Starr Youth Theatre exists to create a place where young people can grow as artists, build confidence, and discover the joy of authentic self-expression. We believe theatre is at its best when every child feels seen, valued, and empowered to be themselves.

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That vision comes from our founder and Artistic Director, Becka Wilson-Selders, whose own life was transformed by the mentors and experiences she found in theatre as a child.

 

In 1996, six-year-old Becka attended her first theatrical production. After the show she turned to her mom and said, "I could do that." What began as childhood excitement quickly became a lifelong passion.

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Growing up, Becka spent her summers at the theatre in Beatrice, Nebraska, surrounded by artists and educators who nurtured her creativity. Among them, one mentor had a profound and lasting impact: Paul Pearson.

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"I was fortunate to spend my summers in the theatre in Beatrice, surrounded by artists and mentors who encouraged me to dream big. But no one shaped me more than Paul Pearson.

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Paul believed the best theatre didn't come from trying to be perfect—it came from giving young people the freedom to be themselves. He challenged us to take creative risks, trust our instincts, and support one another. More importantly, he created a space where every child felt seen, valued, and capable of something extraordinary.

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Looking back, I realize he wasn't just teaching us how to put on a show. He was teaching us how to become confident, compassionate people. My hope is that every young person who walks through our doors leaves feeling the way Paul made me feel: capable, creative, and completely themselves."

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Those experiences shaped Becka's vision from an early age: to create the kind of theatre community where every young person has the opportunity to discover not only their artistic voice, but also their confidence, courage, and sense of belonging.

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After graduating from Doane University in 2012, Becka spent more than a decade working as a freelance theatre artist—directing productions, teaching workshops, creating after-school programs, choreographing musicals, and helping young performers discover the confidence that comes from creative expression.

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Starr Youth Theatre is the next chapter of that journey.

We're proud to join Lincoln's vibrant arts community with a mission rooted in authentic storytelling, meaningful mentorship, and the belief that theatre has the power to change lives. 

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Starr Youth Theatre is currently pursuing 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, and we look forward to joining the incredible network of organizations making a difference in our community.