About Our After School Program

This course teaches the essentials of acting for stage and film, with students following a shared curriculum. Key elements include:

• In-class shoots to learn the technical side of film acting.

• Scene work to practice core acting techniques.

• Non-traditional classes to help break personal barriers and create authentic characters.

• Video camera practice to prepare for film and TV shoots.

• Performing in a filmed scene, which is edited and screened for an audience.

• Extra time for productions, scheduled as needed.

Building on the introductory acting program, students take part in a more detailed production. They may shoot the final project on location or in a closed set at the academy. Classes introduce acting techniques for the camera but mainly focus on rehearsing and preparing for the final project.

• 26-week production workshops with short scenes shot during class.

• Final project filmed and screened for cast, crew, family, and guests.

From classics like Oliver Twist, The Sound of Music, and The Wizard of Oz to animated favorites like Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat and A Charlie Brown Christmas, musical theatre has a rich history on stage and screen. YouthScore Playhouse offers a space where students can develop their craft and improve their reading skills. Some workshops are led by professional actors.

In this camp, students learn key skills for musical theatre, including:

• Dance, voice, acting, and performance.

• Script and song interpretation for auditions, stage, and film.

• Professional presentation in performance situations.

Students are treated as unique parts of the ensemble, regardless of their singing and movement levels, and will explore essential skills and ethics for a career in acting.

 Grade 5 Drama teaches students about theatre, including basic acting techniques and theatre terms. The class helps students:

• Work in groups, think critically, and use their imagination.

• Develop focus, self-confidence, and social skills.

• Solve problems and discover new ideas.

Students are expected to do their best to achieve success individually and as a group.

Semester One

• Acting I (Meisner I)

• Ballet I

• Jazz & Theatre Dance I

• Music Theory

• History of Musical Theatre

• Voice Studio Lab

• Song Interpretation

• Performance Lab I

• Voice and Speech I

• Showcase Practicum I

Semester Two

•  Acting II (Meisner II)

•  Voice & Speech II

•  Musical Theatre Scene Study

•  Improvisation

•  Ballet II

•  Jazz & Theatre Dance II

•  Tap I

•  Stage & Film Combat

•  Professional Preparation (The Business of Acting)

•  Audition Technique

•  Pop Rock I

•  Comedy

•  Ballroom Dance

•  Performance Lab II

•  Showcase Practicum II

Scene into song: students work on scenes with both music and text from a variety of musical theatre pieces. Scenes are generally taken from contemporary musical theatre and may include selections from shows such as glee the musical and more. 

Acting Technique

Students learn essential tools for strong storytelling, including:

• Given circumstances

• Objectives

• Obstacles

• Tactics

• Action

These concepts are taught through theatre games, exercises, and practical performance analysis. The environment is nurturing and safe, encouraging exploration and making acting fun.

 Musical Theatre Camp:

Students explore the rich history of musical theatre, from classics of the “Golden Age” like Oliver Twist, The Sound of Music, and The Wizard of Oz to animated favorites like Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat and A Charlie Brown Christmas.​⬤

Adapting Literature Objectives:

• Use techniques to adapt fairy tales for performance.

• Adapt poetry for performance.

• Learn basic drama terminology.

• Demonstrate appropriate audience behavior.

Activities Include:

• Fairy Tale Tableaux

• Poetry Activities

• Creating a Scene from a Dialogue Line

Assessment:

Students will be evaluated on group performance, participation, and effort.