
INFORMATION: (619) 670-1627
Young Actors' Theatre is a California 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
"A THEATRE EXPERIENCE THAT LASTS A LIFETIME"

A San Diego Youth theatre & YAT premiere:
Dare to Dream Jr.
A Disney Musical Revue
November 6-16, 2025​
@Lakeside Middle School
Director:
Christine Cordova

Christine Cordova has been a passionate and creative force in youth theater for over 30 years. She began her journey as a makeup artist, classroom teacher, and audition coach—skills she still enjoys today—but quickly discovered her true calling as a director. An award-winning theater artist, Christine has brought to life beloved productions such as Finding Nemo, Shrek, The Little Mermaid, The Wizard of Oz, Willy Wonka, Peter Pan, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, and Beauty & The Beast.
As a mother of five—each of whom grew up in youth theatre—Christine brings a dual perspective to her work, understanding the process from both a parent’s and director’s point of view. She currently works with the El Capitan High School Theater Department as a performance expert and continues to direct with Young Actors Theater, where she remains deeply committed to inspiring the next generation of performers. Christine finds her greatest joy in teaching young performers and watching their confidence and talent flourish on stage.
She’s especially excited for the YAT Premiere of Dare to Dream Jr! It is a magical production filled with fun roles for all ages, iconic Disney music from 1937-2021, dynamic choreography, and an original story designed especially for today’s young performers. Dare to Dream Jr asks each character to look inside their heart and think about something they want, something they dream about. Christine is thrilled to work again with her son Marc Caro-Willcox as Choreographer, Kailee Ash-Ray as Music Director, and Miles Reed as Stage Manager.
Don’t miss this magical adventure!
Music Director:
Kailee Ash-Ray
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Kailee Ash-Ray is a Playwright, Music Director, Vocal Coach and Teaching Artist originally from Illinois, but currently resides in San Diego, California. She graduated with a BFA from Millikin University in K-12 Music Education and taught Middle School band at MSA for 2 years. Currently, Kailee runs an independent vocal coach practice and serves as a Music Director for companies all over the county. Local music directing credits include: Spelling Bee (YAT), James and the Giant Peach (JT), Curtains (CPH), Sweeney Todd (CPH), 13 The Musical (YAT), Grace for President (JT), Finding Nemo Jr. (YAT) and Tuck Everlasting (YAT).
Choreographer:
Marc Caro-Willcox

Marc Caro-Willcox is happy to be back at YAT with this dream team! He is a San Diego native actor, director and choreographer. Previous choreographic credits at YAT include: Tuck Everlasting (Dir/Chor), The Little Mermaid, Xanadu, and Willy Wonka. Other production credits in San Diego include: Playwrights Project/The Old Globe, Scripps Ranch Theatre, SDJT, Helix Charter High School, Coronado Playhouse, Canyon Crest Academy. Marc currently serves as the President of the Board at Coronado Playhouse. He also is the choreographer for the award-winning show choir program at Helix Charter High School. Thanks to Oliver for everything!
Stage Manager:
Miles Reed
Student Assistant Director:
Ruby Smith
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Ruby is 16 years old and a junior in high school. She has been apart of multiple productions since she was 8 years old. Some of her past productions she’s been in include, The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee ( swing), Mean Girls ( Rachel H/Featured Dancer/ Greek Chorus), Finding Nemo ( Dory) and Camp rock (Mitchie Torres). She is so incredibly grateful for this opportunity to work alongside this amazing team and bring this show to life!!! This is her first show working behind the scenes and she would like to thank Christine for this amazing opportunity!
