What to Expect: Early Childhood
Hello friends! My name is Ms. A and I’d like to personally invite you to come learn and play with me on Tuesday morning in Encore’s Early Childhood theatre classes!
When you first arrive, you can take off your shoes and put them in the shoe cubbies outside the classroom door. When you’re all ready, come inside and sit around our colorful mat on the floor!
I like to start each class with a good morning song and stretch. We might use scarves or batons to help us reach, and the colors are so fun! This way we can all get warmed up and ready for a great day!
To make class fun and exciting, I like to read interactive stories where you can touch an animals fuzzy tail or hear the sound of a train! I like to share my favorite sounds and movements and learn from the class what sounds and sights they enjoy.
It can be fun to create with our hands, so some days we might build a castle out of blocks or do an art project!
Do you like to sing and dance? Me too! I’ll teach you how to use rhythm sticks to tap out the rhythm to some of my favorite songs like “B-I-N-G-O” and “The Wheels on the Bus!”
When class is all finished, we’ll say “see you next time” to each other with a special Encore Goodbye song. I’ll even give you a sticker as a prize to say thank you for coming and spending your Tuesday with me! 🙂
You can sign up for class in advance on our website or in person with our Registrar when you arrive. We have monthly subscriptions and drop-in options available. I can’t wait to see you all on Tuesday mornings!
Early Childhood Classes for Ages 6 months – 2 years
Share, grow and learn with your child during this special time in their life! Encore’s parent/caregiver classes will promote your child’s development and provide exciting enrichment. Through creative play, movement and music your child will sharpen critical social and physical skills in a fun and imaginative environment.
Classes are held Tuesday mornings, 10:30 am – 11:15 am
Monthly registration preferred: $10 per class
Walk in rate: $15
Classes begin Tuesday, September 10, 2019.
Note:
In special circumstances, siblings up to the age of 5 may be permitted to join class for the usual walk-in rate of $15.
Location: Encore’s Main Campus
Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian. Blog contribution by A.K. Nell. Edited by Shannon McCarthy.
Sisterhood, Choreography, and Fun: Frozen Jr. Director Sarah Conrad
As temperatures begin to drop (ever so slowly), leaves start to turn, and pumpkin spice everything pop up in stores, you probably have autumn on the brain, friends. This #TechTuesday, however, we at Encore have something a little chillier on our minds…thoroughly Frozen to be precise. Today we’re pumped to chat with the queen of princess shows herself, director and choreographer, Sarah Conrad! As an Encore alumna of both the stage and the director’s chair, Sarah has lots of wonderful experience to draw upon as she tackles the first show of our 2019/2020 Homecoming Season, Disney’s Frozen Jr.
Encore: In your own words, please share a summary of Frozen Jr.
Sarah: Frozen Jr. is the story of two sisters who discover the meaning of love when Elsa’s ice powers get out of control and Anna comes to her rescue. There are fun songs and dance numbers for all of the characters in the show who interact with each other in different “seasons” as they progress from summer to winter back to summer. From Olaf, a talking snowman, to Sven, a sidekick reindeer, to the Oaken family in their Sauna, to the Hidden Folk who guide Kristoff’s way, to the townspeople who are always along for the ride, the show is filled with plenty of characters who work together to tell the story as Anna finds her sister and everyone makes it back to Arendelle.
Legally Blonde: The Musical, 2013
Encore: What has been your favorite moment directing the show?
Sarah: My favorite moment directing the show so far has been watching the cast members faces light up when we build levels into a song or dance or scene. Hearing them say, “Wow this dance (etc) is so fun!” makes my director heart smile. 🙂
A Little Princess, 2017
Encore: What is your creative process when you choreograph a number?
