Yuma Community Theater (YCT) began performing in Yuma during 1980 when it was founded by its original members. YCT incorporated in 1983 as a 501c(3) with the IRS in the State of Arizona. According to the State records it is the oldest continually operating community organization in Arizona. YCT is governed by a nine-member Board of Directors.  The Board meets on the first Monday of every month at the Yuma Community Food Bank.

YCT markets its productions throughout Yuma county to all ages and economic groups by way of public service announcements, newsletters and emails to its members, advertising in newspapers, magazines and radio, as well as public appearances donated by the media. All actors and members are volunteers from the local community who are interested in helping preserve and promote live theater in Yuma, Arizona. Audiences are comprised of a diverse mix of residents and seasonal visitors who enjoy seeing their friends and neighbors present live, local theater productions.

Per its by-laws, YCT is a volunteer group. It has no paid staff nor are any members of YCT remunerated for their time, efforts and talents they bring to the organization. Musical productions will sometimes incur the cost of hiring a pianist or musicians for rehearsals and performances.

Each person who participates as an actor or crew member must join Yuma Community Theater to be covered by its insurance policy. The annual member dues are $10. The ticket price for YCT shows is $20 for Prefered Reserved Seating and $10 for General Reserved. Season tickets are $50 for all four shows, Prefered Seating.

In recent years, Yuma Community Theater revitalized itself by increasing its membership and presenting multiple productions each year. During its 2009-2010 season, YCT will present four productions at Gila Ridge High School Performing Arts Center, with cast and crew of well over 200 members, and a total of 32 performances to an anticipated 10,000 audience members.  YCT has rehearsal spaces and some set storage at 301 S. Main Street.

Yuma Community Theater has the following mission:

1. To produce works of theater,
2. To promote community interest and support of livetheater, and,
3. To provide opportunities for members to participate in various phases of theater work

YCT has three Honorary Lifetime Members: Bob McCain, Lee Rappoport, and Evelyn Smith.