In response to riots in Los Angeles, Theater Quest was created to galvanize neighborhoods and to give older youth a way to channel their talents. Ethnically and culturally diverse youth meet 5 nights a week, and on Saturdays for 4 hours, to produce a classical play. "Concentrating on classical plays provides a context in which to debate big issues and themes such as class, race, love and suicide," says Artistic Director Lauralee Mannes. Teens interview prior to joining the program to review their thoughts about who they are and what they want to do. Once in the program, they can focus on acting or backstage technical work. Community volunteers offer assistance with sets, make-up, choreography and acting and serve as mentors to the young people. Recently, the troupe staged a production of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet at The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC. "The aim is not to train young people for the performing arts, but for them to see that there is another economy that can drive a life-inspiration, imagination and creativity," adds Mannes.