About CYT Classes


Spring class registration opens February 1st at 1:00pm. Classes are posted below for viewing now!~



Classes will be held at the CYT Performing Arts Center- 5805 Mark Dabling Blvd, Colorado Springs 80919
Our regular spring session classes are $250 for a nine-week session consisting of a two hour class each week and conclude with an end of session Showcase.
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Enrolled students, ages 8 –18, have the opportunity to audition for a CYT play or Broadway-style musical! Younger students may serve as ushers at CYT shows, and students ages 13 and up may work on a backstage crew.  Our spring productions are Anne of Green Gables (play) and Shrek the Musical. Find out more information on our shows page.

We are also offering a spring CYT Lite show, which is Lion King Kids.

Students sign up for the Lite Show as a class. Rehearsals take place during class plus a few additional rehearsals and two public performances. Students who choose the Lite show are not eligible to audition for a fall main stage show. The Lite show has a production fee in addition to the class tuition.

Scholarships may be available.  Please contact kyla@cytcoloradosprings.org for more information.

CLASS TIMES- there are 4 different class times.
Monday 1:00-3:00
Monday 6:00-8:00
Tuesday 4:30-6:30
Tuesday 6:30-8:30

SPRING CLASS DATES
Monday Classes:

March 9, 16, 30 (no class March 23)
April 6, 13, 20, 27
May 4, 11 (Showcase)

Tuesday Classes:
March 10, 16, 31 (no class March 24)
April 7, 14, 21, 28
May 5, 12 (Showcase)


CYT Colorado Springs offers classes over the course of three sessions during the school year: Fall, Winter, and Spring. Weekly classes last for two hours and run for nine weeks. A variety of classes are offered in drama, voice, dance, and specialty classes that vary per session. Most of the classes are small to ensure personal attention and growth. At the end of a CYT session, students will come away with improved skills in the area of emphasis. During the last week of class, a high-energy showcase is presented by each class to demonstrate to other students, family, and friends what they have learned.

Refund Policy
No refunds of any kind within two weeks of the first day of class. Prior to 2 weeks a $25.00 cancellation fee per class is applied to refunds. Refunds are returned to the original form of payment. Camp/class changes are subject to availability. Tuition must be paid in full in order to register online for class.



STUDENT ASSISTANTS:
If you are interested in applying to be a student assistant, please fill out the application below. You must be at least 15 years old and have participated in at least one session of CYT.

Current Classes:

Class: Age: Chapter: Location: Day: Time: Start: End:
APEX Dance (Team Members Only) 13-18 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Tue 6:30pm - 8:30pm Mar 10 May 19
APEX Improv (Team Members Only) 13-18 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Mon 6:00pm - 8:00pm Mar 09 May 18
APEX Voice (Team Members Only) 13-18 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Mon 6:00pm - 8:00pm Mar 09 May 18
Monday 1:00-3:00 Poms Power: Sharp, Strong & Synchronized (ages 8-13) 8-13 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Mon 1:00pm - 3:00pm Mar 09 May 18
Monday 1:00-3:00, Teen Choreography Lab: From Inspiration to Stage (ages 13-18) 13-18 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Mon 1:00pm - 3:00pm Mar 09 May 18
Monday 1:00-3:00- Musical Theater (ages 11-14) 11-14 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Mon 1:00pm - 3:00pm Mar 09 May 18
Monday 6:00-8:00, Beginning Improv (ages 11-16) 11-18 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Mon 6:00pm - 8:00pm Mar 09 May 18
Monday 6:00-8:00, CYT Lite Show: Lion King Kids! (ages 8-13) 8-13 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Mon 6:00pm - 8:00pm Mar 09 May 18
Monday 6:00-8:00, Our Gang: 101 Dalmatians (ages 5-7) 5-7 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Mon 6:00pm - 8:00pm Mar 09 May 18
Tuesday 4:30-6:30, Kids Dance- Musical Theater Dance Styles (ages 8-12) 8-12 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Tue 4:30pm - 6:30pm Mar 10 May 19
Tuesday 4:30-6:30, Musical Theater: Magic Kingdom (ages 8-12) 8-12 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Tue 4:30pm - 6:30pm Mar 10 May 19
Tuesday 4:30-6:30, Our Gang: 101 Dalmatians (ages 5-7) 5-7 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Tue 4:30pm - 6:30pm Mar 10 May 19
Tuesday 4:30-6:30, Teen Hip Hop (ages 13-18) 13-18 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Tue 4:30pm - 6:30pm Mar 10 May 19
Tuesday 6:30-8:30, Kids Voice-Sing the Story: Storytelling Through Song (Age 8-12) 8-12 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Tue 6:30pm - 8:30pm Mar 10 May 19
Tuesday 6:30-8:30, Musical Theater: Comedy Club! (ages 11-14) 11-14 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Tue 6:30pm - 8:30pm Mar 10 May 19
Tuesday 6:30-8:30, Teen Acting: Acting in Faith (ages 13-18) 13-18 Colorado Springs
(Spring 2026)
CYT Performing Arts Center Tue 6:30pm - 8:30pm Mar 10 May 19

