In 1952, Bill Harper saw the need in Evanston for a theatrical experience for high school students who did not otherwise have a chance to participate in plays. His mission to include all youth who wished to participate continues to match the YMCA's vision to welcome all in the community. 

The 25 performers in the first ever Brillianteen show premiered in the basement of the McGaw YMCA.  Program participation has since grown ten-fold, regularly featuring over 150 performers and over 50 crew members.  Brillianteen shows now open to sold-out crowds in the auditorium at Evanston's King Lab Middle School.  Brillianteen alumni now number in the thousands, and include lead players in Broadway musicals and operas around the world.

Beginning in the fall of 2005, Brillianteen Junior extended the Brillianteen tradition to include local middle school students. As in Brillianteen, all students who audition for Brillianteen Junior productions are cast.