VENTURA, CA. – The devastating earthquake and tsunami that recently struck Japan shocked and touched people throughout the world. To some, the tragedy might seem a world away, but a Ventura youth theater company is preparing to remind local residents that they are all part of "one world" by holding a performance to benefit quake victims.

Performance Theatre for Young Artists will present "One World," a musical theater variety show, at 6 p.m. April 23 at the Poinsettia Pavilion, 3451 Foothill Road in Ventura. All proceeds will go directly to aid earthquake survivors through Direct Relief International. Founded in 1948, the Santa Barbara-based organization has helped people throughout the world who have endured tremendous hardships improve the quality of their lives. In addition to offering health care for impoverished people, the group has responded to emergencies such as the earthquake and cholera outbreak in Haiti, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, and the Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami.

"I was horrified at what happened in Japan and felt so much empathy for the people," said PTYA Director Marta Dewey."I really wanted to do something to help. I think the show will be a great way for kids in our group to help others in need, no matter where they live in the world. It reminds us that we are all just one race –the Human race." Dewey said she researched Direct Relief International and chose it because all of the money donated will go directly to the cause.

With cast members ranging from age 8 to 20, the benefit will feature musical theater numbers and inspirational songs, as well as acting and dance routines. Two PTYA pianists, both Japanese Americans, will also perform. Performers will include current and past PTYA cast members and students in Dewey's voice classes. "Performers and their parents are really excited about the benefit and the people it will help," she said. "Our main goal is to raise as much money as we can to donate to the relief efforts, and treat our audience to a wonderful show."

Suggested donations at the door are $15 for adults and $12 for seniors and children 17 and younger. People who want to donate to the cause but cannot attend the performance can make a donation at the PTYA web site, www.ptya.org.

A California Nonprofit Organization, PTYA provides education, training and experience to young Ventura County artists by offering workshops, and community theater and other performance activities. Through these programs, children learn and develop acting, singing, dance, literacy, technical theater and performance skills. They also build their self-esteem and self-confidence, and experience in teamwork, decision-making, communication and other important life skills. PTYA's office, rehearsal rooms, stage, music room, and set and costume shops are located at 3451 Foothill Road, Ventura, CA 93003.

For more information about PTYA, go to www.ptya.org or call (805) 653-1962. For more information about Direct Relief International, go to www.directrelief.org or call (805) 964-4767.