YOUTH CLASSES

Whether your child loves to jump in the spotlight or surrenders to their imaginations, our youth classes are designed to ignite their creative souls. Using age-appropriate Shakespeare games, songs, monologues and scenes, students will have fun while learning the fundamentals of acting. Each class culminates in a final presentation for family and friends.

SHAKESPEARE & ME!: For ages 2-4 & their families
Parents & Grandparents are welcome to play in our new class designed just for families. This class, dreamed up by our own professional actor/moms, will foster creativity and provide a place where parents and kids can be silly together. Each class will focus on the sharing of a different children's story and include a make & take!

Instructor: Monica Tamberello
Dates: Tuesdays, March 25 – April 29, 2008
Time: 10:00am - 11:15am
Fee: $60 per child, siblings under 2-years-old free

Benefit from our teaching artists as they lead you deeper into the study of Shakespeare text and character. Stretch your muscles and learn how professional actors approach the Bard. Class culminates in a final presentation for family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is a typical class size?
A: Our classes typically range from 5-15 students depending on the time of the year. Silly Shakespeare, grades pre-K-1, has a cap of 16 students while the other classes have a cap of 20.

Q: How many instructors per class?
A: We provide two professional acting instructors per class.

Q: Tell me more about "theater games."
A: A theater game is an exercise, either physical or mental, designed to teach a skill that can be used on stage (and in real life, too!). There are countless different games that teach such skills as mental focus, ensemble, healthy vocal production, physical awareness, and emotional connection to your text (text is the Shakespeare word for your lines). Students learn advanced concepts and overcome personal hurdles while laughing and creating.

Q: Is there a final show?
A: Yes, with the exception of Shakespeare & Me, all classes have a final "scene sharing" or workshop presentation. It is a celebration of the growth each student has made in their acting journey. We do not use costumes. Instead, we focus on the student and what they can communicate with their voices, bodies and emotions. On the second to the last day of class we will send your child home with a letter detailing the time of the presentation.

Q: What type of clothing is recommended?
A: Please wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing and sturdy athletic shoes.

Q: Can kids really do Shakespeare?
A: YES! Kids already understand Shakespeare on an emotional level because they are less closed off (or in control) of their emotions than adults. Teachers do not start the session with a pre-conceived play in mind, rather they choose the material based upon the skills and interests of their particular class.

Q: May I watch the class?
A: We do not permit parents to watch acting classes. We have discovered that when parents are in the room the younger students who are labeled "shy" always cling to their parent. Most of the time, these same students thrive when there is not a parent in the room. Non "shy" students tend to try and perform for their parent's approval instead of focusing on the instructor. This limits their ability to fully participate.

THE BIG QUESTION: What almost every parent asks.

Q: Can my child be moved up a grade level?
A: Many parents, who know and love the sheer joy and brilliance of their children, would like for their child to be moved into a class with older students. While we respect this view, we simply do not move children up a grade level. We put a great deal of energy and thought in the composition and curriculums of our classes and believe that we provide a quality experience for all children.