Actors PLAYground was born from a lifelong love of theater and a desire to create something meaningful for the next generation. Founder and Artistic Director Amber Ryan has always felt at home on stage. That passion took root when her mother brought her to her first play as a young girl. From that moment on, she was captivated, not just by the show, but by the magic theater could spark within people.
Years later, when Amber’s daughter was just five, she stepped into the world of youth theater again and this time as a teacher, mentor, and advocate. She began leading programs for her daughter and her daughter’s friends, eventually helping launch youth offerings at several Phoenix-area theaters. Through every role, on and off stage, Amber saw how theater could build not only performers, but people. Her next act: founding Actors PLAYground, a place where artistic exploration and personal transformation go hand-in-hand.
At the heart of Actors PLAYground are four guiding values: confidence, community, growth, and play. The theater provides more than performance opportunities, it offers a safe and inclusive space where kids, teens, and families feel seen, heard, and supported. It’s a place where young actors grow in their craft and in character. From shy children gaining confidence to teens discovering their voice, the impact is lasting.
Actors PLAYground began with youth programming and quickly expanded to serve homeschoolers, young adults, and families. Their daytime classes meet the rising demand from homeschooling families, while the 20-something series gives performers aged 15–24 access to meaningful, mature material. Family productions bring multiple generations together, as seen in beloved shows like Anne of Green Gables and Snow White, with audiences and performers alike ranging in age from 5 to 105.
This season, the theater continues its tradition of powerful storytelling with titles like Charlotte’s Web, Peter Pan, and The Nutcracker for youth and family audiences, while the 20-something series takes a deeper dive with dramatic pieces like To the Moon, which touches on domestic violence.
Community involvement is a vital part of the PLAYground experience. Volunteers are always welcome, whether it’s building sets, helping with costumes, or ushering guests. Local businesses can also partner with the theater through sponsorships, supporting its mission to bring the performing arts to all.
A standout addition is the new advanced homeschool program featuring audition-based shows like Little Women and A Murder is Announced. Within just 18 months, enrollment has tripled. Excitement is also building for the double-cast production of Puffs and a special trivia night on July 20, a must for fans of a certain famous boy wizard.
For Amber Ryan, the reward is in the transformation she sees in every student. Watching a timid child deliver their first line with confidence or seeing a teen step into leadership onstage is what fuels her passion.
At Actors PLAYground, it’s not just about putting on a good show, it’s about creating a space where creativity thrives, growth is encouraged, and everyone feels like they belong. Because here, the magic of theater is real and it happens every single day.