AJT (Asheville Junior Theater)
ages 8-18
Recreational Theater Ensemble
AJT is the perfect entry point for young performers eager to shine on stage! Designed for students who are new to theater, younger actors building their foundation, or developing performers ready to grow into larger roles, AJT provides a fun, supportive, and low-commitment pathway into the world of musical theater.
This program focuses on building confidence first. Students learn in an encouraging, age-appropriate environment where mistakes are part of the process and growth is celebrated. Whether a child is stepping onto the stage for the very first time or looking to strengthen existing skills, AJT meets performers where they are and helps them move forward with clarity and confidence.
With just one rehearsal per week until we get closer to the show (two for leads), AJT is intentionally structured to balance theater with school, sports, and family life. As performance time approaches, rehearsal frequency increases slightly to ensure students feel fully prepared and proud of their work on stage.
Throughout the season, performers explore the fundamentals of acting, singing, and dancing while also learning essential theater habits such as listening, teamwork, stage presence, and following direction. Students gain valuable performance experience in a positive, high-energy rehearsal room designed to nurture both skill development and a love for the arts.
AJT is ideal for families seeking a meaningful theater experience without the heavier time demands of advanced programs. It’s a place where beginners feel welcome, growing actors gain momentum, and emerging leaders begin preparing for the next level.
Cost is $450 per show, plus the yearly membership fee of $50. This includes weekly rehearsals (with additional rehearsals closer to the performance). Costumes are included for use in this production and remain the property of AJT.
This is where confidence begins. This is where skills take root. This is AJT.
AJT's Spring Show - Matilda the Musical JR
Rebellion is high in Matilda JR., a gleefully witty ode to the anarchy of childhood and the power of imagination! Audiences will cheer for the “revolting children” as they rise up to teach the grown-ups a lesson.
Packed with high-energy dance numbers and catchy songs, Matilda JR. is the best show ever! Following one extraordinary girl with remarkable wit and surprising powers, the story celebrates intelligence, courage, and creativity in the face of injustice. With its blend of humor, heart, and youthful defiance, Matilda JR. becomes a joyous and empowering reminder that anyone — even a child — can change their world.
The season will conclude with two performances on Saturday, June 13 at the newly outfitted AJT Black Box Theater.
Whether your child is taking their first bow or reaching for the spotlight, AJT’s Matilda JR. is where their journey begins. Let the magic of theater take root and watch them shine!
Cost is $450, plus the yearly membership fee of $50, which is due upon enrollment. *Costumes are included, but are for use in this musical only and will remain the property of AJT.
What You Should Know
Rehearsals: Begin February 7, 2026
Performances: 2 performances on June 13, 2026
Rehearsal Schedule: Rehearsals are Saturdays from 2-7pm beginning February 7 and Sundays from 10-12pm for certain actors.
Holiday Time Off: No rehearsal April 5 for Easter or May 23 for our dance showcase
Rehearsal Location: South Asheville, NC
Auditions: Auditions will be held on February 14.
Fees: Full payment is due at the time of enrollment. No refunds are given for any reason, even if your junior actor does not get their desired role.
New AJT Policy
AJT now includes a brief trial period during the first two to three weeks of rehearsals to ensure that our cast members are a great fit for our productions — and that AJT feels like the right home for each child. Because our program operates at a higher level than typical junior theater, we maintain clear expectations. Actors should be able to focus during rehearsal, respect personal space, care for equipment, and listen when directors are speaking. We ask that cast members demonstrate self-control, cooperation, and maturity appropriate for a rehearsal environment.
If our directors feel that AJT may not be the best fit, we will issue a refund (minus the non-refundable $100 deposit). During registration, we kindly ask families to share any behavioral, learning, or social challenges that may affect a child’s experience. This helps us ensure a positive, supportive environment for every performer.
Other Information
Ages 8-18 are welcome to Apply for the show.
There is a mandatory parent meeting from 2:00pm on February 7.
ONE scheduled absence is allowed and will be strictly adhered to; tech and dress rehearsals are MANDATORY during show week.
Each family is responsible for helping sell tickets and spread the word about the show.
Each family is expected to volunteer during show week as a dressing room attendant, in hair/make up, or as an usher, etc. All families are asked to stay after the final show for load-out.
Check out our FAQs.
Ready to Join the Cast?
Apply to join AJT. Please expect a response within 1-2 weeks, which can extend longer if applying during show weeks. If accepted, register your child in our system, sign our policies, and “enroll” in the specific show.
Already registered? Parent Portal →