About Us
Youth Inspirations Theatre: Where Creativity Builds Confidence and Community
At Youth Inspirations Theatre (YIT), we enrich lives through the performing arts—one student at a time. Rooted in strong family values, YIT brings students and their families together, fostering a sense of community, connection, and shared purpose.
We value every person who walks through our doors and are dedicated to nurturing both confidence and skill in the performing arts. Our mission is to build meaningful relationships with each student, allowing us to support their artistic growth and help them thrive as confident, compassionate members of their community.
We believe in the lasting impact of music and arts education—not only for developing stage presence, but also for enhancing learning abilities and social skills. Whether through productions, classes, workshops, summer camps, or private lessons, we offer a team-oriented atmosphere combined with individualized instruction to meet each student’s unique needs.
YIT proudly produces six performances each year, giving students the opportunity to participate in high-quality, professional-level productions that offer real-world insight into the theatre industry. Whether you’re looking to boost your child’s self-confidence, help them find a creative outlet, or share a meaningful family experience, Youth Inspirations Theatre has something for everyone.
Our Story
Youth Inspirations Theater was founded with one simple belief: every child deserves a place to be seen, supported, and inspired through the performing arts. What began as a vision to offer high-quality arts education with a more personal touch has grown into a comprehensive, one-stop destination for creative expression. At YIT, students explore theatre, dance, music across all instruments, ensemble work, and performance—all within a nurturing, family-focused environment.
We are passionate about enriching lives through the arts by honoring each student’s unique talents, building confidence, and fostering a lifelong love for creativity—one student at a time. Our programs are designed to be accessible and convenient for families, without ever compromising the excellence of our instruction or the individualized attention every child deserves.
At the heart of YIT are strong values rooted in inclusion, respect, and community. We proudly welcome students from all walks of life, creating a space where everyone belongs. Here, every child is celebrated for who they are and encouraged to grow into who they are meant to be—on stage and beyond.
Meet the Team
Founder/Artistic Director/Executive Director
Julie Nottingham is the Executive Director of Youth Inspirations Theatre (YIT), where she leads the mission to enrich, empower, and engage young artists through the performing arts. She holds a Bachelor of Music in K–12 Vocal/General Music Education from Butler University and brings extensive experience as a performer, educator, and arts advocate.
Julie has performed in professional theatre, cabaret, and community productions at venues including the Paramount Theater, Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre, and American Cabaret Theatre. As a dedicated music educator, she has directed numerous productions and workshops, inspiring students to find their voice and grow creatively.
Under her leadership, YIT has expanded its programs to include musical theatre, vocal and instrumental instruction, and inclusive, community-focused experiences that help students build confidence, collaboration, and creativity.
Marketing Director
Megan is a creative professional with over 15 years of experience in dance, performance, and arts leadership.
A dancer since age three, she trained and competed at an elite level and holds a degree in Theatre Arts with a concentration in Management and Dance from Centenary College (now university). Her background includes work with the Carolyn Dorfman Dance Company, R2 Dance Company, and the Mark Morris Dance Company, as well as serving as an Adjunct Professor of Dance at Centenary University.
In addition to her performing arts career, Megan is a seasoned entrepreneur and marketing strategist who brings a collaborative spirit, a passion for developing the whole performer, and a belief in community-driven storytelling to support YIT's mission and impact.
Administrative Assistant/Stars Company Coordinator/Director/Vocal Instructor
Hannah Bergman is a performer, director, and choreographer originally from Indianapolis, Indiana. She has spent the last 6 years working professionally across the country .Hannah has a BFA in Musical Theatre and an Education minor from The University of Tampa.
Some of Hannah’s favorite credits include the National Tour of Robin Hood with Missoula Children’s Theatre and Grease the musical at Myers Dinner Theatre!
She is thrilled to be working as a director, choreographer , and educator with YIT this season! Hannah would like to thank her family and current partner for their love and constant support.
Katie DeVries
Studio & Productions Operations Manager
Katie DeVries is a theatre and film artist originally from Monee, Illinois. She is very excited to start her journey as the Studio and Productions Operations Manager at YIT! Katie is a recent graduate of Olivet Nazarene University, where she earned her Bachelor's Degree in Theatre Production & Performance and Multimedia Communication with a concentration in Film Studies.
She first discovered her love of theatre in 7th grade, and hasn't stopped telling stories since. Throughout her time at ONU, she has been an actor, director, sound designer, stage manager, and the Artistic Director of their student-led theatre company. Some of Katie’s favorite credits include Captain Hook (Never Fairy), Alice in Wonderland (Dormouse), Tuck Everlasting (Assistant Director), and 1984(Julia U/S). She was a Senior Intern at BAM Theatre in Westmont, IL, for a summer, and was most recently the Marketing Intern at 87North Productions in Los Angeles, CA in the spring.
Katie lives with her family in Indianapolis and loves Jesus, musicals, books, puzzles, movies/tv, and her dog, Pumpkin!
Candace Eckert
Fundraising and Business Development Director
With a lifelong passion for dance and performing arts education, Candace is excited to serve as the Fundraising and Sponsorship Manager for Youth Inspirations Theatre. As a dance instructor, studio manager, and former four-year member of the Indiana University RedSteppers Dance Team, she has spent years inspiring young performers while building meaningful relationships with students, families, and the community.