Sarah: When I choreograph a dance number, my creative process involves many pieces. I start by listening to the song a few times, closing my eyes to think of movements that I feel with the music. Then I go chunk by chunk, dancing out different ideas until I come up with the right moves for each section of music. Having a large number of people in some of the dances can be tricky, but I always enjoy figuring out ways to have them dance with partners and in formations! And as I tell my cast members, always write choreography in pencil, in case I decide to change something! Choreographing a dance number for a big group can be a challenge when it is all in my head, so having real people to work with helps bring my ideas to life and shows me places where we can adjust moves to work best with the whole group!
Snow White, 2016
Encore: What should the audience look forward to most?
Sarah: The audience can look forward to lots of fun dances and exciting magical moments (created through the wonderful technical side of the show) in addition to characters they will feel a connection with. There are a number of catchy songs so you’ll be sure to have Frozen music running through your head days after you see the show!
The Wizard of Oz, 2011
Encore: If you had to describe your cast in three words or phrases, what would they be?
Sarah: Energetic, eager, and happy to be a part of the show!
Thank you for giving us a glimpse into your creative process and this wonderfully fun show, Sarah! Join Sarah’s energetic and talented cast as they take the stage for a musical and magical adventure, this October!
Performance Dates and Showtimes:
Friday, October 11, 2019 at 7:30pm
Saturday, October 12 and 19, 2019 at 11am and 3pm
Sunday, October 13 and 20, 2019 at 3pm
Thursday, October 17, 2019 at 7:30
Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian and Larry McClemons. Blog contribution by Aileen Pangan Christian.
What’s In My Rehearsal Bag: Lucy R.
A festive #FrontRowFriday to all of you, friends! We’ve got a special Front Row treat for you heading into the long weekend. Perhaps you’ve seen her in some of our past Musical Theatre Intensive or summer musical productions. This fall, you’ll have a chance to take in Lucy Rocchio’s performance as Queen of Arendelle in Encore’s production of Disney’s Frozen Jr. With all of her experience, we can’t wait to hear Lucy’s tips for building the perfect rehearsal bag!
Hello all! My name is Lucy Rocchio. I’m a senior at T.C. Williams High School and I’m going to be playing Elsa in Encore’s production of Disney’s Frozen Jr. this fall! I’m beyond ecstatic to be a part of this show and can’t wait for everyone to come see it.
As a matter of fact, this is the first regular season show I’ve done with Encore. Previously I’ve been involved in Encore’s Musical Theatre Intensive (MTI) program where I did The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Godspell, and James and the Giant Peach.
I’ve also participated in summer shows with Encore like Mary Poppins, The Music Man, and Seussical.
Clearly I’ve always been ready to play a princess.
Dress your best for our Frozen Princess Ball on October 19th!
This makes Frozen Jr. my seventh show with Encore, which I’m so excited about! I have done 13 other plays and musicals with my schools and with a local symphony. The more shows you do, the more you learn from creative staff and other performers sharing their ideas and experience.
Encore asked me to share what I have learned about getting ready for rehearsals. I’ve learned to always be early and never forget to have what you need in a rehearsal bag. It’s crucial to be prepared and to have your bag packed with all the necessities.
- First is the script. Without this item, I wouldn’t be able to follow along the important storytelling and learn my part.
- Second are pencils. Pencils are a must in order to write down blocking (stage directions) in your script and notes from your directors! Having one pencil is good, but having a bunch always comes in handy if one breaks or if a friend needs to borrow one.
- Third is a water bottle. I always make sure to grab a reusable water bottle and fill it up so when I’m at rehearsal and we do choreography or sing a song I can take refreshing sips to stay hydrated the whole time.
- Next is cough drops. Sounding hoarse is never fun, so if my throat feels dry or sore, I can just pop one in my mouth and keep going.
- Also, I always have a couple of snacks with me. Snacks are helpful whenever there’s a break to boost energy and give a pick-me-up. They help me stay energized, focused and are also super tasty. I usually bring peanut butter crackers and some type of fruit.
- Lastly, character shoes. While playing a queen I must be sure to have the proper shoes. Character shoes are perfect because they’re meant for the stage and are heeled so they give a bit more of that royal flare. It’s also great to start wearing them early on in rehearsals to practice how movement for the part will feel in heels.
