Ever since I was a little boy, I have been captivated by the world of The Wizard of Oz. There was something deeply personal about that journey — the feeling of being a little different, of landing in a world that didn’t quite understand you, and of finding your chosen family along a winding road. At the time, I didn’t have the language for why it resonated so strongly. I just knew it did.
Years later, as a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I understand. The story of Oz is, at its heart, about self-discovery, belonging, resilience, and courage. It is about outsiders who learn that what they’ve been searching for has been within them all along. That realization changed the way I saw the story — and myself.
I went in search of knowledge and found it — earning four scientific degrees and discovering that intellect is not given, but cultivated. I learned that a full heart is built through love — and I found mine in musical theatre and in the extraordinary chosen family it gave me. I had to grow into my courage — the bravery to live authentically, proudly, and without apology. There’s a bit of bubbles in me too — a belief in leading with light, joy, and yes, occasionally a fabulous outfit. And I would be remiss not to acknowledge the wicked moments — the times of isolation, exile, and loneliness that so many of us know too well. Those chapters, too, are part of the story. But above all, I never forget where I came from. I carry my beginnings with me, and I hold close the truth that there really is no place like home — especially when you’ve had to build that home yourself.
As Artistic Director, these themes are at the heart of the stories I am drawn to tell: stories of courage, heart, intellect, and belonging. Stories that remind us that we are not alone on the journey — and that sometimes the road we’re walking, however winding, is leading us exactly where we’re meant to be.
I couldn’t be happier to announce the creation of Emerald City Players—a community theatre that uplifts and challenges our community, placing bravery at the heart of every performance, honoring empathy and connection in every character, and championing intelligence and creativity in every story we tell! I hope you journey down this road with us and participate in the exciting new projects we have planned. Whether on the stage or in the audience, we will see you at Emerald City!
Paul Yount, Artistic Director
