Modjeska Playhouse

Education Philosophy

Modjeska Playhouse focuses its acting program on process over product. This means we will not simply put our students in a play and say “act,” instead, we focus on the techniques and exercises used to become an actor. We believe theatre arts training is good for those who wish to perform on stage as well as those who wish to improve self-esteem, teamwork, or simply want to have fun. Our curriculum has been designed to guide our students in a manner that will help them to continue to grow as artists and people.

Our programs consist of two yearlong levels where students stay with the same class for three ten-week sessions culminating in an end of year performance. After completion of the second year and with a recommendation from teachers, the students may enter into the Advanced Training Program.

Modjeska Playhouse Instructors

Modjeska Playhouse instructors consist of industry professionals that share a love of theatre and have a desire to share their passion with others. We understand that not all performers make great teachers, so the theatre company is very selective when choosing teachers to teach classes. The Co-Artistic Directors and/or Education Director work very closely with instructors to continue to develop curriculum and student direction.

Acting Programs for Kids (ages 7 to 12 and 13 to 17)

Level 1
This is a beginning class where students will explore the world of storytelling, listening and vocal/physical expression through theatre games and exercises. Students will learn about character development and how to create honest “moment to moment” reaction and interaction on stage, while increasing self-esteem, and developing a sense of ensemble.

Level 2
Students continue to explore ensemble work, more focused character development techniques, and explore more advanced forms of dramatic narrative. Theatre games and scene work are the foundation of Level 2. The ability to break down scenes, create well-rounded characters and achieve “moment to moment” reactions are the goals of all Level 2 actors.

Advanced Training Program (ages 13 to 17)

The Advanced Training Program is focused on the techniques professional actors use to further understand the process of becoming a well-rounded actor. Mask work, improvisation, movement, and voice work are used to broaden the abilities of the student. Teens who have completed at least two years in the program or have been recommended by an instructor may select from the advanced training classes.

Improvisation
Designed to teach creativity, spontaneity, and storytelling. This class teaches improvisational theatre with games and scene work. Narrative skills and creating spontaneous, well-rounded characters are the initial focus of the class. As the students progress, focus turns to longer forms of improvisational theatre with the intent of performing full length improvised plays in several theatrical and movie styles.

Musical Theatre
This course explores the world of a musical theatre performer. Students work on character development, interpretation, vocal techniques and movement necessary to perform in Musical Theatre. Students work on both ensemble and solo work.

Writing for the Stage
This is a beginner’s course in constructing plays for the stage. Focus is on Story Spine, scene construction, creating interesting characters, dialog, plot and basic formatting. Class will culminate in students writing an original workshop piece to be performed at Modjeska Playhouse.

Junior Company (ages 10 to 12 and 13 to 17)

This is a program for committed students who wish to perform a fully produced play in a professional setting. Students must have been in Modjeska Playhouse conservatory for teo years and must audition for the Junior Company. This is a yearlong commitment where students run the show! Young theatre artists from the Mentorship program will act as designers, technical artists, and directors to produce a show consisting of the actors from the Junior Company. This happens all under the watchful eye of a member of Modjeska Playhouse Resident Company of Artists.

Mentorship Program (ages 13 to 17)

This is a program for young artists who wish to experience what it is like to work in a professional theatre setting. Students must be recommended by an instructor. Students are paired with an artist working in their chosen field. Directors, lighting designers, set designers, costumers, Stage Managers and more will be available to work with the student. Students will have the opportunity to attend rehearsals, production meetings and performances as they learn from their Mentors. Students at the completion of the program may have the opportunity to work alongside the Junior Company in a fully produced student production.

Adult Acting Classes (ages 18 +)

Our adult classes are a combination of beginning, intermediate and advanced classes. We understand that some adults will want to take classes from Modjeska Playhouse because it is a fun way to spend an evening or because they have an interest in theatre, but have no intentions on doing it professionally. On the other hand, we hope Modjeska Playhouse will become a training ground for professional artists, as well. Some of our students will have the opportunity to perform in Modjeska Playhouse Mainstage productions and may become Artists in Residence. Adult classes include: Acting, Improvisation, Musical Theatre, Writing for the Stage, and Technical Theatre.