TADA! Youth Theater

TADA! Youth Theater is a New York City theater company that runs several programs for children and young adults, including original mainstage productions and arts education programs. The company was founded in 1984, and has commissioned the creation of dozens of original musicals, such as

• Little House of Cookies (adapted by Janine Nina Trevins, music and lyrics by Joel Gelpe);
• Golly Gee Whiz, (Music, book and lyrics by Eric Rockwell and Joanne Bogart);
• Odd Day Rain, (book by Janine Nina Trevens, music and lyrics by Deirdre Broderick);
• Princess Phooey (Book and lyrics by Lisa Diana Shapiro, music by Eric Rockwell);
• Up To You (book and music by Eric Rockwell, lyrics by Joanne Bogart).

The ensemble performs three pre-professional musicals a year, open to the public. Members also receive free vocal, acting, and dance training. Several TADA! participants of the ensemble have gained publicity since participating in the program, including Amar Ramasar, Josh Peck, Kerry Washington, Azelia Banks, Jordan Peele, Ricki Lake, and Mizuo Peck. The education programs offer classes to children. Included in the education department are outreach programs, which provide classes at schools in boroughs other than Manhattan.