We had the good fortune of connecting with Amber Ryan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amber, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I have always known I belong in the theater. As a young girl, my mom took me to my first play, and from the moment the curtains opened, I was enthralled. The experience evoked such strong emotions that I knew that my life would always be connected to the stage.

When my daughter was 5, I found herself in the world of youth theater—teaching my daughter and her friends and later, starting youth programs for various Phoenix theaters.

Actors PLAYground is my encore performance—my personal vision for youth theater brought to life. It’s a place where adult directors recognize and fulfill the needs of each individual performer. It’s a judgment-free zone where young people are encouraged to bring their whole selves to every production, to take creative risks, and to explore new concepts and emotions.

Young people grow in their craft, but more importantly, as people. Their confidence expands. They make connections. They understand the human experience and develop greater empathy. They explore complex conversations and emotions. They transform.

At Actors PLAYground, the theater is personal because we know its power. Magic happens here every day because of the environment we’ve created and our approach to the craft: We focus on personal growth just as much as developing talent. And it’s that balance that makes Actors PLAYground special.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Amber Ryan brings the perfect blend of business management, theater experience and creative vision to Actors PLAYground Theater Company. Amber has over 15 years of experience working with youth theater. She has directed over 40 productions and started multiple highly successful youth theater programs throughout the Valley. Ambers’ work has received the ariZoni Theater Awards of Excellence for Overall Production for a youth play and Director of a youth play, the past two years. Amber also has extensive business and management experience. For 24 years she operated her own profitable business. Her balance of leadership and interpersonal skills lead to the company’s long-term stability and success. Prior to that, she was a General Manager of a multi-million-dollar franchise, overseeing 17 locations and 100+employees.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mom, who taught me unconditional love and loyalty.
Matt, my husband of 33 years, who believed in me long before I believed in myself.
My tribe of strong, independent women who lift each other up. (Rachel, Linda, Melissa, Debbie, Paris)

Website: https://actorsplayaz.com

Instagram: @actorsplayaz

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61554558751454

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