We appreciate the interest already expressed in taking classes with us. We won’t be able to formalize our program until construction is finished, but here’s a simple breakdown of our plan. We can’t accept registrations at present but we’ll let you know as soon as the space is ready for us.

1. The Professional Studio [beginning August 2008] The central focus of First Stage is the education of the actor and theatre artist through performance and professional production work. The selection of casts and crews will be guided by the desire to match young and emerging artists with more seasoned professionals. This “first stage” of actor and artist development will be, in effect, an internship/residency in theatre art. Our plan is to produce six plays each season.

2. Audience Education [in conjunction with our first production later this Summer] An important and complimentary aspect of the Professional Studio is the development and enrichment of the audience member. Through “talk-backs” and seminars with actors and artists as well as special lectures on theatre history, acting styles and theatre literature, audience members will gain a deeper appreciation of this art form.

3. Semester Classes [beginning Fall 2008] Nine-week sessions in acting, scene study, voice and speech, movement, improvisation and technical theatre will be available to both young people and adults.

4. Weekend Intensives [beginning Fall 2008] Weekend (10 hour) special classes in specific acting techniques, audition preparation, dance for the stage, and theatrical styles will be offered throughout the year.

5. Summer Institute [July/August 2009] Two two-week sessions geared specifically for high school age actors will offer them a cohesive and intensive program that develops their talent and hones their acting skills.