This year’s Little Theatre of Tuscarawas County’s Student Workshops will be held at the Theatre, 466 Carrie Ave., N.W., New Philadelphia, Mondays through Fridays, July 16-20 and July 23-27.
Introduction to Acting classes for ages seven to 11 are intended to challenge a child’s imagination. Meeting from 6 to 8:30 p.m., students will learn how to create a character, skills in movement, vocal dynamics, dance, script interpretation and improvisation. The goal is for each student to gain confidence, a new creative outlet and be audition ready. Studies will culminate in a performance for family and friends Friday evening at 7 p.m.
In the Acting Class for ages 12-18, held from 6 to 9 p.m., students will tackle improvisation and scripted work interactively. Instructors will lead them to discover how to portray a character with voice and movement, while learning how to interpret the playwright’s textual clues. Stage combat, dance, makeup and more are covered. This group’s performance will be Friday at 7 p.m.
Both classes are meant to be repeated as new course work is offered each year. All students must have basic reading skills. The workshop is $55 before June 28 and $65 after. Registration includes a T-shirt, and checks must be received before students are considered enrolled. Students in need of financial assistance will be able to apply for the Karen Huffman Children’s Workshop Memorial Scholarship, which will assist a total of four students in attending the workshop at no cost. The Scholarship and Registration forms may be found on The Little Theatre’s website. Checks and registration may be mailed to Director, Pat Potter at 1462 Pleasant Hill Rd. NW, New Philadelphia. For questions call 330-268-3703.
Potter emphasized that classes are taught by theatre professionals. A select group of theatrically seasoned college and high school students volunteer to assist and help demonstrate all aspects of theatre. Potter said, “It’s always so very exciting to watch the children learn so quickly, and to be able to put everything they have learned into practice. Each child has the opportunity to excel in a variety of creative parts that encompass theatre. They learn skills that help them become more comfortable at being in front of people.”