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Youth theater group tells Taylor County commissioners it boosts student skills and brings local ticket revenue
Summary
Cass and Company Drama Group presented a group of students and told commissioners the nonprofit generated $21,852 in local tourism spending (Dec 2024–Dec 2025), has grown enrollment and runs spring/fall classes and a summer camp; the group said it hopes to acquire property for a permanent space.
Tanya Benziger, artistic managing director of Cass and Company Drama Group, introduced a group of young performers at the Taylor County commissioners’ meeting on Jan. 20 and described the nonprofit’s growth and community role.
Benziger said the group formed in 2019 to fill a gap in local performing arts, resumed in 2021 after pandemic shutdowns and now runs classes and productions for roughly 30 participants. Students and alumni told the board theater increased confidence, responsibility and technical skills in lighting, sound and stagecraft. Organizers reported 555 local and 88 non-local ticket buyers between December 2024 and December 2025 and estimated that local tourism spending attributable to their events was $21,852 for that period.
Benziger said the program has expanded class and camp enrollment — from nine students in fall 2023 to 28 in 2025, with summer camp participation rising from 13 in 2022 to 25 in 2025 — and that leaders are seeking a property to establish a permanent home for classes and productions. Several students gave short testimonials during the presentation; one, Jessa Pen, described finding a passion for theater and increased self-assurance.
Why it matters: County officials routinely cite arts and cultural activities as community assets that can support tourism and youth development. The group’s modest ticket revenue and clear enrollment growth were presented as early indicators of community economic contribution and social benefit.
Next steps: Benziger said organizers are pursuing property acquisition and will continue outreach to grow programs; commissioners thanked the group and encouraged ongoing engagement with county officials and potential partners.