How To Register


Set up a Family Account before you register for classes

  1. Click on the "person" icon at top right corner of our website (to right of "DONATE" on any page).
  2. Click on "NEW ACCOUNT" in the pop up window.
  3. Fill out the information required, with the parent's info first.
  4. To add a child to the account, click on the +Family Member button.

If you already have a Family Account, then (while logged in) follow these steps:
  1. Register for Classes- Go to the "Classes" page
  2. First select your "Student's Age"
  3. Click on the Class Name of your choice
  4. Click on the "Register Now" button
  5. Select the family member that will be in the class

Waitlist

If the class you are interested in is full, please register for your second choice class, then click on the waitlist button to be added to the waitlist.  Spaces often open up, and we will add students to classes as we can.  We always make an effort to get everyone into classes, but we can't always get everyone into their first choice class.

Class Policies


Refund Policy
No refunds of any kind within two weeks of the first day of class. Prior to 2 weeks a $25.00 cancellation fee per class is applied to refunds. Refunds are returned to the original form of payment. Camp/class changes are subject to availability. Tuition must be paid in full in order to register online for class.


Inclement Weather
In the event of inclement weather and/or poor road conditions, classes/rehearsals may be canceled for the safety of our students. Cancellations due to weather will be posted on our website: cytcoloradosprings.org Many times the weather may be dangerous in the mornings, but by class/rehearsal time, road conditions are fine. A decision will be made by 3pm regarding any cancellation of evening activities. If class/rehearsal is canceled for any reason, an email will be sent to all participants. Updates can also be found on CYT’s website: www.coloradosprings.org, as well as on our Facebook and Instagram pages. 
PLEASE NOTE: CYT Colorado Springs does not credit, refund, or pro-rate tuition for classes canceled due to inclement weather.


Registration Information
Classes and teachers are subject to change. A class must have at least 8 students registered, or it may be cancelled. If a class fills, waiting lists will be kept and students enrolled in the order that a registration was received if an opening becomes available. 

Attendance Policy
If your student will be missing class please email kyla@cytcoloradosprings.org or call or text 619 964-2785. If your child is not feeling well, please keep them home. Absences for illness will not count against students. There will not be refunds for missed classes.  

Auditioning for a Musical Production/Play
Students who are ages 8-18 and enrolled in a class during the current session are eligible to audition for the production in that session. Depending on the needs of the show, all who audition may not be cast in the production.

PLEASE NOTE: Students who are cast in a production are required to attend their CYT classes for the entire session including the end of session Showcase. All communication regarding absences must be done by contacting kyla@cytcoloradosprings.org Absences for illness will not count against students.


 

Current Teachers:

Amelia Kirk

Amelia Kirk was born and raised in Colorado. She started performing in the Douglas County Children's Chorus, and ended up performing all over the world in choirs and bands. She has also performed in many musicals and operas, which instilled in her a love for theater. Amelia is currently a K-12 music/theater teacher at Home School Academy in District 20. She directs a High School Musical Theater Program there and the students are performing Willy Wonka in the spring. Before moving to Colorado Springs she taught choir at Northglenn High School and had a voice and piano lesson studio. Amelia loves seeing children learn and develop new skills and is excited to join CYT!


