joanna had wanted to start a theater program, so they decided to work together.
Auditions for The Wizard of Oz are Tuesday and Thursday at 6:30, at Frost Middle School right next door to the Y. Everyone who auditions will be given a role, and there will also be opportunities for stage crew positions.
The idea is to bring the benefits of theater to all kids, regardless of experience, Joanna says. “I really believe in the impact theater has on children, especially in a safe environment that allows kids to express themselves and use their imagination and communication skills. They also gain skills to be able to stand in front of an audience and feel confident doing that.”
It also creates an opportunity for kids who may not be athletic to be part of the Y, she says. And the community created by working together to bring a theater production to life forms some great bonds between kids and their families. “By the end of the show, families are exchanging numbers — there are so many positives that come together.”
There’s a $125 total fee for participating, which covers rental fees and royalties for the play. Joanna emphasizes that the Y can offer scholarships or payment plans to make it easier for people to participate.
Performances are April 10-11, and rehearsals will continue on Tuesdays and Thursdays until that time. “It’s a great opportunity for kids to learn and improve their skills without any pressure on them,” Joanna says.