Upcoming Session

Three ways to Register: Fax, Mail, In Person
Click here for a printable registration form that you can mail, fax or hand-deliver.
10-Week Fall Session: Sept. 27 – Dec. 12
Showcase: December 13
9/27, 10/4, (no class 10/11), 10/18, 10/25, 11/1, 11/8, 11/15, 11/22, 11/29, 12/6
Junior Broadway Bound
4-5pm
Ages: 4-6
Fee: $185
Instructor: Vincent Mottern
For musical theatre lovers this is a wonderful class to experience the joys of singing and acting. Musician/educator Vincent Mottern’s positive approach and passion for music and theatre are certain to inspire and bring out the very best in every student. Students are invited to perform in end of session showcase on December 13.
Junior Broadway Bound at 5PM
5-6pm
Ages: 4-6
Fee: $185
Instructor: Vincent Mottern
(Same as 4-5pm class)
For musical theatre lovers this is a wonderful class to experience the joys of singing and acting. Musician/educator Vincent Mottern’s positive approach and passion for music and theatre are certain to inspire and bring out the very best in every student. Students are invited to perform in end of session showcase on December 13.
Musical Theatre III/IV
6-7:30pm
Ages: 10-14
Fee: $185
Instructor: Vincent Mottern
Curriculum includes theatre games, acting, improvisation, as well as songs and script work. Mr. Mottern’s brings his skills as an accomplished pianist, composer and musical theatre director to his highly energized and creative classes. Students are invited to perform in end of session showcase on December 13th.
BEHIND THE CURTAIN...A Theatre Tech Class
6-7pm
Ages: 10-14
Fee: $185
Instructor: Melanie Taylor
Get your design and tech juices flowing! Learn what goes into taking a production from concept and script to the final curtain call. Students will learn the basics of set design, work on developing a costume plot, and gain a working knowledge of “stage jargon.” This class is certain to put your problem solving skills to the task and send your imagination into overdrive.
Teen Acting and Improvisation
7-8:30pm
Ages: 14 and up
Fee: $270
Instructor: Melanie Taylor
For the novice as well as those with stage experience, Ms. Taylor’s approach to the craft is certain to inspire, motivate and take your acting prowess to the next level. Learn how to bring depth and flavor to your roles. Class will also address the importance of “the back story,” body language and vocal dynamics in creating a memorable performance. Students are invited to perform in end of session showcase on December 13.
9/28, 10/5, 10/12, 10/19, 10/26, 11/2, 11/9, 11/16 (no class 11/23), 11/30, 12/7
TAP LIKE A PRO
6-7pm
Ages: All
Fee: $185
Instructor: Tom Stanton
Dance is a must for all actors interested in musical theatre. Gain coordination and dance techniques that will come in handy for auditions. Participants learn the basics of tap and get a good workout in the process. More advanced dancers are equally challenged in Mr. Stanton’s classes.
THE TV AND FILM ACTOR
Ages: Teen/Adult
Fee: $270
Instructor: Dan Cooley
Hone those acting skills by learning the foundational techniques needed to land that commercial or be cast in a sitcom, soap, or film. Working with actual scripts from TV/Film, students will learn how to make strong choices, analyze scripts and develop believable performances. Additionally, students will create short films to be used as promotional material for the Count Basie’s Performing Arts Academy.
9/29, 10/6, 10/13, 10/20, 10/27, 11/3, 11/10, 11/17 (no class 11/24), 12/1, 12/8
Beginner Acting skills
4-5pm
Ages: 8-11
Fee: $185
Instructor: Robin Oddo
This course is bound to give students added confidence and self esteem. Beginner Acting is the perfect class to learn the basics of becoming a believable actor with an understanding of stage techniques. Mrs. Oddo will include script work, improvisation and diction.