Andrea De Los Santos

Andrea holds a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre from the University of Arizona and spent five years working with Stories That Soar! in Tucson, AZ, transforming children's original stories into live theatre. Her performance experience includes theatre, film and several local ad appearances. Andrea currently serves as the worship leader at Springs Journey Church, where she joyfully blends music, creativity, and leadership each week. She's thrilled to return to the theatre community and to hop back into the theatre scene with CYT, inspiring young artists through creativity, confidence, and a love of performance.


Anna Mesward

Hello friends! I started with CYT when I was 9 years old in San Diego. Since then it has become a second home to me here in Colorado Springs! As a student in San Diego I participated in 20 shows, attended and worked for numerous CYT summer camps, and was a part of two improv teams that competed at the CYT nathional improvathon at CYT Expo! As a teacher in CYT I have taught classes, summer camps, and co-choreographed for CYT COS's first show ever You're a Good Man Charlie Brown, as well as The Little Mermaid, then directed/choreographed Lion King Jr and High School Musical! When I'm not at CYT, I'm a nurse at St. Francis Hospital who also loves paddle boarding and being outside! I feel so lucky to get to be a part of CYT here in the Springs and watching the CYT family grow.


Annie Sutton

“I live in a musical!” is how Annie describes life as a homeschooling mom to constantly singing, dancing, and theatrical daughters. After witnessing firsthand how the performing arts foster confidence, creativity, and social development, Annie and her husband Matt are grateful for CYT and the positive impact it has had on their family. Annie brings extensive experience working with children in a variety of roles, including parent and foster parent, elementary school teacher, Kids Ministry Director, church nursery and preschool volunteer, camp counselor, and homeschool co-op teacher. She considers teaching with CYT both a joy and a calling, and she is passionate about nurturing each child’s God-given gifts. Their family has been involved with CYT since 2020. Annie has served as a CYT teacher, camp counselor, and show coordinator for numerous classes and productions. Annie looks forward to investing in your child this session—helping them grow in confidence, develop their talents, and shine for Jesus both on and off the stage.


Becca Shoemaker

Born and raised in the Roaring Fork Valley of Colorado, Becca Shoemaker has been immersed in dance and musical theatre since the age of two. Throughout her formative years, she trained at various dance studios in the valley, honing her skills in competitive poms, competitive dance, and musical theatre. Her passion for movement and performance flourished throughout middle and high school, paving the way for her collegiate dance journey. In the fall of 2015, Becca began her studies at the University of Wyoming (UW), where she pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance Performance. During her time at UW, she had the privilege of participating in Pablo Francisco Ruvalcaba’s reconstruction of excerpts from José Limón’s The Winged in the spring of 2016. This powerful work was later selected for performance at the National American Collegiate Dance Association Festival at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. In 2017, Becca broadened her artistic horizons by studying abroad in London, England, where she refined her technique at Pineapple Dance Studios, The Place, and Danceworks Studio. During this time, she had the opportunity to train under esteemed artists such as David Blake, Stephen Pelton, and Troy Powell of Ailey II. Following her semester abroad, she performed professionally at the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue, sharing the stage with her talented mother. Becca’s final years at UW were filled with remarkable performance opportunities, as well as the chance to work with distinguished guest artists, including Charmaine Hunter, Keith and Kelly Saunders, Darrell Grand Moultrie, and Tai Jimenez. She graduated in December of 2018, ready to embark on her professional journey as a dancer and educator. Since earning her degree, Becca has dedicated herself to dance instruction, teaching at numerous studios in Seattle, WA, and the Denver Metro Area. In addition to her dance expertise, she holds certifications in Personal Training and Nutrition Coaching, allowing her to guide dancers toward holistic strength and wellness. Becca’s choreographic works have been recognized at the regional and national level, earning numerous Judges’ Choice Awards, “Most Entertaining” titles, Best Costume accolades, and Top Overall Placements. Her dynamic and theatrical approach to movement consistently captivates both audiences and adjudicators, reflecting her commitment to artistry and excellence. She remains dedicated to fostering a love of dance in her students while continuing to grow as an artist, educator, and mentor in the dance community.


