Bellingham Arts Academy for Youth

★★★★★Kathy Weinkle

We first were introduced to BAAY by going to see a show (Seussical) when my daughter was nearly 5. Soon after, she hit the stage in her first Pixie show, the Wizard of Oz and then in the BAAY choir in first grade at school. We never looked back after that. She did shows most of the year every year until she was in high school when she focused more on dance. BAAY gave her the opportunity to let herself try out different parts of herself and put it all out there. I saw her confidence grow play by play. To see her and other kids do this to me is one of the core gifts that BAAY provides. BAAY provided community, friendship, and so much fun. And gave her the opportunity to learn what it is to work with a team to produce something beautiful. As she got older, she also became a Pixie helper and loved her time working with the younger kids. She is a hard worker to this day and I'm imagining that some of that work ethic was developed at a young age at BAAY. As a parent and a long-time volunteer in many of the shows my daughter performed in, I so appreciated the camaraderie and connection that came through those opportunities. From selling tickets to ushering to walking with the cast, staff and and parents to Mallards after the Saturday night shows holds a sweet place in my memory bank. As a parent, I am grateful for what BAAY provided my daughter who is now off to college. To me it is clear that BAAY is community and we are grateful for what that has provided well beyond the stage.

★★★★★Michelle Zehr

The BAAY theater has wonderful programs for kids. My kids have LOVED the movies and plays they have been a part of there. The instructors do a wonderful job of making sure every child gets a part in every performance, and has a chance for their voice to be heard. The positive and empowering teaching approach brings out confidence even in kids that tend to be shy. I love the encouraging feedback that is given to each child during every rehearsal, getting them excited for the performance. The movies and plays are very creative, unique and fun! I feel like they go above and beyond at BAAY to create wonderful opportunities for kids.

★★★★★Susan Hemingson

We love BAAY! We have been proud BAAY parents, supporters and audience members for years now. Our kids have benefited so much from the opportunity to participate in BAAY's programming, both at the theater downtown and also in their elementary schools through EduArts. BAAY is more than just a theater or an arts program, it's a community of students and caring adults who help kids find their voices and express themselves in a welcoming, inclusive environment. Our kids have been encouraged to take risks, try new things, and be part of a collaborative team - and they feel a true sense of belonging at BAAY. We are so lucky to have a place like BAAY in our community!

★★★★★Jennifer Fairey

We love BAAY theater! The teachers and staff are great with kids and teens. My kids always love being a part of the show, from big to small rolls. Their efforts during the pandemic were incredible! From online classes, to theater at Larrabee park, they did such a creative, and fantastic job. My favorite thing about BAAY is their inclusion, they offer scholarships so all kids can participate. Thanks to Lisa, Evan, and Juliette, you are all changing kids (and parents) lives! We as a community are so grateful!

★★★★★samantha konikoff

We love BAAY! Our daughter has been in 4 or 5 shows virtual and in person and loves it. She has learned how to work as a member of a team, and that means no matter what told she gets, she is just as important. I have loved all the directors she has had. They show kindness and support and a love for each and every kids individuality. I love that the shows are fun and unique and always a joy to watch.