Youth Dramatics

History

Ron Blair and Sarah Dakin had the initial vision to establish a theater program for students in grades 6 through 12, serving not only Hardin County but all surrounding areas. Their passion was to educate young people on the fundamentals of theater, including technical operations and acting techniques. Crucially, they aimed to foster youth involvement within the local community theater framework.

This vision materialized as Hardin County Youth Dramatics in 2015, operating out of the Plum Alley location. Ron and Sarah managed the program from the fall of 2015 until 2018.

Leadership was subsequently transferred to Kenzie Blair, Ron's daughter, a two-year program alumna, and Jake Richardson. Kenzie and Jake co-directed the program from the fall of 2018 through 2025.

In 2025, the leadership was passed to Caleb Blair, Kenzie's brother, and Savannah Weber. Both Caleb and Savannah were original participants under Ron and Sarah's tenure and continued their involvement with Kenzie and Jake. Though their time as leaders was brief, they took significant pride in their roles. Caleb, in particular, represented the third generation of his family to lead the program.

As the program grew in scope, Caynan Strausser joined to assist Caleb and Savannah. Following Caleb and Savannah's departure, Caynan Strausser assumed full management of the program.

Preparing Students for Life Through Theater

Hardin County Playhouse's Youth Dramatics Program aims to instruct students from grades 6-12 in Hardin, Meade, Larue, Nelson, and other neighboring counties in all aspects of theatre — from acting to directing to costuming to managing a theater and much, much more! Our Youth Dramatics Program holds a long tradition of preparing teens for opportunities with Hardin County Playhouse, Youth Theater of Hardin County, school productions, PAC productions, and Governor's School for the Arts!

Caynan Strausser is the new leader for this program and is excited to get to know the kids and help them grow as actors and aspiring members of this beautiful community. Find out more about her in the Board of Directors page bios! :)