Brenton Newell

Brenton is thrilled to be teaching at CYT, where he and five of his six siblings first started in musical theater, also… where he and his wife Ashley met! First as a student then teaching and directing in CYT Chicago, Brenton moved to Colorado in 2024 and could not wait to get plugged in with CYT Colorado Springs. Brenton graduated from Wheaton College in 2021 with his bachelor’s degree in Media Communication with a minor in music. He currently works as a stewardship advisor and fund manager at Harvest Investment Services, but his passion for improv and theater has never wavered. From his first CYT improv class at age 10 to performing at Improvapalooza with CYT Chicago DuPage, improv has been a constant thread in his life. Brenton performs locally with Colorado Springs’ Oxymorons Comedy, where he shares the joy of the Lord through improvisational comedy. What excites him most about teaching improv is its unique ability to develop theatrical skills that can't be exercised through scripted performances—skills like spontaneity, active listening, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. Improv is accessible, fun, and creative, making it an ideal environment for performers to discover and develop their unique strengths. Every improv player brings totally different gifts to the stage, and Brenton is eager to coach and encourage those individual strengths in the classroom. Students can expect an enthusiastic, supportive environment where taking creative risks is celebrated and every voice matters. “….The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Neh. 8:10b


Gabby Zietlow

Gabby Zietlow is an accomplished and passionate teaching artist with over 13 years of experience guiding young performers in dance, musical theatre, and stage performance. With a strong foundation in ballet, pointe, acting, voice, and movement, Gabby creates a high-energy, supportive environment where students develop confidence, creativity, and stage presence. She believes every student has a unique story to tell and works to nurture their individual talents, encouraging artistic risk-taking and authentic self-expression. Gabby studied both Dance and Nursing in college, which gives her a uniquely holistic approach to her teaching. She integrates her nursing knowledge to promote student well-being through injury prevention, nutrition, and stress management, fostering resilient and healthy artists both on and off stage. Her evidence-based strategies help students build physical strength and mental resilience, teaching them how to listen to their bodies and maintain balance throughout their artistic journey. With professional performance experience at Walt Disney World, Gabby gained firsthand insight into the demands and high standards of elite entertainment. She also has directing experience, which complements her teaching by enriching her understanding of stagecraft and performer development. Gabby has taught and coached in studios and educational programs across Colorado, Philadelphia, and Orlando, cultivating safe and inspiring spaces where students of all levels can flourish. Gabby’s teaching style blends rigorous technical training with imaginative expression and personalized coaching. She offers comprehensive instruction in acting, voice, dance technique, and musical theatre skills, while emphasizing creativity, storytelling, and emotional connection. Her approach empowers every student to build a strong foundation, find their unique voice, and shine with confidence on stage and beyond. Beyond technique, Gabby is deeply committed to mentoring students as whole individuals—encouraging growth in self-confidence, discipline, teamwork, and resilience. She believes the performing arts offer powerful tools for personal development and strives to inspire her students to carry those lessons into every aspect of their lives. When she’s not helping students chase their dreams on stage, Gabby works as a nurse—cheering people on toward health and healing in every space she steps into.


Julie Maniscalchi

Julie Maniscalchi has been performing professionally for over 30 years throughout the Roaring Fork Valley and beyond. Her extensive theatre credits include long-running performances with the Glenwood Vaudeville Revue and the historic Crystal Palace in Aspen, where she entertained audiences with music, comedy, and political satire for over 25 years combined. Julie has also appeared with Theatre Aspen, Snowmass Repertory, Aspen Community Theatre, Defiance Theatre, and the Colorado Springs Theatre Company, performing in productions such as A Chorus Line, The Fantasticks, South Pacific, 1776, and Seussical the Musical. As a vocalist, Julie has performed backup for Tony Award-nominated actress Beth Malone in Coming Home: NYE Show and with “A Band Called Alexis,” creating harmonies and contributing percussion. She is also an independent recording artist, with her original song “You’re in My Life Now” available on Apple Music. Beyond the stage, Julie has directed and choreographed numerous student productions in the Aspen area and enjoys teaching beginner piano, voice, and acting. A multi-talented artist, she also sews, paints, and designs costumes and props. Julie is thrilled to be performing with Little Funky Theatre and is equally excited to be working with CYT.


