An invitation to dream: Young Ambassadors take audiences on a joyful journey in Imagine

Young Ambassadors from Brigham Young University brought energy, emotion and a message of hope to campus last weekend with its show Imagine, a performance blending pop, Broadway and cinematic moments into a single, cohesive experience.

The 90-minute show was built around three themes adventure, fantasy and celebration and invited audiences to reflect on what it means to dream, grow and find joy.

Carlie McCleary, a BYU senior, described the show as an escape from everyday stress.

Its kind of like a cruise ship show just a really fun, energetic time for the audience to sit back, relax and not stress about their life, McCleary said.

But behind the high-energy numbers and polished choreography is a deeper purpose. For many performers, the groups mission to represent Jesus Christ through performance is central to the experience.

Senior Tanner Reeve said that mission is what drew him to audition in the first place.

Young Ambassadors whole mission is to share the gospel of Jesus Christ through song and dance, Reeve said. Hearing that testimony at auditions sealed the deal for me.

That purpose extends far beyond campus. Reeve recalled performing in China and later meeting a BYU student who had seen the show there and ultimately chose to attend the university and join the Church.

The Young Ambassadors helped him find Christ, Reeve said.

For performers like Harley Crabb, the impact came in quieter, more personal ways.

As a member of the groups singer track, Crabb said the experience has strengthened her discipleship and changed her perspective on performing.

Rather than changing the world, were trying to change one world, Crabb said, recalling a conversation with an audience member. One person might need to feel that joy or see that light.

That idea is reflected in the structure of Imagine. Crabb connected each section of the show to a spiritual principle: pressing forward, holding on to hope and developing love for others.

Even without explicitly religious messaging, performers say those themes shine through in the way they connect with audiences.

We may not always be able to say it directly, McCleary said, but we can show Christs love through the way we perform.

The production itself is no small undertaking. Performers rehearse up to 16 hours a week, in addition to an intensive two-week boot camp at the start of the year.

Each cast member learns multiple numbers, often balancing both singing and dancing roles.

Despite the demanding schedule, the groups close-knit culture stands out most.

This team is a family, Reeve said. We know how to work together and we have each others backs.

From backstage moments to international tours, the experience leaves a lasting impact on members. For many, it becomes a defining part of their time at BYU.

I cant imagine my time at BYU without Young Ambassadors, Reeve said. Its been a source of deep friendship and a creative outlet.

Through Imagine, the group hopes audiences left with something simple but meaningful: a sense of joy, connection and a reminder to keep dreaming.