National Youth Theater Debuts in Fort Bend with Frozen Jr. Auditions This September
Families across Fort Bend County now have a new outlet for creativity, confidence, and community connection as the National Youth Theater (NYT) opens a new West Houston location in Richmond. With its debut show set as Disney’s Frozen Jr., NYT is welcoming students ages 8–18 to audition this September, marking the beginning of a new chapter for youth theater in the region.
NYT West Houston will host all auditions, rehearsals, and performances at Grand Parkway Baptist Church, conveniently located at 12000 FM 1464, making it accessible to families in Sugar Land, Richmond, Rosenberg, Fulshear, and Katy.
Opening Act: Frozen Jr.
The group’s first production—Frozen Jr.—brings the beloved characters of Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and Kristoff to life on stage in a 60-minute musical adaptation that’s tailor-made for young performers. Featuring the iconic songs Let It Go, Do You Want to Build a Snowman?, and more from the original film and Broadway production, Frozen Jr. captures the magic and emotional depth of the story in a way that’s age-appropriate and inspiring.
Auditions for the production will take place on Friday, Sept. 5, from 5:30–8:00 p.m., with callbacks on Saturday, Sept. 6, both held at Grand Parkway Baptist Church. A free audition workshop is also being offered on Tuesday, Sept. 2 to help students prepare.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
The $200 participation fee includes:
- Up to 60 hours of theater instruction
- A character photo
- Professional performer photos
- Opportunities to make friends, build confidence, and create lasting memories
To register or learn more, families can visit www.nytwesthouston.org.
Why Theater Matters for Kids
While kids may come for the fun of performing, the benefits of youth theater go much deeper. According to the American Alliance for Theatre & Education, students involved in drama programs show:
- Higher reading comprehension
- Improved school attendance
- Increased self-confidence and empathy
- Better collaboration and problem-solving skills
The organization also notes that acting helps children safely explore emotions and perspectives, building social-emotional intelligence—critical for navigating both school and life.
“It’s not just about the stage—it’s about what happens off-stage too,” said Cassandra Teel, a Sugar Land resident helping lead the launch of NYT West Houston. “Fort Bend County is an amazing community in which to raise children. NYT is adding an exciting new way for children to gain confidence while having fun”.
Teel, who has homeschooled her four children for the past 12 years, says this program combines her passion for faith and the arts. “I’m thrilled to return to the theater world alongside my youngest daughter and to share in the ministry of NYT. I feel blessed to combine my faith and my love of theater,” she shared.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
A Legacy of Youth Theater
Founded by Executive and Artistic Director Justin Parks, NYT is a Christian ministry that aims to create life-changing experiences through the performing arts. Parks has a long history of both performing and building youth theater programs nationwide, including roles in Singin’ in the Rain, Blood Brothers, Footloose, West Side Story, and The Drowsy Chaperone.
Before launching NYT, Parks co-founded CYT Chicago/Spotlight in 1997 and has helped start up multiple youth theaters across the country. He also runs Theater by Design, a specialty costume and prop rental business.
Now, with the expansion into Fort Bend County, Parks and the NYT team are opening the doors for a new generation of kids to find their voice and purpose—on stage and beyond.
Quick Facts
- Audition Workshop: Tuesday, Sept. 2
- Auditions: Friday, Sept. 5 | 5:30–8:00 p.m.
- Callbacks: Saturday, Sept. 6
- Ages: 8–18
- Location: Grand Parkway Baptist Church, 12000 FM 1464, Richmond, TX (MAP)
- Cost: $200 (includes instruction, photos, and performance experience)
- Register: nytwesthouston.org
Whether your child dreams of the spotlight or just wants to try something new in a supportive environment, NYT West Houston is offering a stage where they can grow, belong, and shine.
For more updates on youth arts and community events in Fort Bend County, stay connected with My Neighborhood News.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