I am excited to grab my bag on rehearsal days. It means I’m going to end the day on a fun note!
Thank you for sharing all of your royal wisdom, Lucy! We look forward to your performance as Elsa in Encore’s production of Frozen Jr. this October. We’re sure it’ll give everyone chills.
Performance Dates and Showtimes for Disney’s Frozen Jr.
Friday, October 11, 2019 at 7:30pm
Saturday, October 12 and 19, 2019 at 11am and 3pm
Sunday, October 13 and 20, 2019 at 3pm
Thursday, October 17, 2019 at 7:30pm
Photos by Aileen Pangan Christian and the Rocchio family.
Blog contribution by Lucy Rocchio. Edited by Shannon McCarthy.
5 Fabulous Fall Festivities Coming to Encore
Auditions “In Summer”
Encore welcomed over 110 students at auditions for Disney’s Frozen Jr, with over 20 coming out to interview for crew. With such a talented pool to choose from, our production team had quite the difficult job in front of them. They managed to narrow down the cast to around 40 participants, with around 15 students banding together to form the backstage and front of house crews.
Do you struggle with audition anxiety and want something to help you “Let it go?” Join us for a Pre-Audition Workshop! You’ll have a chance to meet some of the production team and learn what to expect in the audition room, so that, when the time comes, you’ll be ready to shine like the star you are.
Broadway Comes to Arlington
Encore was thrilled to welcome Angelina Mullins Prattes and Colt Prattes to host a special workshop for students at our Center Stage camp. These professional dancers are currently touring the country with Disney’s production of Aladdin. They took time from their busy schedule at the Kennedy Center to join us in Arlington for the teaching of some intense and fun choreography. Many thanks to both of these wonderful professionals!
Do you dream of strutting your stuff on a Broadway stage or delivering a heartbreaking soliloquy in a Shakespearean classic? No matter where your interests may lead, Encore has a theatre class for you. Fall registration is now open!
Join us at our free Open House event on Saturday, September 21st, 2019 from 10 AM – 12 PM. You’ll have the chance to meet members of Encore’s staff and teaching team, take a sample class, and get registered for the fall.
Making Magic at Stage Door
August brought the second round of Stage Door/Tech Camp productions to the final level: performance! Audiences were treated to several very fine performances of Disney’s Mary Poppins, Jr, complete with living statues, flying kites, dancing chimney sweeps, and more! Click here to check out some of the photos from the show.
Join us on Saturday, October 19th for the Frozen Princess Ball, following the 11 AM performance.
Are you ready for even more Disney magic? Single tickets for Disney’s Frozen Jr. are now on sale. With such a popular and beloved title, tickets are sure to go quickly, so be sure to get your best seats today!
Parting is Such Sweet Sorrow
This week marks the final sessions of #EncoreSummer 2019. From age 3 to 18, it’s been a joy working with each and every one of our summer camp students this year. Visit the blog for some throwback photos and sneak peeks into what a wonderful summer it’s been.
For students in grades K-5, the fun doesn’t have to end! Encore has over 10 holiday mini-camps running during our 2019/2020 season. This year we’ve expanded our offerings to accommodate both Arlington and Fairfax County Public Schools. We can’t wait to play the day away with all of you!
Members Are Worth Melting For
Do you love exclusive swag? Or maybe you’re a fan of getting first dibs on theatre seats and event access? What about saving money? If you said “Yes!” to any of the above, you’re just the right fit to become an Encore Season Member. Act now and receive a Member-exclusive discount to the Frozen Princess Ball!
Photos by Cindy Kane Photography, Aileen Pangan Christian, and Caolan Eder. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
Welcome to Marketing Apprentice Gloria!
Greetings and an energetic #FrontRowFriday to you all!
Today on the blog, we’re delighted to introduce one of Encore’s newest staff members: our 2019/2020 Marketing Apprentice, Ge Gloria Dong!
