This yearlong introductory course is designed to provide young performers with a strong foundation in the core principles of acting. Students will explore the essential tools of the actor—the body, voice, and imagination—through age-appropriate exercises, games, and scene work that emphasize creativity, collaboration, and confidence.

Throughout the class, students will be introduced to technical concepts such as vocal projection, stage directions, character objectives, and blocking, while also developing their ability to express authentic emotions and interact meaningfully with scene partners. Through guided improvisation, character-building activities, and rehearsal-based learning, students will grow in their understanding of storytelling, ensemble work, and performance presence.

The course is structured in three progressive units:
Unit 1: Actor’s tools and stage confidence
Unit 2: Character development and scene work
Unit 3: Ensemble performance and reflective application

Students will have two special opportunities to share their progress with family during our informal “Family Night: Inside the Studio” events, held at the end of each semester (December and May). These evenings are designed to let families step into the studio and see firsthand what their student has been learning and experiencing each week, and to provide a celebratory atmosphere for students to showcase their growth and skills.

Class Objectives:

1. Use their voice effectively with clear articulation, projection, and vocal variety
2. Navigate the stage confidently using basic blocking and stage directions
3. Create believable characters by identifying their objectives, motivation, and tactics
4. Express emotion authentically through facial expressions, body language, and improvised reaction
5. Collaborate within an ensemble to build and perform scenes with shared focus and timing
6. Understand and apply theatrical terms such as cue, beat, transition, and stage picture
7. Reflect on their acting growth and apply feedback during rehearsal and performance
8. Rehearse and perform short scenes and group work with confidence, culminating in a final class presentation

Instructional Tone: Playful, exploratory, and confidence-building
Activities: Drama games, creative movement, expressive exercises, simple scene work
Skills Focus: Vocal projection, stage directions, expression, teamwork, basic objectives
Performance Readiness: Scripted or guided performance with flexible memorization, shared during informal “"Inside The Studio"” events

Aligned National Core Arts Standards (Theatre):
Creating:
TH:Cr1.1 — Generate and conceptualize ideas for improvisation and character development
TH:Cr2.1 — Organize and develop ideas for scripted and improvised scenes
TH:Cr3.1 — Refine and complete rehearsal and performance of scenes
Performing:
TH:Pr4.1 — Analyze and interpret scripted and improvised scenes for performance
TH:Pr5.1 — Develop and refine acting techniques such as voice, movement, and characterization
TH:Pr6.1 — Convey meaning through acting choices and ensemble work
Responding:
TH:Re7.1 — Perceive and analyze theatrical work including peer performances
TH:Re8.1 — Interpret intent and meaning in theatrical work
TH:Re9.1 — Apply criteria to evaluate theatrical performances
Connecting:
TH:Cn10.1 — Synthesize personal experiences to create and understand theatrical work
TH:Cn11.1 — Relate theatrical works to social, cultural, and historical contexts