Acting Techniques II/III
5-6:30pm
Ages: 11-15
Fee: $270
Instructor: Robin Oddo
Expand your acting prowess in this techniques class. All exercises are designed to give the actor the opportunity to improve his/her level of expertise and gain a deeper understanding of character analysis and scene study. As students understanding of acting skills expands, they are able to layer their performances with more dimension and believability. Acting, in essence, is a lifetime study. It is definitely a case of “the more you know, the more you realize what you don’t know.” As students evolve and grow in understanding and maturity, so does their ability to perform.
Broadway Here I Come
5-6pm
Ages: 6-8
Fee: $185
Instructor: Samantha Giustiniani
This course concentrates on the music from Broadway and is the perfect introduction to the melodies and stories that created the standing room only blockbusters of Musical Theatre. Challenging theatre games, and innovative musical exercises allow the students to gain and grow as performers. Students are invited to perform in end of session showcase on December 13.
Musical theatre For Kids
6-7pm
Ages: 8-11
Fee: $185
Instructor: Samantha Giustiniani
This is a great class to hone your theatrical skills. Voice projection, characterization, script work, simple monologues and singing techniques will all be addressed in this class for fans of musical theatre and the stage. Students are invited to perform in end of session showcase on December 13.
Broadway Vocal workshop
6:30-7:30pm
Ages: 11-16
Fee: $185
Instructor: Fredi Walker-Browne
Want a Tony or a Grammy? Fredi Walker-Browne, a Broadway performer (original cast of RENT) teaches a series of physical and vocal exercises that enforce proper breathing, proper posture and singing techniques created by Joe Scott. Learn to increase vocal range and adjust to various singing styles: rock, pop, jazz and musical theatre. Class includes group harmonic work as well as solo work.
Dance Basics for Actors and Singers
7:30-8:30pm
Ages: 12 and up
Fee: $185
Instructor: Fredi Walker-Browne
Learn the basic dance moves and vocabulary most commonly used in musical theatre. Taught by Broadway veteran, Fredi Walker-Browne (original cast of RENT) this class, often requested by our teen actors, is the answer to every young actor’s prayers. There doesn’t seem to be enough time in a busy teens life to fit in all of the classes he/she needs in order to be a well-rounded performer. This class offers a comprehensive approach to learning dance basics, picking up choreography and helping students to move with grace and ease on and off the stage.
9/30, 10/7, 10/14, 10/21, 10/28, 11/4, 11/11, 11/18 (no class 11/25), 12/2, 12/9
JUNIOR ACTING ON CAMERA
4-5pm
Ages: 4-5
Fee: $185
Instructor: Megan Sambataro Donovan
Our youngest budding actors learn the basics of acting in front of the camera. A variety of theater games are incorporated to help the students gain confidence and natural acting techniques in front of the camera.
KIDS ON CAMERA
5-6pm
Ages: 6-8
Fee: $185
Instructor: Megan Sambataro Donovan
Have a blast while learning to perform on camera. Gain confidence as improve your acting and speaking skills. The perfect place to learn to do’s and don’ts of acting on film. Class activities designed to stimulate and motivate young minds. Simple script work will be introduced.
ACTING FOR THE CAMERA
6-7pm
Ages: 9-12
Fee: $185
Instructor: Megan Sambataro Donovan
Explore the types of shots and camera techniques that are used in today’s acting industry and become familiar with the “language” that is used on the set and the director’s expectations. Students will work on camera and have the opportunity to self-critique. Learning to speak clearly and distinctly also be addressed.
Broadway Dance
4-5pm
Ages: 8-11
Fee: $185
Instructor: Kate Havel
Round out your musical theatre skills with the basic dance class. Learn the most essential dance moves used on the Broadway stage. Course designed to help students pick up choreography and be confident during the audition process.
FIT DANCE
5-6pm
Ages: 14 and up
Fee: $185
Back to back energy filled dance routines choreographed to “slammin” music that includes easy but challenging steps. Styles include Hip Hop, Latin, Jazz and many more. Burn calories, get fit and have fun!
