Classes

CYT offers three sessions of classes in four different locations during the school year: fall, winter, and spring. Weekly classes last for two hours and run for nine consecutive weeks. A variety of classes are offered in drama, voice, dance, and specialty classes that vary every session. Most of our 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, either a high-energy showcase or a parent observation night is presented by each class to demonstrate to other students, family, and friends what they have learned.
 
Education Policies

Classes (Lafayette, Vermilion, Central and Acadia)

CYT classes are offered each session for students ages 4 to 18. Lafayette classes have two different class time slots on Tuesday nights, and they are called Act 1 and Act 2. Act 1 classes meet from 4:30-6:30 and Act 2 classes meet from 6:15-8:15. CYT Vermilion and CYT Central classes meet on Monday nights, and CYT Acadia classes meet on Thursday nights. Students ages 8 to 18, who are enrolled in our classes, also have the chance to audition for one of our three MainStage shows each session. Auditioning for a MainStage show includes extra rehearsal time commitment and a separate production fee. 

*NOTE If the class your child wants to take is full, please complete the form below. We have waiting lists and can potentially create a new class if there are students who are interested. 
CYT Class Registration Waiting List

Trimester Classes

Trimester Classes serve as the entry point for students interested in the performing arts. Held in the Fall, Winter, and Spring, these 9 week class sessions offer structured instruction in various aspects of theater, providing a strong foundation. Each session culminates in a high-energy showcase or parent observation night to demonstrate the skills acquired to family, friends, and fellow students.

For those interested in participating in a MainStage musical, enrollment in a class within the corresponding session (Fall, Winter, Spring) is required. With smaller class sizes and shorter commitments compared to our Repertory Studio classes, Trimester Classes offer a lower-pressure environment, perfect for those seeking to explore their artistic talents. 

The Repertory Studio

Our Repertory Studio classes offer an advanced training experience tailored to meet the needs of serious performers. Scheduled from August to May, these classes provide a structured environment for students seeking to elevate their skills, expand their repertoire, and prepare for a future career in the arts.

Students enroll in a Repertory Studio class for the entire season, and participation in a Repertory Studio class meets the class requirement for involvement in a CYT MainStage production for the entire season. 
The Repertory Studio Audition Info

Opening Act

In this reimagined performance class, young performers ages 4-7 will sing, dance, and act their way through the magical world of musical theater. Through playful warm-ups, creative movement, simple choreography, and storytelling games, students will build confidence, coordination, and stage presence. Each session, we explore songs and scenes from a favorite kid-friendly musical, all while encouraging teamwork and self-expression. The session culminates in a mini performance for family and friends.
Friendship Force - Spring 2026

Current Classes:

