Sequim Gazette staff
Olympic Theatre Arts offers three summer theater workshops designed for youths of ages 6-19.
The programs cover a range of material guided by professional instructors in the field. Each workshop allow students to showcase their skills with performances at the conclusion of the session.
Summer Session I, open to ages 8-18, will focus on “Production Techniques,” exploring the collaborative nature of live theater with exercises and games designed to teach acting on live stage. Instruction will explore methods of interacting with other cast members, developing character studies, and finding the strength behind the voice to tell the story. This workshop will run from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. June 20-24.
OTA’s newly adopted “Musical Theatre Intensive for Teens” will be offered for two weeks, from July 25-Aug. 5, and is open to youth ages 12-19. Pianist/composer Linda Dowdell has joined forces with OTA to present this two-week musical theater workshop targeting dedicated, disciplined and energetic performers interested in exploring a career in musical theatre.
Students will be guided by Dowdell and other professionals, including Broadway singer/actress Elinore O’Connell and dancer/performer Annuel Preston, to help them discover and fine tune their talents.
“We are truly delighted to be able to reach out to the numerous young talented performers on the peninsula with this incredible team of professionals,” OTA general manager Carol Willis said. “The show that they will be able to forge within two weeks is beyond impressive.”
Lastly, Summer Session II, open to ages 6-18, runs for two weeks, Aug. 8-18. This session allows students to be cast and perform in a licensed show (show selection to be announced). The workshop will finish with two performances on Saturday, Aug. 19. Participants will prepare and audition on Monday, Aug. 8, and the show will be cast the next day, followed by rehearsals leading up to the performance dates.
The workshop is 9 a.m.-3 p.m. daily and also will include various exercises and games designed to teach the craft of live theater and to enhance the show. Students also will be participating in the behind-the-scenes work involved in creating a production by helping with such elements as set design, costuming, and props.
All workshops are at Olympic Theatre Arts Center, 414 N. Sequim Ave. Lunches are included.
Registration forms are available online at olympictheatrearts.org or by calling or visiting the OTA business office, open from 1-5 p.m. Monday-Friday or by calling 683-7326.
Tuition assistance is available on an as-needed basis.
