The Show Must Go On! - PJ Pedroni Helps Save Tacoma Youth Theatre From Closure
"COVID hit the arts perhaps harder than any other industry out there." - PJ Pedroni explains why, when Tacoma Youth Theatre reached out for financial support after a four year pandemic pause, he took matters into his own hands to provide this valuable community resource with the aid that they needed.
Post-Pandemic
In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the threat of closure was all too real for many creative businesses that faced an unprecedented disruption to revenue. Such was the case for the Tacoma Youth Theatre based in Tacoma, Washington. For PJ especially, this was a devastating announcement as both of his children, Stella and Sam, had been involved in multiple productions at the theatre - with Sam then going on to pursue further acting endeavours all thanks to his beginning at TYT.
-PJ shares some moments of his son's performances during his time at TYT.
Founded in 2012, the theatre offers a variety of programs ranging from after school camps to weekend performances. The true merit of TYT however is its 'hands on' approach to learning, with students often putting on a 45-60 minute show alongside their studying - resulting in performances complete with set design, props, lighting, sound and costumes. Ultimately, the theatre serves as a treasured source of enrichment for young aspiring actors, teaching them core skills like teamwork, self-confidence, responsibility, creativity, communication and basic human empathy.
Perhaps most importantly, TYT operates on a 'pay what you can' basis and never turns individuals who wish to join away, ensuring all children have the opportunity to engage in their creative passion.
Rallying Support
In a heartwarming display of dedication and community spirit, PJ sprang to action and began reaching out to local corporations and individuals, using his vast network of contacts cultivated after an impressive 30 years as an active member of the South Sound business community to ask for their support and donations in aid of Tacoma Youth Theatre.
The culminating outpour of donations was truly inspiring, and PJ would like to give special thanks to three local companies that were instrumental in helping him achieve the funds he needed to revitalise the theatre back to a sustainable level:
In addition, a huge thank you to local non-profit, Brave and Unbroken is in order. Without their role as fiscal sponsor for TYT, the theatre simply wouldn't have been able to take in the charitable contributions from the local area.
Finally, PJ would like to thank his great friend and Tacoma community professional, Mike Medrzycki for all of his efforts towards the campaign as well. "Mike is always one to count on for the community..." exclaims PJ, "especially when it comes to kids, a heart of gold!".
Performing a Miracle
Thanks to PJ and his selfless donors, a momentous amount of $10,000 was raised. This substantial feat not only ensures the theatre's survival but also reaffirms the power of individuals to make a meaningful difference in their communities. Thanks to their passion and hard work, the curtains will stay up, and countless young performers will continue to have a stage to shine on.
On behalf of everyone at LED Studio, we want to personally congratulate PJ on his outstanding achievement. We couldn't be happier to have such a generous, proactive character on the team!