Yampa Valley Players Perform Descendants in Hayden

On a crisp spring evening in Hayden, the lights of the Hayden Center's auditorium will shine bright as the Yampa Valley Players take the stage to perform "Descendants". The sound of laughter and music will fill the 300-seat venue, a space that has become a hub for community-driven productions. As the curtains draw open, a cast of over 20 kids, including students from both Steamboat Springs and Hayden, will bring to life the story of Disney's iconic heroes and villains.

For producer and director Abbey Iberg, this production represents a significant moment in the group's transition as an independent nonprofit. The group's commitment to providing opportunities for youth to participate in theater at no cost remains unwavering, with a focus on covering everything from costumes to production needs. This year's show, however, arrives at a time of change, as the organization has recently separated from Perry-Mansfield Performing Arts School and Camp and now operates independently.

The amicable split has allowed the group to reimagine its approach to community theater, including where it performs and how it engages the region. The decision to perform at the Hayden Center reflects the group's broader goal of serving the entire Yampa Valley, rather than just being a Steamboat Springs organization. Iberg emphasized the importance of this mission, stating that the group aims to open the door to more participation from Hayden and Craig.

In practice, this means that the cast includes students from both Steamboat Springs and Hayden, with younger performers taking on the roles of the descendants and older students portraying the iconic Disney parents. Notable performances include Mikayla Lopes of Hayden as Maleficent, Naomi Pederson as Mal, and Phoebe Pederson as Jay. The story itself draws from Disney's popular "Descendants" franchise, exploring themes of identity, expectation, and choice. Let's do the math: with over 20 kids in the production, the organization is providing a unique opportunity for local youth to develop their performing arts skills. On paper, this may seem like just another community theater production, but in reality, it represents a significant investment in the region's young people. For context, the Yampa Valley Players are one of the only organizations in the region offering free theater opportunities for youth, making this production a vital part of the community's cultural landscape. The group's commitment to accessibility and inclusivity is evident in its decision to perform in Hayden, a location that allows for greater participation from the surrounding area. In a region where opportunities for youth to engage in the performing arts may be limited, the organization is filling a vital gap.

The practical impact of this production is clear: it provides a platform for local youth to develop their skills, build confidence, and connect with their community. As the curtains close on the final performance, the production will have made a tangible contribution to the region's cultural landscape, one that will be felt long after the show is over. The cost of tickets may be a few dollars, but the value of this production to the community is immeasurable. Performances are scheduled for May 1, May 2, May 3, May 8, and May 10, at the Hayden Center. For folks around here, this is more than just a community theater production - it's a chance to see local youth shine on stage, and to support an organization that is dedicated to making the performing arts accessible to all. Abbey Iberg's approach to the production emphasizes the importance of playing the human element, and this is evident in the way the show comes together. This production is not just a show - it's an investment in the region's future, and a celebration of the talent and creativity that exists right here in our own backyard.