Her professional background includes marketing, event planning, and community engagement, where she has led large-scale fundraising events, developed branding and marketing strategies, and cultivated partnerships that strengthen organizational growth. Candace is passionate about connecting sponsors and community partners with Youth Inspirations Theatre’s mission to provide life-changing opportunities for young artists.
She is excited to build lasting relationships with local businesses, donors, and supporters to help Youth Inspirations Theatre increase community involvement, expand opportunities for students, and continue growing its impact for generations of young performers.
Jeanne Bowling
Voice Instructor / Director / Music Director
Jeanne Bowling is a voice teacher, musical director, performer, and designer who teaches musical theatre at Butler University and directs youth musical theatre. She holds a Master of Vocal Pedagogy from Westminster Choir College and previously taught voice and directed choral ensembles at Marian University and Park Tudor School.
Jeanne is a founding member of Summer Stock Stage, serving as musical director for over 30 productions, and has worked as a music director for professional and educational theatre across Indiana. As a performer, she has appeared with Beef & Boards, Civic Theatre, Indianapolis Opera, and the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.
Karlee Ferreira
Guest Choreographer
Karlee Ferreira has been immersed in the world of theatre and dance from a young age, growing up as a competitive dancer and participating in community theatre. Her passion for theatre has been a driving force in her life since she was little, leading her to an illustrious career in the performing arts.
Karlee’s professional experience includes notable roles and performances on Broadway and National Tours. She has served as Dance Captain, Swing, and Understudy for Peggy/Maria for various productions of Hamilton, including the Chicago, Los Angeles (Eliza Tour), and Angelica Tour.
Additionally, she was cast in the Broadway production of In the Heights as a Vacation Swing and performed across the country as a Swing in the First National Tour of Aladdin.
Reno Moore
Acting Instructor/Choreographer
Reno Moore, a strong believer in the power of intentional art, is an actor and performer based here in Indianapolis.
After Graduating with his BFA in Musical Theater from AMDA College & Conservatory he has gone on to be in several shows and performances across the country.
Since being back in Nap he's been in productions of Footloose, The Wild Party, Legally Blonde, and Amadeus to name a few!
Darcy Mraz
Resident Choreographer and Stars Company
Co-Director
Darcy Mraz is a dancer, choreographer, and educator originally from Aurora, Illinois. She received her foundational training at Storm Dance Alliance as a member of their pre-professional company before attending Western Kentucky University, where she graduated with a degree in Dance. While at WKU, Darcy showcased her versatility performing as a member of both the Topperettes Dance Team and the WKU Dance Company.
Darcy brings a wealth of diverse experience to Youth Inspiration Theatre, spanning competitive choreography and extensive studio instruction. She has trained students ranging from ages 4 to 22 in ballet, jazz, modern, hip hop, and musical theatre. As a passionate artist dedicated to storytelling and growth, Darcy is thrilled to co-direct and choreograph for the Stars Company, and she can't wait to inspire the next generation of performers!
Voice Private Lesson Instructor
Hugh Paul is a professional musical theatre performer and voice teacher based in Indiana. He graduated with a BFA in musical theatre from the Stephens College Conservatory for the Performing Arts in 2025 and has performed in multiple regional theatres and amusement parks around the country, while teaching voice lessons remotely and at his home studio. He is so excited to be joining Youth Inspirations Theatre as a voice teacher this Fall!
Job Opportunities at Youth Inspirations Theatre
Join our team of passionate, certified, and highly qualified instructors at Youth Inspirations Theatre (YIT). We are proud to uphold a standard of excellence in performing arts education through our classes, productions, and private lessons.
We are currently seeking enthusiastic and dedicated professionals for the following roles:
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Summer Camp Instructors
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Class Instructors
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Private Lesson Instructors (all instruments and voice)
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Production Staff (technical and creative)
At YIT, every role plays a vital part in shaping a nurturing, family-centered environment where students of all backgrounds can grow in confidence, creativity, and skill. Ideal candidates will:
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Work well with children and families
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Be collaborative and student-focused
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Embrace inclusive practices
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Demonstrate strong communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities
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Be passionate about fostering community through the performing arts
If you’re excited to inspire the next generation of performers while being part of a supportive and values-driven team, we’d love to hear from you.
Apply today and help us bring the magic of theatre to life—one student at a time.
Current job openings
to apply email:
julie@yitindy.org
Internship Opportunities at Youth Inspirations Theatre
Youth Inspirations Theatre (YIT) is proud to support the next generation of educators, directors, artists, and arts administrators through our dynamic internship program.
If you’re pursuing a career in the performing arts, this is your opportunity to gain hands-on experience alongside our experienced educational staff and industry professionals. As a YIT intern, you’ll build essential skills through training, collaboration, observation, and direct involvement with students in classes or productions.
Our internship program offers:
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Practical experience in teaching, directing, and production
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Mentorship from seasoned professionals
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Resume-building opportunities
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Real-world experience in a collaborative, family-oriented environment
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Networking connections within the arts and education communities
Interns work during weekday evenings, supporting classes and rehearsals in theatre, music, and dance. This program is ideal for high school seniors, college students, or recent graduates looking to expand their experience in the arts.
Ready to make an impact and grow your future in the performing arts?
Apply today and take the next step in your creative journey with YIT!