Bobb Cooper, Valley Youth Theatre’s Billie Jo & Judd Herberger Executive Producer, has announced his retirement after nearly three decades of leading the organization. During his tenure, Cooper witnessed thousands of children pass through the doors of VYT, their lives richer for the experience. He has witnessed them grow into self-assured, poised, focused, capable, and successful adults.
“The most enduring legacy of VYT is the impact it has on the lives of its participants,” said Cooper. “For many young people, VYT is not just a theatre; it's a home away from home, a safe haven where they can express themselves freely and pursue their passions without fear or judgment. It has been my honor to serve the organization as its executive producer.”
From humble beginnings to one of the most successful youth theatre programs in the country, VYT boasts rocket scientists, doctors, lawyers, and community leaders as well as Broadway actors and Academy Award winners as alumni.
“Our first performances were in high school auditoriums and middle school all-purpose rooms. Even in the basement of a now-defunct strip mall,” said Cooper. “We’ve come a long way since then. And that is due in large part to the support of the community. It is with a grateful heart that I thank all the board members, staff, patrons, donors, and supporters who have invested in our young people all these years.”
VYT was founded in 1989 with one simple mission – to provide children in the Valley with access to professional quality theatre productions while instilling in them the importance of collaboration and commitment. Hope Ozer, board founder of VYT, has always believed that the young people participating in these programs learn something that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.
“One of the best decisions ever made at VYT was bringing Bobb Cooper on board. I still recall assuring our board back in 1996, ‘If Bobb is half as good as I think he is, we’ve struck gold!’ Well, we didn’t just strike gold – we hit the motherlode,” Ozer said. “I often shared with him a message from the plaque above my desk: ‘A hundred years from now it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I lived in, or the kind of car I drove…but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a child.”
According to Bill Ottinger, VYT board chair, Cooper’s commitment to the youth in the Phoenix area will be felt for generations to come.
“The board of directors and the countless kids and their families that have benefited from Bobb’s years of leadership at VYT greatly appreciate what he has done for this organization building it to what it is today. We know he can look back with pride, as we do, knowing that there are thousands of kids that have gone on to do amazing things.”
“Bobb has indeed had a profound impact on thousands of young lives, leaving an indelible mark on their futures. No matter what they choose to pursue – whether it be the arts, or the world of professions open to them – they will be better prepared, better at it, more self-confident, and more successful because of their participation at Valley Youth Theatre. Bobb’s legacy of inspiration will continue to impact generations to come. While I am confident the theatre will continue to thrive as he embarks on his next chapter, I already find myself missing his remarkable talent and vibrant presence,” said Ozer.
The VYT board of directors and staff have worked together for the past 18 months to develop a transition plan that capitalizes on the success of its many programs and theatre productions while establishing a clear path for Cooper’s retirement. Part of that transition plan was the promotion of VYT alum Leigh Ann Dolan to managing director to oversee the day-to-day operations of the organization.
“Knowing my retirement was on the horizon, I knew it was critically important to have someone in place to step in and manage the operations of VYT,” said Cooper. “There is no one I trust more than Leigh Ann to take the organization forward. And knowing that she is a VYT alumna is even more significant as it speaks volumes to our mission of preparing our participants for future leadership roles.”
Dolan was the Queen of Hearts in VYT’s 1991 production of the musical, “Alice in Wonderland.” She is a graduate of ASU's Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Telecommunications with a degree in Broadcast Journalism and a support in Theatre, receiving her MBA in Marketing from the University of Phoenix. She is a multiple Emmy-winning television and film producer with an extensive background in non-profit arts.
“I love VYT for what it has done for the thousands of children that have stepped on its stages – including me. I am so proud to be a part of this Phoenix institution, and I am excited to continue the magic,” said Dolan.
One of VYT’s hallmarks is its commitment to outreach, diversity, and inclusivity in its programs. By embracing all walks of life, VYT fosters lifelong relationships with children and their families through programs that encourage them to dream and grow in ways they never imagined. Cooper was and is a huge champion for the children of our community, committed to giving every child an opportunity to learn and grow.
“Valley Youth Theatre wants to make sure every child has a positive experience when they walk through our doors. Our goal when we started, and what it continues to be to this day, is for children to learn what it means to take risks, manage their time, communicate, help build their self-esteem, and ultimately, inspiring them to be the best they can be,” said Cooper. “I leave this organization with pride in all that has been accomplished and knowing the future is secure with leaders like Leigh Ann and the commitment of our volunteer board of directors at the helm.”
Cooper, and his wife Karol, who retired as resident costume designer in late 2024 from Valley Youth Theatre, reside in Phoenix and will continue to support Valley Youth Theatre.
VYT’s annual season showcases the incredible talent and creativity of its young performers. For more information, visit www.vyt.com.
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