Youth & Teen Classes |
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| Classes start in September. Register now! |
Orlando Shakes' Youth Classes focus on skill sets that benefit students in everyday life as well as on stage. Our classes celebrate the process of learning, experimenting, taking risks and challenging expectations.
After each class, students are given a homework sheet detailing what was learned that day and assignments for the following week, allowing you to track your child's progress and reinforce skills taught in class.
All sessions culminate in a presentation for friends and family on the last day. See what your children have learned! Join us for continental breakfast at 9:00 a.m. while the students have a final rehearsal. Presentations begin at 10:15 a.m.
Call the Education Department at 407-447-1700 ext. 208 for more information.
For Beginners
Intro to Acting
- WHEN:
Tuesday, March 6 from 6:30-8:30pm
FEE: $35
This workshop is for beginning actors ages eighteen to ninety-nine. Students will be led in basic warm-up exercises and ensemble theatre games. No experience necessary! Come play with us! Please wear comfortable clothing! [register now]
Spring Classes
- Saturdays, March 10 - April 14 (6 weeks)
- Time: 9:00 - 10:45 a.m.
- Fee: $140
Dress Up! Act Up!: Pre-K - Kindergarten
Where would Cinderella have been without her glass slipper? Use costumes and creative movement to tell your own story. [register now]
Puppet Theater: Grades 1 - 2
Where was Kermit born? In the puppet master's mind! Design and create your own puppets to tell classic stories like Alice in Wonderland and Peter Pan. [register now]
Sci-Fi Smackdown: Grades 3 - 6
Duel like a Hogwarts wizard! Battle like a Jedi! Smash like a Power Ranger! Learn beginning stage fighting (with all-foam weapons). [register now]
Auditioning: Grades 7 - 12
If you want to get cast, first you have to audition! Each student will rehearse and perform an audition monologue chosen just for him or her and learn how to succeed at an audition. [register now]
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.
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: All classes have a final "open class" 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 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.
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.
Auditing: Students may audit a class for a $10 fee, which will be deducted from the class fee upon joining.
Class Refund Policy: A full refund, minus a $15 registration fee, is available if you cancel more than 14 days from the start of class. An 80% refund will be issued after the first scheduled class ONLY. You must call the Education Department (ext. 208) before the second scheduled class to drop and receive your refund. There will be no refunds given after the second class.
