Erica Ascher, Co-Founder and Co-Director of Professional Youth Theatre, passed away at the age of 47 after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Her passion for theater education was undeniable, and throughout her tenure as Co-Director, PYT never denied admission to a student who could not pay for a theatrical education. The Erica Ascher Scholarship Fund for Young Actors will ensure that even more students who do not have the means to pursue an extracurricular education in musical theater will be able to do so. All funds will be independently managed and 100% of all proceeds will go to scholarships for tuition to the program.

Each summer, Professional Youth Theatre produces an Alumni and Staff Benefit Cabaret. All moneys collected from this event are split evenly between breast cancer research (the American Cancer Society) and the Erica Ascher Scholarship Fund for Young Actors. This performance is in honor and memory of former Co-Director and Co-Founder of PYT, Ms. Erica Ascher. Thank you so much for your generous donation.