Class: Age: Chapter: Location: Day: Time: Start: End:
Advanced Acting (Mondays - Ages 13-18) - Vermilion 13-18 Vermilion
(Spring 2026)		 Our Saviors Church, Abbeville Campus Mon 6:00pm - 8:00pm Feb 23 May 04
Advanced Dance (Mondays - Ages 13-18) - Vermilion 13-18 Vermilion
(Spring 2026)		 Our Saviors Church, Abbeville Campus Mon 6:00pm - 8:00pm Feb 23 May 04
Advanced Drama: Selections from "Fire Exit" by Stacie Lents (Tuesdays Act 2 - Ages 13-18) - Lafayette 14-18 Lafayette
(Spring 2026)		 CYT Lafayette Hub Tue 6:15pm - 8:15pm Feb 24 Apr 28
All That Jazz Dance (Mondays - Ages 8-12) - Vermilion 8-12 Vermilion
(Spring 2026)		 Our Saviors Church, Abbeville Campus Mon 6:00pm - 8:00pm Feb 23 May 04
Art & Acting: In My Villain Era (Tuesdays Act 1 - Ages 8-12) - Lafayette 8-12 Lafayette
(Spring 2026)		 CYT Lafayette Hub Tue 4:30pm - 6:30pm Feb 24 Apr 28
Broadway Babies - Thursdays - CYT Acadia 4-7 Acadia
(Spring 2026)		 St Michael's Church Thu 5:30pm - 7:30pm Feb 19 Apr 30
Broadway Bound (Mondays - Ages 8-12) - Vermilion 8-12 Vermilion
(Spring 2026)		 Our Saviors Church, Abbeville Campus Mon 6:00pm - 8:00pm Feb 23 May 04
Comedy and Improv (Tuesdays Act 2 - Ages 13-18) - Lafayette 13-18 Lafayette
(Spring 2026)		 CYT Lafayette Hub Tue 6:15pm - 8:15pm Feb 24 Apr 28
Costume Crafting and Sewing (Mondays - Ages 10-18) - Vermilion 10-18 Vermilion
(Spring 2026)		 Our Saviors Church, Abbeville Campus Mon 6:00pm - 8:00pm Feb 23 May 04
Cue to Cue: Lighting Design (Tuesdays Act 2 - Ages 15-18) - Lafayette 15-18 Lafayette
(Spring 2026)		 CYT Lafayette Hub Tue 6:15pm - 8:15pm Feb 24 Apr 28
CYT@School at Vermilion Charter Academy Spring 2026 - Advanced Musical Theater Grd 3
Grd 4
Grd 5
 Vermilion
(Spring 2026)		 Vermilion Charter Academy Tue 3:30pm - 5:00pm Feb 24 Apr 28
CYT@School at Vermilion Charter Academy Spring 2026 - Rotation Grd 3
Grd 4
Grd 5
 Vermilion
(Spring 2026)		 Vermilion Charter Academy Tue 3:30pm - 5:00pm Feb 24 Apr 28
D.R.E.A.M.S. Musical Theater (Wednesdays - Ages 13+) 13-79 Lafayette
(Spring 2026)		 CYT Lafayette Hub Wed 5:30pm - 7:00pm Feb 25 May 20
Dance: Dancing with the Stars (Tuesdays Act 2 - Ages 13-18) - Lafayette 13-18 Lafayette
(Spring 2026)		 CYT Lafayette Hub Tue 6:15pm - 8:15pm Feb 24 Apr 28
Dance: Glow Getters (Tuesdays Act 1 - Ages 8-12) - Lafayette 8-12 Lafayette
(Spring 2026)		 CYT Lafayette Hub Tue 4:30pm - 6:30pm Feb 24 Apr 28
Directing Class - Part 2 (Mondays - Ages 13-18) - Vermilion 13-18 Vermilion
(Spring 2026)		 Our Saviors Church, Abbeville Campus Mon 6:00pm - 8:00pm Feb 23 May 04
Intro to Musical Theater (Mondays - Ages 8-12) - Central 8-12 Lafayette Central
(Spring 2026)		 Northwood United Methodist Church Mon 5:30pm - 7:30pm Mar 02 May 04
Mini Musical Theater (Mondays - Ages 4-7) - Central 4-7 Lafayette Central
(Spring 2026)		 Northwood United Methodist Church Mon 5:30pm - 7:30pm Mar 02 May 04
Musical Theater (Mondays - Ages 6-7) - Vermilion 6-7 Vermilion
(Spring 2026)		 Our Saviors Church, Abbeville Campus Mon 6:00pm - 8:00pm Feb 23 May 04
Musical Theater for Kids - Thursdays - CYT Acadia 8-12 Acadia
(Spring 2026)		 St Michael's Church Thu 5:30pm - 7:30pm Feb 19 Apr 30
Musical Theater for Teens - Thursdays - CYT Acadia 13-18 Acadia
(Spring 2026)		 St Michael's Church Thu 5:30pm - 7:30pm Feb 19 Apr 30
Musical Theater: A Whole New Stage (Tuesdays Act 2 - Ages 8-12) - Lafayette 8-12 Lafayette
(Spring 2026)		 CYT Lafayette Hub Tue 6:15pm - 8:15pm Feb 24 Apr 28
Musical Theater: Sondheim (Tuesdays Act 2 - Ages 13-18) - Lafayette 13-18 Lafayette
(Spring 2026)		 CYT Lafayette Hub Tue 6:15pm - 8:15pm Feb 24 Apr 28
OPENING ACT: Friendship Force (Tuesdays Act 1 - Ages 4-7) - Lafayette 4-7 Lafayette
(Spring 2026)		 CYT Lafayette Hub Tue 4:30pm - 6:30pm Feb 24 Apr 28
The Performance Project — Acting Edition “From Page to Stage: Bringing a Play to Life” (Mondays - Ages 12-18) - Central 12-18 Lafayette Central
(Spring 2026)		 Northwood United Methodist Church Mon 5:30pm - 7:30pm Mar 02 May 04
Triple Threat (Mondays - Ages 8-12) - Vermilion 8-12 Vermilion
(Spring 2026)		 Our Saviors Church, Abbeville Campus Mon 6:00pm - 8:00pm Feb 23 May 04
Voice: K-pop (Tuesdays Act 1 - Ages 8-12) - Lafayette 8-12 Lafayette
(Spring 2026)		 CYT Lafayette Hub Tue 4:30pm - 6:30pm Feb 24 Apr 28

MainStage Shows

Our MainStage productions are the public entry point to our program, showcasing the talent and dedication of our students ages 8-18. With high-caliber productions that captivate performers and audiences alike, these shows cultivate a sense of camaraderie and accomplishment within our community.

