Water Works Theatre Kicks Off Water Works Academy Today

Since 2002, Water Works Theatre Company has offered performance minded students a chance to learn from experts and to perform on the Starr Jaycee Park outdoor stage during their annual Shakespeare In The Park. This summer, the theatre company will again "Shake" up summer education with two week-long programs for students in grades one through pre-college.

High School and pre-college students can participate in the Water Works Academy, a one-week intensive that gives young actors the chance to create their own play in the park using a "summer stock" company approach. Working professionals guide students as they embark on the adventure of writing, directing, stage managing, designing and performing a one-of-a-kind piece of theatrical magic on the Shakespeare stage in Starr Jaycee Park. Water Works Academy classes are today, July 29 - August 2 with a special performance on Saturday August 3. Tuition is $200 per student and available now online at www.waterworkstheatre.com.

Students entering grades 1-8 can participate in KidsAct!, a one week educational experience with Water Works' professional staff that encourages students' natural confidence and inspires their creative expression. In the open park setting, participants will discover the basics of Shakespeare, safe stage combat, dance, improv and scene work. KidsAct! classes are August 5-9 with elementary performances the evening of August 9 and middle school performances August 10. Tuition is $200 per student and available now online at www.waterworkstheatre.com.

This year Water Works' educational programs will be directed by Megan Wright. "I am thrilled to be a part of this awesome program and to be working with Water Works this summer," states Wright. "I believe in the trans-formative power theatre has on young people. Shakespeare in particular can be incredibly empowering and exciting for children of all ages! Students will create, rehearse and perform a one of a kind piece that is their own masterpiece in just one week! Its an intense and rewarding experience that is unlike any other!"

"We are always amazed with the incredible talent our teachers bring to our summer programs," stated Water Works Executive Director Ed Nahhat. "This summer we're pleased to welcome Lisa Melinn, back to the program. Our students have consistently told us that she is one of their favorite teachers. She has performed and taught with many of the areas best theatres and we know our students will be happy to see her this year."

Royal Oak student Jared Clark knows how rewarding Water Works summer programs can be. After participating in several seasons of KidsAct! Jared was cast in Water Works production of Macbeth. "Water Works has helped me grow as an actor and develop skills to give me the ability to speak well in front of others," stated Jared. "My favorite part of KidsAct! has been sword fighting, performing the battle scene between Macbeth and Macduff and learning from great teachers. Those weeks are the best part of the summer."

A limited number of spots are still available for both educational programs. Registration is being taken online at www.waterworkstheatre.com through Sunday, July 28. If available, last minute registration will be taken in the park beginning at 8:00 am on the first day of each program.

Water Works Theatre Company presents the 13th annual Shakespeare in the Park, August 1-11. Michigan's biggest and best outdoor professional theatre event will feature two weeks of theatrical fun in the middle of the tree-filled 28 acre Starr Jaycee Park. Tickets ($8-$20) are on sale now for The Merry Wives of Windsor and Much Ado About Nothing and can be purchased online at www.waterworkstheatre.com.

The Merry Wives of Windsor
Bawdy and hilarious, The Merry Wives of Windsor weaves a tangled tease around Shakespeare's famous clown, Falstaff! Catch this refreshing take on the classic comedy directed by Water Works' veteran Paul Hopper, starring Water Works favorite, Sara Catheryn Wolf, and introducing Richard Redman as the fumbling Falstaff. Performances are at 8:00pm Thursday - Saturday and 5:00pm, Sundays August 1-11. Tickets ($20) are on sale now at www.waterworkstheatre.com, by calling (248) 399-3727, or one hour prior to performances at the Starr Jaycee Park box office. Outside food & beverages are prohibited in the Shakespeare in the Park outdoor theatre, but concessions and beer and wine will be for sale during Merry Wives performances with proper ID.

Much Ado About Nothing
The greatest romantic comedy of all time goes away to summer camp! Director Barton Bund re-imagines the explosive classic comedy romp for a new audience. Camp Messina for Girls is turned upside down when a handsome prince and his goofball entourage descends on the idyllic setting. The battle of the sexes has just begun! Join us for a wild summer of Love! Appearing this year as Water Works' Daylight Family Show, Much Ado About Nothing is presented as a family-friendly one-hour daylight performance Saturday & Sunday afternoons at 1:00pm and Tuesday and Wednesday evening at 7:00pm, August 3-11. Tickets ($8) are on sale now at www.waterworkstheatre.com, by calling (248) 399-3727, or one hour prior to performances at the Starr Jaycee Park box office. Outside food and beverages are prohibited inside the Shakespeare in the Park theatre, but family friendly concessions will be available during Much Ado About Nothing performances.

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