Encore: Briefly introduce yourself: what’s your past experience with theatre and/or marketing?
Gloria: My background is in arts management. I have worked at In Series as an Art Administration Intern. I helped with selling tickets and providing customer service through ticketing software. I assisted with planning events and community outreach. As a Director of Dance Teaching Affairs at Beijing Dance Theater Training Center, I worked on social media marketing and education services.
Encore: What’s the most memorable theatre experience you’ve ever had?
Gloria: I was involved in a series of dance showings as an Administrative Intern at City Dance School & Conservatory. I enjoyed working with different age groups. I got to know how to communicate with younger [students] and seniors and how to put them together. It was overwhelming but exciting to get everybody ready to be on the stage. I’ve learned to handle intense works and fix last-minute issues. And I was so impressed by our dancers’ performance. I think everything is worthy when you see those little stars shining the stage!
Encore: What led you to applying for Encore’s apprenticeship program?
Gloria: I found it so incredible for young folks to start their careers. I will get a chance to work with different departments and learn to manage multiple tasks. The more approaches to your interests, the easier to merge your passions with your future path. That’s why I am so into Encore Stage & Studio’s apprenticeship program.
Encore: What are you most excited about during your time with us?
Gloria: I would expect to seek more opportunities to: Bring in money, improve marketing skills, and learn more about stage management.
Gloria is definitely ready for Frozen Jr!
Encore: Which show are you most looking forward to in our 2019/2020 season?
Glora: Frozen Jr. and Narnia!
Thanks for sharing, Gloria! Expect to see our new Marketing Apprentice at Encore’s Main Campus, taking photos during education classes, helping at auditions, and assisting patrons at Front of House during our productions. We can already tell that it’s going to be a wonderful experience!
Photos supplied by Ge Gloria Dong. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
The Parents Speak: #EncoreSummer
A special #TechTuesday to all of our Encore fans out there. Keep the pumpkin spice at bay, because we’ve got two more weeks of glorious summer left! With camps specially tailored for ages 3 through 15, we’ve been having a blast so far this #EncoreSummer. Based on our feedback surveys, it seems safe to say that our campers and their parents are enjoying themselves too! Scroll down to check out some of the praises our parents have been singing (and please pardon our blush). ❤
Ages 3-5:
- She specifically mentioned that she learned how to “project,” which is “singing loud, but not yelling!” 😜
- [My student] became more independent and confident.
- My son now wants to participate next year, based solely on limited interaction with camp staff during drop offs and my daughter’s excitement about the camp.
My daughter was excited to go back every day!
Ages 5-9:
- [We chose Encore because of:] willingness to work with my child’s special needs, [their] ability to keep him engaged, opportunities for him to learn [and] expand his skills, all while having fun hours.
- [My student] came home from camp happy every day! She really enjoyed crafting the play with her peers.
- [My child] developed confidence and willingness to take risks…he also had the chance to work on his gross motor skills and following directions with the dance routines.
- This was my kiddo’s first experience with theater/drama camp & he loved it! He’s already asking to do another week (which we would if we could fit it with our vacation schedule).
The counselors knew my child and talked about their day at pick up.
The staff all seemed extremely nice, caring, engaged, and loving.
Ages 8-12:
- My daughter learned more flexibility and more about how the creative process works building up to the actual performance.
- She learned about the parts of a performance (rising action, falling action, etc.) and how to include them when she writes.
- I couldn’t be more pleased with the accommodations and the above-and-beyond efforts made by the staff to help my daughter find a place in the group and have a wonderful week.
- Everyone, staff and participants, was inclusive and supportive.
We love Encore and are so happy with its mission, vision, and approach!
Ages 11-15:
- The instructors pushed her to improve … and gave balanced feedback.
- Both my girls loved the rehearsals most. They also loved painting the set. Very fun camp and they were sorry to see it end.
- [My students] learned the structure of a production and how a play develops. Discipline through practice.