Students must be enrolled in a trimester class for the current show session or a Repertory Studio class to audition for a MainStage show.
Find out more about our MainStage shows!

Teaching Artists

A CYT Teaching Artist’s mission is to train and instruct students in their area of expertise while helping develop character, self-esteem, and confidence. CYT teaching artists 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, goals and mission statement. All CYT teaching artists have been background checked and child safety trained.
Apply to Teach Here!

CYT’s Triple Threat

Each class will be infused with character developing, arts training for each student. Our goal is that every student leaves our classes feeling more confident in who they were created to be as well as their performing arts skills. CYT is recognized for excellence in theater arts training. Our uniqueness, however, goes beyond our programming, and instead lies in our dedication to CYT’s Character, Culture, and Craft. These three elements comprise CYT’s Triple Threat.

CYT Character

CYT believes in building character on and off the stage, and that character is rooted in CHRISTIAN values such as love, joy, peace, kindness, perseverance, and dedication. Every instruction is rooted in these values.

CYT Culture

CYT’s culture is one of inclusiveness. We welcome all and remain committed to providing a vibrant and fun atmosphere with our focus on YOUTH. With this commitment comes a promise of providing family-friendly productions that are appropriate for young audiences.

CYT Craft

CYT is committed to providing excellent training in our THEATER craft by staying informed of National VAPA (Visual and Performing Arts) standards. CYT hires qualified Teaching Artists and Artistic Teams who consistently elevate our students’ knowledge of theater arts.

Inquiring about financial assistance?

CYT’s mission is to allow every child the chance to experience the magic of the performing arts. If your student is in need of a scholarship, please apply below and contact tiffany@cytlafayette.org with any questions.
Apply here!

Have Questions?

Don't worry, we have answers! You can send an email to our Chapter Coordinator at tiffany@cytlafayette.org and we will get back to you promptly!
Classes FAQ

Current Teachers:

Adele Hebert

Adele Hebert is a proud alumna of CYT Lafayette, beginning her performing journey in both CYT and the local community theatre scene, where she first fell in love with the stage. She went on to earn her degree in Theatre with a concentration in Musical Theatre from Northwestern State University. After college, Adele toured nationally as a Tour Actor/Director with Missoula Children's Theatre. She has also performed at Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Silver Dollar City in Christmas and pop/rock variety productions. Her regional theatre credits include Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Paint Your Wagon, and The Ballad of Cat Ballou at the Jackson Hole Playhouse.

Alicia Pruitt

Hello! Here's a snapshot into who I am as a person, a professional, and an artist. First and foremost, I love God and would not be who I am today without Jesus Christ, my Savior. I am a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a Nationally Certified Pilates Instructor who spends her days teaching others how to understand the body and move well. Don't worry though, I am no stranger to education in the music arts. I have been singing practically since the day I was born and have had formal training in piano and music theory. The music and education genes run thick in my family and I'm following a long-standing line of examples. My personal experiences in music vary as a performer, worship leader, teacher, and director in both my church and community. I look forward to getting to know everyone and helping each of the students find their unique gifts that God has given them for His glory.

Amber Michel

I am a mom of eight with a passion for the arts. I’ve been involved in plays, productions, and dance my whole life. I attended Texas Bible Institute for two years and received a certification in ministry and leadership. There, I had the honor of leading the dance team and put on many dramas and productions. I was able to use these talents on the mission field as well! I have also taught dance and lead worship for many years. my greatest accomplishment is homeschooling my children, who are also all passionate for and involved in the arts. I am blessed for the opportunity to be a part of the CYT team, and I can’t wait to help kids and teenagers grow in their gifts and talents.

Aralyn Dickerson

Aralyn Dickerson is a CYT alum and is so excited to be teaching this session! She has taught and assisted many CYT classes and performed in multiple CYT and CCT shows! One of her greatest joys has been spending her summers at CYT camp! From being a counselor as a student to now directing the same summer camps, she is immensely grateful for all of the opportunities CYT has given her. Aralyn cannot wait to get to know her students and watch them grow their love for the arts!

