READY TO PERFORM — The Sycamore Youth Center will offer its newest program, musical theater, beginning in the fall. Enrollment is open to 25 students. Leading students in acting, singing and dance will be, from left, Diana Tygett, Sycamore dance director; Bobbyjon Bauman, Sycamore executive director; and Hannah Graham, musical theater director. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — Acting. It is an art form loved by people of all ages. Having a passion for acting can begin as a child. It can continue to flourish until the time when one has to decide it this will become their career or just a hobby.

But for now, children between the ages of 8 and 14 who have an interest in acting can enroll in a special program being offered this fall.

The Sycamore Youth Center has announced the launch of its new program, Musical Theater for Young Performers. Offered free of charge to area students falling in the age range, the class include training in acting, singing and dance. The culmination of these skills will be showcased in a performance for audience members in November.

Professional director Hannah Graham and choreographer Diana Tygett will lead this new opportunity for local youths. Graham, a seasoned theater director and educator working professionally in the performing arts since 2007, has a bachelor of arts in vocal performance and an MFA in acting. Her extensive resume includes having performed with the Governor’s Palace Theater, the Virginia Stage Co., Mill Mountain Theater, Tidewater Stage and the Berkshire Theater Festival.

“I am so excited to join the Sycamore Youth Center and work with young performers in Steubenville,” Graham stated. “Musical theater is such a powerful tool for building confidence, creativity and teamwork — and I can’t wait to get started.”

Joining Graham in this endeavor will be Sycamore dance instructor Diana Tygett, who will choreograph the production.

“For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a deep appreciation for musical theater,” Tygett commented. “I am grateful for the opportunity to choreograph and work alongside Hannah, who is so talented and passionate. I’m excited to see the unique gifts and talents these children bring to the program.”

Sycamore Executive Director Bobbyjon Bauman shared his enthusiasm for what the program will bring to the local arts scene.

“We’re absolutely thrilled to have two incredibly-gifted educators like Hannah and Diana pouring their hearts into our students,” Bauman said. “This program will awaken creativity and help kids discover the unique gifts God has placed within them through music, theater and dance.”

Classes will begin during the week of Sept. 22 and continue through the end of November. Enrollment is limited to 25 students, Bauman noted. Online sign-ups will be made available soon through the Sycamore website, sycamorecenter.com and its Facebook page.

The Musical Theater for Young Performers program is part of Sycamore’s growing roster of free enrichment opportunities designed to uplift and empower students across the Ohio Valley.