Keri Denison

Keri Denison started singing when she learned to talk. She graduated from Oral Roberts University with a degree in Music, specifically Worship Arts. She has worked as a vocal director and worship leader for multiple churches around the nation. She has been honored to work with CYT as a Director and Music Director for multiple shows, a Performing Arts teacher at a charter school, and currently owns her own music education company called “Bears Music Academy”.  She is married to an amazing man and has 3 wonderful children who all share her love of music!  


Matthew Newell

Matthew is thrilled to be part of the CYT Colorado Springs community, collaborating with an incredible group of artists and exceptionally talented students. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Dance and Psychology from Colorado Christian University. Originally from Chicago, Matthew began his dance training there before relocating to Colorado in 2020. He is currently a company member with Messengerz Dance Co., a Denver-based Christian contemporary dance company directed by Greta Sugai. As both a performer and choreographer, Matthew continues to explore new ways of connecting movement, emotion, and storytelling through contemporary dance. He also teaches at Castle Rock Dance Academy and Cultivate Dance Performing Arts Academy. Beyond his work with CYT Colorado Springs, Matthew has enjoyed teaching with Starstruck Academy of Dance, Broadway to Africa (in partnership with Young Life), CYT Chicago, Audience of One Youth Theatre, Rise Christian Performing Arts, and Colorado Christian University. In addition to teaching, Matthew enjoys performing. Some of his favorite stage credits include SpongeBob  (SpongeBob the Musical), Racetrack (Newsies), Turk (Tarzan), Young Scrooge (Christmas Carol), Jack (Into the Woods), Reuben (Joseph), Lumière (Beauty and the Beast), Nutcracker (Nutcracker), Telly (Godspell), Daryl (Bright Star), Captain Hook (Peter Pan), and Jesse (Tuck Everlasting). As a CYT alumnus, Matthew is deeply grateful to be part of the CYT community and especially cherishes the opportunity to work in a discipleship oriented organization such as CYT.


Reagan Smalley

My name is Reagan Smalley and I am so excited to be teaching at CYT! This organization is where I first developed my passion for theatre and I am so excited to instill that passion in the next generation of CYT students. I have a bachelors degree in Theatre from Biola University in Los Angeles California. Additionally, at my church I lead children ages 2-13 in small groups as well as worship for over five years. My prayer is that I may help develop your child's passion for theatre as well as their relationship with Jesus Christ. I believe that our God is a creative God and through the power of theatre we can bring honor and glory to His name.


Sarah Carder

Sarah is a CYT alumni who grew up in San Diego participating in CYT productions, camps, and improv teams. She has choreographed five shows for CYT Colorado Springs, co-directed two, and has been involved in camps and improv over the summer as well. She is passionate about the community that CYT strives to create and is grateful to be a part of it!


SarahRose Nave

SarahRose Nave was born and raised in Colorado Springs and followed her two older sisters into dance at 3 years old. She danced throughout her childhood and then began creating choreography and teaching in 2017, assisting in multiple classical dance and musical theater productions. In 2019 and 2020, she had the opportunity to travel the US with The Thorn, first as a dancer, then as costume manager. SarahRose continues to work in various creative fields and is honored to re-enter the performing world to help performers thrive in excellence with CYT!


Curriculum

CYT offers a wide variety of classes, and they all enable students to gain valuable theater arts training, develop confidence, and make friends!

There are currently over 50 different curriculum materials available in a variety of musical theater areas. Please note these classes vary per session. Check the Classes page to see what’s available now!
 

Teachers

A CYT Teacher’s mission is to train and instruct students in such a way as to promote the development of character, self-esteem, and confidence. CYT teachers are qualified and experienced in the area in which they teach. They have been trained in the CYT methods of instruction and agree with the CYT values and outcome goals.  All CYT teachers have been background checked and adhere to our CYT Mission and Values. Our teachers truly care about their students and provide a constructive and fun environment for them to learn.

Showcase

Parents, friends, and relatives are invited to attend CYT's Showcase performance on the last day / evening of classes, free of charge! Showcase is the grand finale of each session of classes, at which every class makes a 5-10 minute presentation of something they have learned and rehearsed during the session. Don't miss the action!