Who We Are

Making a difference by helping EVERY kid gain confidence, foster creativity, and develop mutual trust and respect through the arts

Our Story

United Youth Theatre (UYT) began in 2016 with a vision to empower Michiana youth through the arts — not just as performers, but as individuals equipped with lifelong skills. Founders Clare Costello and Drake Shrader saw theatre as a powerful tool to build confidence, leadership, teamwork, and resilience.

More than a stage, UYT is a nurturing environment where kids develop real-world skills essential for any path they choose. Today, UYT remains Michiana’s premier youth theatre because of our commitment to holistic development through the arts. As one student put it, “We aren’t just telling stories; we’re changing lives.”

Our Values

At United Youth Theatre, our values shape everything we do from the way we welcome new students to the way we support them on and off the stage.

We value:

  • Community

  • Teamwork

  • Diversity

  • Gratitude

  • Creativity

  • Trust

  • Respect

 

IMPACT

    • Served approximately 2,000 young people across Michiana since 2016.

    • Provide year-round opportunities through productions, classes, and camps.

    • Offer leadership roles in design, production, management, and live music.

    • Prepare students for success both on stage and beyond.

  • Produced 30+ full-scale shows since 2016, spanning plays, musicals, and original works.

    • Provided arts education to hundreds of students through partnerships with organizations like The Music Village, Robinson Community Learning Center, and the Boys & Girls Club, creating greater access to the performing arts for all youth.

 
“Theater has been an incredible outlet for me during these past five years. I’ve always had an outgoing and bubbly personality and growing up it was challenging to find my place. Through UYT I have developed great leadership skills, made incredible friends, and finally found that place I so desperately needed. There is no discrimination or exclusion when it comes to UYT. All are welcomeand most importantly, all are able to show up authentically”
— UYT Participant