The Children’s Theatre Institute will expand its stage presence.

Two fall productions will feature youth in a new program, said James Leagre, artistic director.

Phase one of the program includes the Elementary Repertory Company for youth in grades 4 and 5 and the Jr. High Repertory Company for youth in grades 6, 7 and 8.

“Based on the success of From Story to Stage Summer Camp programs, CTI decided to create an ongoing program for youth who have discovered or are searching for their own individual gifts and talents,” Leagre said. “The new repertory company is designed to create an atmosphere of exploration, learning, rehearsing and performing in a fully produced production.”

Children can participate in free classes Sept. 19 at the institute, which is located inside the Junior Achievement of Central Indiana building, 7435 N. Keystone Ave.

The elementary class will be 9 to 10 a.m., and the junior high class from 11 a.m. to noon.

Participants can watch the first production of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs of The Black Forest” at 10 a.m.

Auditions for “Vaudeville’s My Home” will take place after the junior high class.