Theatre of Youth
Mission Statement
Theatre of Youth Company, Inc. (TOY) stimulates the imagination, nurtures the creative spirit and enhances the education of young people by engaging them in relevant, child-centered, and professionally-produced live theatre programs. TOY believes meaningful childhood experiences in the theatre develop confidence in creative thinking skills, cultivate empathy and establish a life-long connection to the arts.
About Theatre of Youth
TOY was founded in 1972 by Rosalind Cramer and Toni Smith Wilson, theatre instructors at Daemen College. Initially, TOY was a small touring theatre company that performed in schools throughout Western New York. After taking up resident in the Pfeiffer Theatre (now the Town Ballroom) and then the Franklin Street Theatre (now the Buffalo Chophouse), TOY found a permanent home in the historic Allendale Theatre. After fulfilling a 13-year quest to raise $3.5 million the theatre opened in 1999. TOY is now entering its 46th anniversary season, performing for approximately 30,000 young people and adults each year.
TOY’s 2021 Sponsors include Independent Health (Wellness Series), Hamister Family Foundation, National Fuel, M&T Bank, YRoswell, Hodgson Russ, and Owl Orthodontics. Additional support is received by the City of Buffalo, Erie County, and the Cullen Foundation.