Episode Summary:
Paul Ward speaks with Marta Dewey, founder of the Performance Theater for Young Artists (PTYA), a Ventura County-based nonprofit that has nurtured thousands of kids through year-round theater productions since 1999. From shy first-timers to confident leads, Marta shares how theater builds confidence, community, and creativity in youth aged 6 to 19. Discover how this beloved local program blends arts education with life skills — all while putting on fantastic musicals like Matilda and Shrek.
00:00 – Introduction
Paul welcomes Marta Dewey and sets the stage for her inspiring story.
00:37 – How PTYA Began
Marta shares how a one-time school musical grew into a year-round youth theater company.
01:46 – A Year-Round Program for All Ages
How the company works: kids audition per production; many grow with the program for years.
02:55 – Singing, Acting, Dance, and Tech Theater
PTYA develops young talent across performance and behind-the-scenes skills.
03:31 – Recent Production: Matilda the Musical
Over 40 students from ages 7 to 18 performed in the most recent production.
04:02 – How Students Find Their Passion
Some join for fun, others for the spotlight — all build confidence and skills.
05:06 – Rehearsal Schedules & Community Feel
10 hours per week, tech week before shows, and a close-knit cast culture.
06:25 – Costumes & Set Design
Parents and students pitch in to bring each show to life.
07:36 – PTYA Alumni Success Stories
One student went on to become an opera singer performing internationally.
09:00 – Audience & Performance Space
Typical audience size and how they manage sold-out shows with flexible seating.
09:41 – Upcoming Production: Shrek the Musical
Details on the next production and how rehearsals are ramping up.
10:22 – Licensing, Scripts & Choreography
How PTYA acquires materials and relies on teen choreographers for fresh ideas.
11:20 – Growth Stories: From Shy to Spotlight
Powerful examples of personal growth through theater.
13:17 – Funding a Nonprofit Theater Program
How PTYA stays afloat: fundraising, tuition, ticket sales, grants, and scholarships.
14:29 – Volunteer-Driven Success
Parents, alumni, and teens fuel the program with their time and passion.
15:24 – Performance Frequency & Summer Camp
Four to five shows per year, plus a two-week summer camp with a final performance.
16:49 – The Future of PTYA
Marta discusses the program’s continued growth and long-standing community roots.
17:17 – Closing & Gratitude
Paul thanks Marta for her decades of dedication and impact.
đź”— Learn More About PTYA:Â
ptya.org
3451 Foothill Rd
Ventura, CA 93003
p. (805) 302-6441
e. ptyaplays@gmail.com
👉Contact Paul Ward:
homeandranch.com
p. 805-479-5004
e. paul@homeandranchteam.com
📢 Thank You to Our Sponsor:
Opus Escrow — making this episode possible.
#YouthTheater #PTYA #VenturaCounty #OnTheRoadWithPaulWard #PerformingArts #MusicalTheater #ShrekTheMusical #MatildaTheMusical