Bethany Leonards

I am an artist with an avid love for theater from Rayne, Louisiana! I received a Master’s in Global Cultures from King’s College London and have worked in school settings as a teacher and applied behavior analyst both in Louisiana as well as California. I am proud to join the CYT team in Lafayette this fall!

Briahna Adendorff

Briahna is a graduate from Unitech Training Academy’s Massage Therapy program and has been a Massage Therapist for 3 years. She was in CYT for 5 years, H.Y.P.E. President during her senior year, and has participated in several CCT shows. Briahna is excited to have the opportunity to teach at CYT Vermillion for the first time!

Celia Theriot

Celia Theriot is a CYT alum who is super thrilled to be a CYT teacher! Along with being in over 20 CYT shows, she recently was the co-choreographer for CYT’s G2K Cinderella, the stage manager for Matilda, co-choreographer for High School Musical and choreographer for Mary Poppins. Celia is also a dance graduate of 15 years at Delarue Dance Centre! She loves sharing her love for dance and theater with this generation of kids, and can’t wait to see them grow in their love of theatre!

Ella Meche

Hi, my name is Ella Meche! I’m a sophomore at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, studying Secondary English Education with a minor in Theatre. I’ve loved storytelling and the arts since childhood, performing in church, school, and community productions. Outside of theatre, I enjoy reading, writing, and serving in my church’s children’s ministry. I’m excited to share my passion for education and the arts through this program.

Emily Roberts

Emily Roberts has been a proud member of the CYT community for over 10 years. Most recently, she served as the choreographer for CYT Lafayette’s Matilda & CYT Lafayette's Anastasia. With 13 years of dance training and performance experience, Emily has appeared in more than 20 productions across the Lafayette and Baton Rouge areas.

Hannah Kessler

Hannah has been a part of CYT for the past few years working behind the scenes on numerous productions as CYT Lafayette's Lighting Designer. With nine years of technical experience, her work spans theatrical performances, dance revues, concerts, and other live events. Hannah is also the Technical Coordinator at The Bayou Church, where she helps shape engaging, immersive events and services through lighting, audio, and visual design.

Jannah Gaspard

This is my fist session teaching with CYT, but I have 15 years of dance experience where I studied many different styles of dance such as Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, ect. I have choreographed multiple dances for Kaplan High's annual spring musicals, along with being head choreographer for Kaplan High's Theater Camp. I'm super excited to begin my CYT journey and share my craft with others.

Jolie Blanchard

My name is Jolie Blanchard. I'm a local dancer, choreographer and writer. I'm currently pursuing my BFA in Performing Arts, with a concentration in Dance, at the University of Louisiana here in Lafayette. I’ve performed various choreographic works under the direction of John A. McBride, Sarah Lass, Paige Barnett Kulbeth, and Molly Heller/HEARTLAND Collective. I make it my mission to engage with students authentically and compassionately, while still maintaining an emphasis on rigor and technicality. I find when young people feel supported and challenged, they have an opportunity to confidently develop their own artistic voices.

Joni Hebert

Joni Milliman Hebert was born and raised in Erath, Louisiana. She still lives in her hometown with her husband Scott, daughter (Knoah), and their morkie puppy (Kash). Her daughter Kelbi and twin grandbabies, Sutter John and Hudson Reed, are also close by. Joni has her Masters in Educational Leadership and is employed by the Vermilion Parish School Board as a Special Education Coordinator. Her involvement in CYT started 8 years ago as a volunteer when she registered her daughter for classes. Joni has been involved with theatre groups through her life in many different roles (Vermilion Players, Iberia Performing Arts League, Abbey Players, Cite de Arts, and CYT Vermilion). She is passionate about the arts and loves to see the growth in the students.

Joy Broussard

Mrs. Joy Broussard a native of Imperial PA, has lived in Louisiana for seventeen years. She has a Music Degree from Kentucky Christian University, and is currently teaching at Acadiana Christian School. Previously, she had been at Harvest Time Christian Academy for 16 years. She is a member of LMEA, ACDA, President of District III Sr. High Honor Choir activities, and the Fine Arts Cordinator for ACEL-Association of Christian Educators of Louisiana. She is the Area Coordinator for CYT Vermilion, and loves being a part of the CYT family

Kaedron Hall

Kaedron, a talented musician and dedicated educator, is originally from Atlanta, Georgia, and has called Lafayette home since 2015. He serves as the Lower and Middle School music and performing arts teacher at Ascension Episcopal School and also works as a private vocal coach, helping students refine their skills and develop their voices. Kaedron holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Morehouse College and a Master of Music in Conducting from Georgia State University. With a deep passion for music and education, he is thrilled to be part of the CYT family, inspiring young performers to reach their full potential!

