In a groundbreaking artistic endeavor, the Young Artists of America (YAA) is set to stage Disney's The Hunchback of Notre Dame in its most ambitious production ever. Scheduled for April 26, 2025, at the Music Center at Strathmore in North Bethesda, Maryland, this one-time performance will bring together over 200 talented young performers from various YAA divisions and local high school choirs. Celebrating inclusivity and innovation in arts education, YAA has earned accolades, including a Regional Emmy Award, and provided platforms for emerging talents who have graced Broadway stages. Featuring music by Alan Menken and Stephen Schwartz, alongside striking visual elements designed by renowned artists, the show promises to captivate audiences with its timeless themes and powerful storytelling.

A Night to Remember: The Grand Spectacle of The Hunchback of Notre Dame

In the heart of Montgomery County, Maryland, the Young Artists of America (YAA) continues its mission of fostering creativity among youth through an extraordinary theatrical event. On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the Music Center at Strathmore, located at 5301 Tuckerman Lane in North Bethesda, MD, will host a unique presentation of Disney’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame. This remarkable production involves more than 200 young performers hailing from diverse groups such as YAACompany, YAAOrchestra, YAAJunior, and the Richard Montgomery High School Concert Choir. Inspired by Victor Hugo’s classic novel, the musical features an Academy Award-nominated score enhanced by fresh compositions. With costumes crafted by Ryan J. Moller and projections designed by Dominic Grijalva, the story unfolds against a backdrop of medieval Paris, where Quasimodo dreams of acceptance amidst societal prejudice. As tensions rise between characters like Esmeralda, Captain Phoebus, and Dom Claude Frollo, the narrative explores themes of love, justice, and courage. Tickets priced between $18-$78 are available online for what promises to be an unforgettable evening.

As someone who appreciates the power of art to inspire change, witnessing how YAA empowers young individuals to express themselves boldly through theater is deeply moving. This production not only highlights the importance of nurturing creative talent but also underscores the value of using art to challenge societal norms and foster empathy. By presenting The Hunchback of Notre Dame, YAA invites us all to reflect on our own capacities for understanding and compassion, reminding us that everyone deserves a chance to shine brightly in their unique way.