- My younger daughter had never acted, so she learned a great deal about blocking, set design, and projecting her voice, among other things. Good experience memorizing a complicated script in a short time.
- Staff is always caring and fun!
- She is completely hooked and will audition for future shows. She didn’t want it to end.
- This is the first time my daughter has asked to attend a camp again next year. She came home so happy every day.
Loved the director and the assistants, all of them. Definitely a highlight of the camp experience – all were very sweet and easygoing ladies. My daughters loved them.
She didn’t want it to end.
Many, many thanks to these families for sharing their gracious feedback and for spending another wonderful summer with us here at Encore. We’re thrilled to share that registration for our Early and Late Fall class sessions is now open. Many of the teaching artists you know and love (for example: Ms. A, Mr. Seth, and Ms. Cici) will be returning to teach throughout the year. We can’t wait to see you all!
Mondays, September 23 – November 4 (No class October 14) – Six Class Session
Tuesdays, October 1-22 – Four Class Session
Saturdays, October 5-26 – Four Class Session
Late Fall Session
Saturdays, November 2 – December 14 (No class November 30) – Six Class Session
Wednesdays, November 6 – December 18 (No class November 27) – Six Class Session
Tuesdays, November 12 – December 17 – Six Class Session
Mondays, November 18 – December 16 – Five Class Session
Photos by Shannon McCarthy, Cindy Kane Photography, Brian Hernandez, and Aileen Christian.
Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
You’re Invited to Encore’s 2019 Fall Open House!
Encore Stage & Studio is excited to kick off the 2019/2020 education season with a Fall Open House event on Saturday, September 21, 2019, 10 am – 12 pm, at Encore’s Main Campus! Students will experience 30-minute sample sessions of Encore’s various upcoming fall classes. Parents and students will have the opportunity to meet teaching artists and Encore staff, as well as register for Early and Late Fall classes. Registration is free and recommended in advance to guarantee a spot in your favorite classes.
“Encore’s teaching artists bring professional excellence and passion for theatre to every class they teach. I love watching the final sharings for our classes because I get to witness the growing self-confidence and joy in each child.” — Sara Duke, Encore Stage & Studio Executive Director
Class sessions include options of either four or six weeks. Encore’s educational programs are designed to provide a fun and safe environment for children to explore theatre arts, from the newest beginner to the more experienced theatre fan.
10:00 am – 10:15 am: Meet and Greet
10:15 am – 10:45 am: Stories & Fairytales (Ages 3-5)
10:15 am – 10:45 am: Disney Dance (Grades K-1)
10:15 am – 10:45 am: Adventures in Narnia (Grades 2-3)
10:45 am – 11:15 am: Meet and Greet + Registration
11:15 am – 11:45 am: Best of Broadway (Grades 4-5)
11:15 am – 11:45 am: Adventures with Clifford (Ages 3-5)
11:15 am – 11:45 am: Fairytale Fun (Grades K-1)
11:45 am – 12:00 pm: Registration in the Parents’ Lounge
Stories & Fairytales (Ages 3-5)
“And they lived happily ever after!” But what happened first? This fun class studies a series of favorite fairytale stories chosen especially for our youngest friends, including Little Red Riding Hood, Peter Pan, Jack & the Beanstalk, and more! Develop the confidence of sharing a story with a beginning, middle, and end, while working together as a group.
Disney Dance (K-1)
Get ready for “A Whole New World” as we dance to Disney classics and brand-new hits! From The Lion King to The Little Mermaid, Frozen and Beauty and the Beast, we invite you to “Be Our Guest” as we learn rhythm and movement through your favorite tunes and tales as old as time!
Adventures in Narnia (2-3)
Step through the wardrobe and explore the thrilling land of C.S. Lewis’s Narnia. Work with your classmates to recreate the fantastical characters, creatures, and conflicts of this imaginary world.
