Portal Players Dramatic Society is pleased to announce the opening of a new after-school drama program for youth. Capitol Stages is a comprehensive theatre experience designed for young people ages 4-17. This weekly class helps develop skills both on and off the stage, in a working theatre environment.
Designed by Portal Players alumni Teresa Nicholson, a recent graduate of the NIC early childhood education program, and Wendy Karpuik, who is attending Vancouver Island University for both theatre and art, this program blends all elements of theatrical performance with a playful flair ideally suited to children and youth.
Classes are divided into age categories: 4-6 years; 7-9; 10-12; and 13+ years. Each week students will study different facets of acting or behind the scenes theatre work, including set design, prop making, make-up, etc. All lessons are tailored to best suit the level of the class to make learning fun and engaging. As each student masters the different skills of the stage, they will receive Talent Level badges in recognition of their new proficiency.
Each semester will end with a display of talent for parents, family and the public. The fall semester will focus mostly on stagecraft, and will culminate in “The Works”, a variety style show. Spring semester will introduce technical elements as well as continue putting those acting skills to the test. as classes become focused on staging a production of “The Death and Life of Sneaky Fitch” by James L. Rosenberg.
Registration has begun and spaces are limited. Classes run Wednesdays 3:30pm-4:30pm for ages 4-6, 4:30pm-5:25pm for ages 7-9, Thursdays 3:30 pm-4:25pm for ages 10-12 and 4:30pm-5:25pm for ages 13+. Registration fee is $50 which includes a full Portal Players family membership. Classes cost $450 for the year, or $50 per month. For more information or to reserve your child’s place, contact Portal Players at 250-723-1195 during office hours, Tuesday - Friday: 2 pm - 6 pm and Saturday: 10 am - 2 pm.