CYT was founded in 1981 in San Diego, California by Paul and Sheryl Russell, who also founded Christian COmmunity Theater (CCT) for actors of all ages. Since 1981, CYT has grown to be the nation’s largest children’s theater organization with programs in thirteen states. Every session, more than 12,000 children participate in classes, and over 100,000 community members attend their performances. 

Becuase CYT does not own facilities, the organization rents space in the local community, utilizing classrooms and stages in churches, schools and local theaters. CYT is not affiliated with a particular church body, and people of all faiths are welcome.

CYT stands in the forefront in its committment to the highest ethical, moral, technical and artistic standards of excellence. Instructors are professionals, qualified in teaching and/or performing, who must understand our mission statement, values, objectives and goals. All CYT staff strive to be excellent role models.