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hometown troupe to a major force in the arts thanks to the generosity of the Heard family. Their programs cover all age groups. They offer the Main Stage Series that is geared toward adults and the Cookie Company which offers programs for families and youth. They have a Theater Academy and a New Works Festival to encourage and stage the works of up and coming artists and performers.

Stars such as Nick Nolte and Steven Spielberg launched their careers here in Phoenix on the Main Stage at the Phoenix Theater. With 373 seats they offer an intimate venue to view such Broadway Classics as Crazy for You and The Full Monty as well as new works such as Almost Maine" and "Lucky Star".

The Cookie Company takes original scripts based on classical literature and brings then to 35,000 viewers annually. In 25 years they have produced over 75 productions. Their theater is located on the exact spot of the original theater founded by the Heard family in 1920.

Valley Youth Theater

525 North First Street

VYT is celebrating their 19th anniversary of offering wonderful opportunities to the youth of Phoenix to perform. Children aged 7-19 are involved in all aspects of the productions. They have their own theater on Copper Square and have been voted "The best place to become a future star". Among their alumnae are American Idol winner Jordan Sparks.

The Stray Cat Theater

1700 North 7th Ave

This is not your Mama's theater. This is edgy and off the beaten path. Contemporary drama that deals with today's hottest issues. To quote them , they aim to "provoke, challenge and jolt their audience out of conventional responses."

The 2008/2009 season will include An Impending Rupture of the Belly and A Very Merry Unauthorized Children's Scientology Pageant. Now if that doesn't get you thinking I don't know what will.

Copper State Dinner Theater

3103 W Harmont Dr

If you like to have dinner included with your theater this is the perfect place for you. This is sit down dining not buffet and you have a choice of four entrees. For the price of $39.95 this is a real bargain. The shows change every couple of months.

Mystery Mansion Dinner Theater

4203 N Brown Ave # F

Scottsdale

If you want to participate in the murder mystery this is a fun and delicious way to spend a Friday or Saturday evening. You are given a new identity when you walk in the door and you then become a guest. Your job is to listen to the clue and figure out who the murder is. This is not serious theater but it is seriously funny. You also get to enjoy a three course meal.
The next time you visit the Valley of the Sun be sure to include one of their many theater venues in your plans. You will be impressed with the quality of the talent you will find.

Learn more about this author, Belle Starr.
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