Best of Broadway (4-5)
Do you adore a kick-line, dance in your seat, or dream of tapping up 42nd Street? Lace up your dancing shoes and sashay your way onto the stage with Encore! Students will learn fun combinations, as well as basic dance terminology, to set the foundation for years of dance and movement appreciation.
Adventures with Clifford (Ages 3-5)
Follow us through a series of adventure stories, designed for our youngest friends, with our trusty companion Clifford the Big Red Dog. Develop the confidence of sharing a story with a beginning, middle, and end, while learning valuable lessons about friendship and working together as a group.
Fairytale Fun (K-1)
Live like a King, Queen, Prince, Princess, or Court Jester for an hour each week with this engaging fairytale-themed class. Slay dragons, break magic spells, and live happily ever after as you and your classmates act out classic stories and even create your own!
Farewell to Summer Intern Brian Hernandez
This #TechTuesday, we’d like to take this time to thank a powerful force behind this summer’s educational and theatrical programming: Arts Management intern Brian Hernandez. Brian has been an essential member of Encore’s staff as we wrapped up our main stage season with Disney’s Newsies, especially in the heat (both literal and figurative) of the summer camp season. His graphic designs spiced up the shirts at Stage Door and graced the cover of many a final camp sharing. His friendly nature made him a instant favorite with Front of House patrons at Newsies and office staff alike. Read on to hear a bit more about Brian’s summer experience as an intern:
Encore: What did you enjoy most about your summer with Encore?
Brian: The creative freedom that this place has to offer. The staff is incredibly open-minded and creates an entertaining and productive atmosphere. Truly made coming into work enjoyable and unique.
Photo by Cindy Kane Photography
Encore: What’s your favorite memory?
Brian: I’d say my favorite memory was working Front of the House for Newsies. The energy, the work done, and being able to connect with more people from Encore was a delight!
Encore: What skills do you think helped you throughout your internship?
Brian: This internship helped me practice my prioritization skills which, in turn, helped with meeting deadlines, accomplishing tasks, and never feeling overwhelmed with time constraints. This internship furthered my understanding of how getting tasks done at the beginning will set you up for success towards the end.
Encore: What skill sets and experiences did you take away from your summer with Encore?
Brian: Delegating was a skill set that I will continue to use from my time here with Encore. Being able to work as Front of House manager made me step up in making sure everything was as efficient as can be, as well as making sure everyone helping out was doing their job and being supported. In addition, being in this theatrical environment also showed me that every day can be different and each day was an adventure that I would happily take on again and again.
Thank you for sharing with us, Brian, and for all of your fantastic work this summer. Your hilarious “Questions of the Week” and quick wit (not to mention your super cool shoes) will definitely be missed. We can’t wait to work together again soon. Until then, happy trails!
Blog contribution and additional photos provided by 2019 Arts Management Intern, Brian Hernandez. Edited by Shannon McCarthy.
3 Thrilling July Highlights to Get You Excited for Fall
Greetings, Encore fans! Can you believe that July has come and gone? We’ve been channeling our inner Olaf and enjoying all of the wonderful things we can do “in summerrrrrr.” July was a whirlwind of activity here at Encore. Let’s take a look back on all the fun we had, as well as all that’s in store this fall!
Encore’s production of Disney’s Newsies was an energetic and thrilling favorite for audiences, reviewers, staff, and cast alike. While the strike has now ended, we were excited to end our 2018/2019 season on such a high note.
Looking for an electric theatre experience of your own? Tonight is your final chance to audition for another Disney musical adaptation: Frozen, Jr. With fantastic songs, beloved characters (human, animal, and…weather-based?), creative technical elements, and more, this first production of Encore’s 2019/2020 Homecoming Season will surely give you chills.
Join us for the final night of auditions:
Location: Encore’s Main Campus (4000 Lorcom Lane, Arlington, VA 22207)
Time: 5-7 PM. Please arrive no later than 6:30 PM.
What to bring: Yourself! There’s no need to prepare anything in advance. Come prepared to play some games, learn a song, and have some fun! You may want to bring along a book or other quiet activity, in case you have to wait a bit before going into the audition room.
