TYA/USA Announces 2026 National Festival and Conference: ILLUMINATE

NEW YORK CITY: Theater for Young Audiences/USA (TYA/USA), the leading national service organization for theatre for children and families, will host the 2026 TYA/USA National Festival and Conference, themed ILLUMINATE, May 27-29, 2026. This event brings together the largest group of TYA leaders, educators, artists, and organizations in the contry. Registration is now open.

“ILLUMINATE, the theme of the 2026 National Festival & Conference, highlights the voices, visions, and innovations that will guide our community through challenging times,” says TYA/USA executive director Sara Morgulis. “We’ll celebrate creative courage, tackle critical issues facing our field, and build the energy needed to create a more equitable world for young audiences. We’re thrilled to partner with Alliance Theatre, a TYA leader, for this vital event.”

The festival welcomes all ages and will feature 13 performances.Expect everything from immersive experiences for babies to new plays and musicals for teens and families. A key focus will be intergenerational storytelling and strengthening community bonds. It will again be presented in conjunction with Alliance Theatre in Atlanta.

Performances include works like Threshold’s “RAIN: for babies and their carers,” offering a glimpse into the diverse range of shows planned. The festival isn’t just about watching performances; it’s a chance to connect with peers, share ideas, and shape the future of TYA. Expect workshops, panels, and networking opportunities designed to inspire and empower those working in the field.

TYA/USA’s commitment to equity and inclusion is central to the ILLUMINATE theme. The conference will actively address issues of access, representation, and cultural relevance in theatre for young audiences. This is a space for honest conversations and collaborative problem-solving.