World Premiere of THE EMPEROR'S NEW CLOTHES Opens February 6

Phoenix, AZ - Valley Youth Theatre begins the second half of its 26^th Anniversary Season on February 6 with the world premiere of The Emperor’s New Clothes, written and directed by VYT alum David Chorley.

“You may be familiar with the original Hans Christian Andersen story about a vain emperor who pays big bucks for clothes that can only be seen by ‘wise’ people,” said Producing Artistic Director Bobb Cooper. “Dave’s adaptation is very clever and VERY FUNNY!”

Years ago, Chorley acted in VYT shows including Peter Pan, two productions of West Side Story, three of Grease and he played Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. He also directed a traditional Japanese version of The Emperor’s New Clothes in 2001.

His cast of 21 actors range in age from 8 to 17-years-old and include 14 from Phoenix, two each from Tempe and Chandler, and one each from Goodyear, Mesa and Scottsdale. Six cast members are new to the VYT stage.

Sponsored by Kid to Kid, this play includes a very special performance on February 13.

“We partnered with St. Vincent de Paul to create ‘Dinner and a Show’ for the working poor that evening,” said Cooper, “and we’re so very thankful to the Arizona Coyotes Foundation for underwriting some of the expenses.” Dozens of families will be transported from the Family Evening Dining Room at St. Vincent de Paul’s Dream Center to Valley Youth Theatre that Friday evening.

Patrons who come to any of the 13 public performances between February 6 and 22 are encouraged to bring gently used children’s clothing for the St Vincent de Paul drop box in the theater lobby.

Kid to Kid locations in Gilbert and Peoria will also donate apparel. “Sponsoring Emperor’s New Clothes and donating to St. Vincent de Paul is a win-win for two of the hardest working nonprofits in the Valley,” said Erica Gentile, who co-owns two local Kid to Kid stores.

Tickets to The Emperor’s New Clothes are $20 and available by calling the VYT box office at 602.253.8188 x2 or ordering online at VYT.com.