We Sent it to Space!
After a spring premiere that was out of this world, the cast of Rocket Woman was pumped to take the show on tour to two summer locations: Patrick Henry Elementary School and Nook in Ballston. We had a blast sharing this story of creativity, ingenuity, and perseverance with new audiences of young theatre lovers.
This rhythmic and exciting new addition to the Theatre for the Very Young catalog will be making one final appearance this season, so don’t miss out! Join us for a free public performance of Rocket Woman at the Lubber Run Amphitheater at 11 AM on Sunday, August 11, 2019. We hope to see you there!
We Shared Our Hard Work
Our campers have been very busy this summer, learning about all aspects of theatre, from projection and stage presence to choreography, Shakespeare to stage combat, theatrical lighting to play-writing, and more. Those of us here at the Main Campus love taking field trips to join the audiences of the end-of-camp performances or “sharings,” as we like to call them. It’s marvelous to see the culmination of so many hours in the classroom come to life on stage.
Does your student long to step into the spotlight, to polish up their dance steps, or to take on the task of playing a notorious villain? With Encore’s season of educational theatre classes, there is a theatre adventure awaiting each and every young actor. Fall registration opens Monday, August 12, 2019. In the meantime, spark your imagination by reading through all of our class descriptions, now available on our website:
Whether it be in the audition room, the classroom, or the audience, we look forward to celebrating Encore’s 2019/2020 Homecoming Season with all of you. Questions? Send us a note at info@encorestage.org or give us a call at 703-548-1154; we’re here to help!
Photos by Cindy Kane Photography and Aileen Pangan Christian. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.
Fall for Encore’s New Theatre Classes
Psst…hey, you. Yes, you! We have a secret for you…it’s almost August. We can hardly believe that our jam-packed summer has been whirling by so quickly. Before we know it, it’ll be time to sharpen our pencils and head back to school. If that thought sends you screaming to the nearest pool, don’t fear! We’ve already got our Education classes posted for the upcoming 2019/2020 season. Use these themes to guide your explorations as you plan for the fall and you’ll certainly have lots to look forward to. Onward!
Epic:
Do you dream of starring in your own comic book series, battling dastardly villains…or even becoming such a villain yourself? If so, here are just a few of the upcoming adventure-themed theatre courses we’ve got coming your way this fall.
Scenes from Encore’s Season (Grades 4-5)
Can’t get enough of Encore from the audience? Here’s your chance to get in on the action! Students will explore characters and themes using scenes from shows being performed as part of Encore’s 2019/2020 season, including Frozen Jr, Narnia, The Three Musketeers, and more. This session is the perfect opportunity for budding actors and eager audience members alike!
Saturdays, October 5-26, 2019
Four Class Session
Times: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Fee: $75
Skills: Storytelling, Confidence, Stage Presence, Collaboration
Fantastic Voyage (Grades K-1)
Each week, travel to lands unknown in this fantasy-themed class. Live like royalty, slay dragons, break magic spells, sail the seven seas, blast off to the moon, and live happily ever after as you and your classmates create and act out riveting stories, old and new, working together as a Fantastic crew.
Saturdays, October 5-26, 2019
Four Class Session
Times: 11:15 am – 12:15 pm
Fee: $75
Skills: Storytelling, Character Creation, Imaginative Thinking, Confidence
Classic Villains (Grades 6-8)
Delve into the mind and dastardly deeds of a villain! Actors will inhabit some of the most nefarious villains in theatrical history or those of your own creation. Discover how much fun it can be to play a literary bad guy as you develop backstories, hatch scandalous schemes, and don disguises. This class offers even the most experienced actors the chance to break the mold and create fun and interesting characters.