Kailey Wilkerson

My name is Kailey Wilkerson, I graduated from Cosmetology Training Center as a licensed cosmetologist. I am so thrilled to have the opportunity to teach this class! I have been wanting to teach a class since the day I graduated from CYT! I did the talented program for about 5 years, and I did CYT for about 4 years! Some of the shows that I was a part of include The HunchBack of NotreDame, Peter Pan, The Wizard of Oz, Into the Woods, Newsies, Matilda and High school Musical! I’m excited to be a part of this organization! I can’t say thank you enough for giving me the chance to teach your kids to love the art of comedy and improv!

Krysten Theunissen

Raised in Crowley, LA, theatre has always been an outlet for me. I have 15 years of competitive dance experience as well as several years in productions as well as an acting coach. I am super excited to help bring my passions of theatre, dancing, and my faith together!

Lauren Keating

Lauren has been with CYT for 10 years and absolutely loves working with those broadway babies!! She has worked in early childhood education for 12 years and is a Kindergarten Teacher at Cecil Picard Elementary in Vermillion Parish. Lauren’s favorite part of teaching anything is watching kids’ faces light up when they learn something new or find a new passion. Over the years at CYT Lauren has stage managed and directed for many shows including Elf Jr., The Hunchback of Notre Dame, The Wizard of Oz, Hairspray, and Mulan Jr. She was also the Summer Camp Director for a few seasons. CYT holds a special place in her heart and she cannot wait to sing, dance, and act up with a new little friends this session.

Madlyn Zaunbrecher

I am a former classroom teacher who has been homeschooling for seventeen years. I love sewing and have vast experience with theater costumes. I have been teaching sewing my entire adult life, and that is one thing that I missed dearly when I left the classroom - I truly enjoy helping children develop a love for sewing! Watching them create something that they can see on stage for a production is truly rewarding (for them and for me)!

Maria Williams

Maria was born in Lafayette Louisiana, she has always had a love for the dramatics. She has been teaching for CYT since 2010 and has loved it more than anything else she has ever been a part of! Maria is a graduate of ULL with a bachelors degree in Spanish and Criminal justice. In 2017 she started a non profit to fight against human trafficking. She has been a music and vocal teacher since 2000. Currently she serves on staff at Pathway Church as the Music and Student director. Maria feels like it is a beautiful opportunity to work with children and watch them grow and develop in their skills.

Michelle Flott

I’m a homeschooling mom to 4 kids between the ages of 12 & 7. I’ve been a “CYT mom” for 8 years since my oldest started CYT classes in Lafayette at age 4. I have a bachelor's degree from UL Lafayette in Child & Family Studies and a Children's Ministry degree from Christ for the Nations in Dallas, TX. I'm the owner of Happy Little Trees Acadiana which offers art classes and parties for kids. This will be my 3rd session teaching the 4-7 year olds in Vermilion. I have so much fun with this age group and I'm looking forward to another great session!

NeeKee Hall

NeeKee Hall has been involved in theatre for over 16 years. She is the Assistant Division Head of Lower and Middle school at Ascension Episcopal School and also teaches private vocal and piano lessons. When not on the stage, in the classroom, or in the director's chair, you can find her gigging with Bandemic or playing music at local churches. NeeKee has performed in, directed, or music directed nearly 40 productions, and after many years of wishing her life was a musical, she can finally say it's true! NeeKee is beyond thrilled to be teaching for CYT this session!

Sierra Primeaux

I am an undergraduate student at UL Lafayette, majoring in Secondary English Education. Alongside an education background, I also have experience in theatre. I’ve performed in productions such as Steel Magnolias, The Wizard of Oz, The Little Mermaid, and Freaky Friday. I am passionate about helping children discover and develop their creative voice through theatre and ELA.

Vanessa Lomas

Vanessa is a Board Certified Music Therapist in Lafayette, Louisiana. She owns TheraCare Music Therapy LLC where she engages clients from infants to adults with physical, mental health, emotional, social, and academic needs in music based activities. She graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Music Therapy from William Carey University in Hattiesburg, Mississippi and a Masters Degree in Music Therapy from Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida. She serves as secretary on the board of directors for the Autism Society of Acadiana and on the Children's Church Leadership team at Pathway Church.