Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey Announces Summer Education Programs

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey has begun enrollment for its summer educational programs which offer training in classical theatre by professional theatre artists. "In addition to our mission of presenting Shakespeare's canon and other classic masterpieces, The Shakespeare Theatre is proud that in these very difficult times for the arts, we remain steadfast in our dedication to training the artists of the future. For nearly 20 years, we have mentored and trained thousands of students and young theatre professionals; grooming new talent from across the nation. Countless members of our training programs have continued their relationship with The Shakespeare Theatre working their way to membership in the Actor's Equity union or into professional theatre administration arena, engaging is successful careers as actors, directors, designers and administrators in the theatre, television and film industries," said artistic director Bonnie J. Monte

THE JUNIOR AND SENIOR CORPS

Now in its seventeenth year, the Junior and Senior Corps provides a forum in which young people ages 11 to 17 can expand their performance skills and gain a deeper understanding of classic texts, while at the same time, meet new friends and have a great time. To register, or for more information, call 973-408-3980 or email jbgrant@shakespearenj.org

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey's Junior Corps is a two-week summer acting program for ages 11 through 14. The program offers a unique opportunity for aspiring young actors as well as youngsters making their first foray into theatre.

Each two-week Junior Corps session includes hands-on training in voice and speech for the stage, movement for the actor, Shakespeare's text, improvisation, stage combat and scene study. The focus of the Junior Corps program is ensemble work. The sessions culminate in a short original production, adapted from Shakespeare or another piece of classic literature, which is performed before an audience of family members, friends, local residents and Shakespeare Theatre company members. While developing basic acting skills, the Junior Corps curriculum also emphasizes self-confidence, collaboration, creativity and teamwork. The Junior Corps offers two sessions-- July 13 through 25, and July 27 through August 8. No audition is required for admission into the Junior Corps, but space is limited. To register, or for more information, call 973-408-3980 or email jbgrant@shakespearenj.org.

The Senior Corps is a three-week program designed for students ages 14 to 17 who demonstrate an aptitude for performance or a strong interest in theatre. The Senior Corps builds upon the foundation of the Junior Corps curriculum with an enhanced focus on Shakespeare, the rehearsal process, performance techniques and the nuts and bolts of the profession.

Students take classes in voice and speech, movement for the actor, improvisation, Shakespearean scene study, stage combat and audition technique. The sessions culminate with a performance piece - either a collection of Shakespeare scenes, or a condensed version of a Shakespeare play - which is presented to family, friends, local community residents and Shakespeare Theatre company members. Admission to the Senior Corps is by audition only and space is limited.

Students will meet with The Theatre's professional resident artists in master classes and discussions. Each student will also come away from the program with a rehearsed and critiqued Shakespeare monologue of his or her choice - a great asset for auditioning for colleges or other theatre programs. All members serve as ushers at the Theatre's performances providing an opportunity for students to work with the public while experiencing the Theatre's professional productions.

Two sessions are offered -- June 22 through July 11 and August 10 through 29. To sign up for an audition slot, or for more information, call 973-408-3980 or email jbgrant@shakespearenj.org.

Tuition for each two-week Junior Corps session is $600. Returning students or children of 2009 Season subscribers receive a $75 discount. The three-week Senior Corps sessions are $700 each. Returning students or children of 2009 Season subscribers receive a $75 discount.

THE SUMMER PROFESSIONAL TRAINING PROGRAM

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is also accepting applications for its highly competitive Summer Professional Training Program designed for young adults ages 18 and up. The program, which includes the Acting Apprentice Company as well as the Intern Company, provides young artists with an invaluable opportunity to develop their skills within the auspices of a major professional regional theatre. The 2009 program runs from May 24 through August 10. The application deadline is May 1, 2009. For more information on the Summer Professional Training Program or to receive an application form, call 973-408-3806, email SPTP@ShakespeareNJ.org visit www.ShakespeareTraining.org.

 

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey nurtures each member of the training program, providing strong mentorship along with thoughtful and candid evaluation within a professional theatre arena. In addition, the program provides one-on-one instruction and interaction with faculty, the artistic director and the professional staff and company members of the Theatre.

A time-honored and traditional system of theatrical training, the Apprentice Company provides college-age and graduate students with classroom training in acting, voice, movement, text analysis and more; valuable hands-on performance experience; and essential exposure to all aspects of professional theatre. Apprentice Company members are also assigned crew assignments including running crew, carpentry, costumes, lighting, sound, props and administration. During the course of the summer, as part of the Late-Nite Series, apprentices present three scene-night presentations directed by Shakespeare Theatre faculty, directors and staff to an audience comprised of the entire company. The Apprentice experience culminates in a fully produced abridged Shakespeare production presented for family and company members.

The Intern Company is designed for early-career theatre professionals interested in non-acting areas. Interns work in one department throughout the summer under the direction of The Shakespeare Theatre's professional staff. Internships offer in-depth practical training and provide the opportunity to gain hands-on work experience at a professional level. Prior experience in the field of interest is necessary for most internships. Some universities and colleges offer professional training credits for internships when included in regular full-time course loads. Administrative internships include general management, company management, development/fundraising, marketing and education. Artistic internships include direction and artistic/casting. Production and design internships include lighting, props, scenic construction, design and painting, sound tech and design, stage management, production management and costume construction and design.

Tuition for the Apprentice Company, including housing, is $3,200 for the eleven-week program. There is no tuition fee for the Internship Company. The majority of internships are unpaid; however a limited number of stipends are available in certain areas. Housing is available for interns for an additional cost.

For more information on the Summer Professional Training Program or to receive an application form, call 973-408-3806, email SPTP@ShakespeareNJ.org or visit www.ShakespeareTraining.org.

 

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