Saturdays, October 5-26, 2019
Four Class Session
Times: 11:15 am – 12:15 pm
Fee: $75
Skills: Literary Interpretation, Character Development, Staging, Acting Motivation
Ensemble
For every performer who longs to belt out powerful songs like Queen Elsa, leap through the air like a Newsie, and ace their next audition like a pro, we’ve created a series of fun and informative musical theatre classes to help grow your love while improving your dance and vocal technique.
Disney Dance (Grades K-1)
Get ready for “A Whole New World” as we dance to Disney classics and brand-new hits! From The Lion King to The Little Mermaid, Frozen and Beauty and the Beast, we invite you to “Be Our Guest” as we learn rhythm and movement through your favorite tunes and tales as old as time! This class may be repeated, as different songs are learned each session.
Saturdays, October 5-26, 2019
Four Class Session
Times: 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Fee: $75
Skills: Choreography, Spacial Awareness, Confidence, Stage Presence
Best of Broadway (Grades 4-5)
Do you adore a kickline, dance in your seat, or dream of tapping up 42nd Street? Lace up your dancing shoes and sashay your way onto the stage with Encore! Students will learn fun combinations, as well as basic dance terminology, to set the foundation for years of dance and movement appreciation. With new songs and dance styles taught each session, students are encouraged to repeat this class for new learning opportunities.
Saturdays, October 5-26, 2019
Four Class Session
Times: 12:30 pm – 1:30 pm
Fee: $75
Skills: Choreography, Spacial Awareness, Confidence, Stage Presence
Broadway Musicals (Grades 6-12)
This high-energy class will enhance and refine your singing, dancing, and acting skills to get you ready for any audition, performance, or class. Working with classic musical theatre songs, this class will help both beginning and experienced students to focus on vocals, choreography, and ensemble work as we build toward a theatrical final sharing.
Mondays, September 23–November 4, 2019 (No Class October 14)
Six Class Session
Times: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Fee: $115
Skills: Choreography, Projection, Stage Presence, Healthy Self-Image
Enchanted
As a children’s theatre, we love stories, big and small, realistic and wildly imaginative. Here’s a brief selection of some of the more magical adventures we have in store this fall.
Adventures with Clifford (Ages 3-5)
Follow us through a series of adventure stories, designed for our youngest friends, with our trusty companion Clifford the Big Red Dog. Develop the confidence of sharing a story with a beginning, middle, and end, while learning valuable lessons about friendship and working together as a group.
Saturdays, October 5–26, 2019
Four Class Session
Time: 9:00 am – 9:45 am
Fee: $75
Skills: Confidence, Focus, Listening, Story Telling
Snow Queen Stories (Grades 2-3)
Underneath a cold and snowy exterior lies a heart full of warmth and goodness in Hans Christian Andersen’s classic story of The Snow Queen. We will use this tale and other adaptations, such as Frozen, to develop acting skills. Come prepared to let it go and use your imagination!
Saturdays, October 5-26, 2019
Four Class Session
Times: 11:15 am – 12:15 pm
Fee: $75
Skills: Storytelling, Imaginative Thinking, Collaboration, Confidence
Supernatural Shakespeare (Grades 6-8)
“Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn and caldron bubble.” Love Shakespeare’s ghosts and witches? Things that go bump in the night? Mysterious apparitions? This is the class for you. This fall, we will delve in to the supernatural plays of Shakespeare. We’ll tackle the language of the Bard with easy to understand methods while exploring the eerie and fascinating characters within his plays. Join us…if you dare.
Mondays, September 23-November 4, 2019 (No Class October 14)
Six Class Session
Times: 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Fee: $105
Skills: Literary Interpretation, Character Development, Acting Motivation, Building Repertoire
For every swashbuckler, songbird, and royal persona out there, Encore’s Education program has something to pique your interest and take you on the imaginative and learning adventure of a lifetime. Mark your calendars for Monday, August 12, 2019, when fall registration opens for the first time this season. You won’t want to miss out on your favorite classes, so start planning today!
Photos by Cindy Kane Photography, Larry McClemons, and Aileen Pangan Christian. Blog contribution by Shannon McCarthy.