YAPI Young Artist Performance Incubator

YAPI seeks to encourage and inspire youth age 18 and under to explore performing for each other, their families and the public in a safe, non-competitive, supportive environment. Performances of all kinds and skill levels are welcomed. YAPI motivates young performers to make positive use of their leisure time as they strive to grow artistically. YAPI encourages young performers to write and to per

form. Original material is encouraged, however, not required. YAPI provides an opportunity for young performers to learn stage presence skills such as engaging the audience with eye contact, introducing their songs/act, and acknowledging applause. For many participants, YAPI is their first performance in front of an audience with a sound system. YAPI is a performance opportunity independent of a school system or church, where young people can perform appropriate material of their choice and hang out with their peers in a supervised social setting. YAPI encourages youth to respect each others’ differences and musical preferences. It provides an opportunity for youth to become good listeners and possibly pair up to form other acts or ensembles. In addition to performing, YAPI provides an opportunity for youth to work together and exercise leadership skills if they decide to perform in small groups.