“Directorial Debut Proves Healing for Yelm Performer Dawn Young”

• Editor’s note: I am so proud of Dawn and how her personal evolution and expansion adds to the benefit of our community and theater!

“Young is making her directorial debut with Standing Room Only’s production of award-winning Broadway musical The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, which runs through June 23 with Simpson-Jones returning as the musical director. After more than 20 years as an actor, singer and choreographer she is tapping into that experience to get the best out of a cast that ranges from seasoned performers to those who have never been on stage.

“Young’s approach to directing involves creating a safe environment where every member of the crew is safe to express ideas and try new things. ‘I knew I wanted to focus on communication and developing a positive culture,’ she says. ‘It’s a place that anyone can come into and know they will be listened to, valued and respected.'”

“Over nearly two decades in Yelm, Young has performed with the now-defunct Drew Harvey Theater, South Puget Sound Community College, and Opera Pacifica, led education programs in local elementary and middle schools, and been an Artist in Residence for Yelm Community Schools.  She co-founded Standing Room Only with fellow local performers to unify the performing arts community in Yelm and surrounding areas,” by Heidi Smith, Thurston Talk. Read more