Start a CYT Branch

Christian Youth Theater (CYT) is a national family of nonprofit organizations committed to developing character, creativity, and confidence through exceptional theater arts training, all while reflecting the heart of Jesus.

Each local CYT Branch brings this mission to life in its own community: gathering families, raising young leaders, and creating spaces where students discover their voice and their identity in Christ.

CYT National exists to protect the mission, cultivate the culture, and walk alongside every branch, from established programs to brand-new startups. We don’t just launch theater companies. We launch ministries. We build communities. We shape generations.

Our dream is bold and simple:
Every city needs a CYT.
And maybe your city is next.

"Any person, from any age, with any sort of background is accepted in CYT and there is a feeling of love and compassion the minute you walk through the door."

CYT Student

The CYT National Map

Currently, there are 23 local CYT Branches across the United States. From Virginia to California and Illinois to Texas, over 12,000 kids weekly find a safe place to belong, perform, and improve their craft in an environment that points them to Jesus. There is a great need for development and expansion into new territories throughout the US and beyond.

Why CYT?

CYT is a national network of faith-based youth theater organizations serving communities across the country. Every branch is united by a shared mission:
To develop character and leadership through theater arts, helping young people find their voice, their purpose, and their identity in Christ.

What makes CYT different?
  • Theater training rooted in biblical values
  • Excellence in performance and production
  • Leadership development for students and adults
  • Safe, structured, and spiritually grounded environments
  • National support, shared resources, and proven systems
This is not simply theater.
This is theater with purpose.

A Thoughtful, Guided Startup Process

Launching a CYT Branch is not simply starting a program...it is stepping into the role of a Founder.

CYT Founders are leaders who deeply understand the mission of CYT and are willing to carry it faithfully into their community. They are builders, visionaries, servant-leaders, and entrepreneurs at heart; dedicated to creating something that will bless families and shape young lives for generations.

Because of the impact a CYT Branch can have, we take the startup process seriously. Every prospective Founder is thoughtfully assessed through an in-depth selection and training pathway. This isn’t to create barriers. It’s to ensure that when a Branch launches, it is healthy, supported, and positioned for long-term success.

Founders do not start CYT for financial gain, nor as a short-term project. This is a long-game calling. It requires dedication, resilience, prayer, and perseverance. Often, it takes several years for a Branch to become fully established. The fruit is lasting: young people discovering identity in Christ, families finding community, and cities transformed through the arts.

Starting a CYT Branch is a privilege.
It is hard work.
It is holy work.
And the reward is Kingdom-deep.
That’s why we’ve created a guided startup process — so no Founder walks alone.
The Process

Application Windows

To ensure every new branch receives focused training and support, CYT operates startup cohorts with defined application windows.

Early Intake for 2026 Launch Cohort

Applications Open: February 1
Deadline: March 15
This special accelerated cohort is designed to help new branches launch their first summer programs in 2026.

Future cohorts will follow the standard annual application cycle below.

Applications Open: August 1 – October 31
Assessments Completed: November
Formation Phase: December – February
Training Phase: February – April
Launch Prep: April – June
Summer Camps Launch: June / July

If you feel called to bring CYT to your city, we encourage you to apply during this window.
For decades, CYT has been developing character and creativity through quality theater arts training that brings families and communities together while reflecting Jesus. Every local Branch across the Nation started with an individual who had a passion, maybe even a calling, to build character, bring hope and express the Love of God to those who desperately need it. If you are ready to take the first step toward starting a CYT Branch, click below. We are here and ready to help!
Start The Journey!