THE ACTOR'S WORKSHOP... FOR THOSE DEDICATED TO GROWING AS AN ACTOR
6-8pm
Ages: 13 and up
Fee: $360
An open class format… this class will be run like many of the Acting Programs in NYC… i.e.: students may join at any time during session (September through June). Mr. Cooley has designed a program that allows actors of all levels of commitment to delve into the craft of acting. Whether you are interested in booking a job, acing an audition or just overcoming the stress of public speaking this class provides an excellent training ground. A variety of acting methods will be presented as well as exercises to help each individual to discover his spirit and his “voice”.
10/2, 10/9, 10/16, 10/23, 10/30, 11/6, 11/13, 11/20 (no class 11/27), 12/4, 12/11
“GLEE”FUL CHORAL GROUP
9:30-10:30am
Ages: 9-12
Fee: $185
Instructor: Keith Heimann
Don’t sing in the shower… be a star and join our choral group. Learn to harmonize and sing in an ensemble and hone your vocal and performance skills. Students will perform in end of session student showcase.
Broadway For Kids
10:30-12pm
Ages: 9-14
Fee: $270
Instructor: Keith Heimann
Whether you are a seasoned performer or a newcomer to the magic of Broadway musicals, this class will get your creative juices flowing and ignite your enthusiasm. The perfect place to hone those performance skills and take your talents to the next level. Students will perform in the end of session Student Showcase on December 13.
WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS
WORKSHOPS AND SEMINARS
Advanced Cinematic Structure
Three-Day Screenwriter’s Intensive
Friday, September 24, 6:30-9:30pm
Saturday, September 25, 1-6pm
Sunday, September 26, 10-5pm
Fee: $310
Instructor: Peter Fox (Tripeg Studios)
In this weekend intensive module, aspiring and experienced screenwriters will examine and learn about:
● Creating Characters That Compel
● Cinematic Themes
● Classic Cinematic Structure
● Advanced Structures
● Anti-Structures
● Cinematic Plot Construction
● Techniques For Writing A Great Dialog
● Connecting Into The Industry
● Creating A Winning Log Line
● How To Get An Agent
Also, two films will be screened, with emphasis on structure and "how to get in and out of a scene.
“I HOPE I GET IT”
Instructor: Anthony Greco
You know you want to study theater performance in college. But WHERE and HOW should you apply? What steps make up the application and audition process? This workshop addresses these questions and also helps you prepare in other ways: developing the experience you need, building your resume, arranging headshots, and other tricks of the trade. It also helps you master the audition, from selecting the best monologue or song and preparing for your presentation at the audition as well as following through afterwards.
Shakespeare Primer
Tuesdays: October 12, 19, 26
4-5:30pm
Ages: 10-14
Fee: $90 (3-session workshop)
Instructor: Meredith Burns
Know of Shakespeare's work and think it's boring or over the top and not fun? Think Again. Shakespeare has tons of stories that relate to all kinds of experiences. Come dive into this exciting and challenging world and explore this incredible playwright through movement, text, improvisation and performance! No experience necessary, just bring an open mind and your imagination!
"…All The World's A Stage and All the Teens and Tweens Merely Players..."
Meredith Burns – Meredith received her BFA at SUNY Purchase Acting Conservatory and most recently completed a season long Acting Fellowship at The Shakespeare Theatre of DC where she performed in As You Like It, directed by Maria Aitken (The 39 Steps), Richard II, Henry V and Mrs. Warren's Profession with Elizabeth Ashley, directed by Keith Baxter. Off-Broadway credits include An Evening of New Writing at The Signature Theatre, and Betsy at Teatro Pregones directed by Rosalba Rolon. Teaching experience includes Shakespeare Workshops at Act Too Studios in South Hadley, MA and at the Artist founded agency Sitters Studio incorporating arts education with childcare.
Vocal Performance From the Inside Out
Fridays: October 8, 15, 22 (3-session workshop)
6-8pm
Ages: 13 and up
Fee: $125
This class teaches singing technique and performance of songs on a pre-professional level. Students study vocal techniques that will serve them in performing all styles of music. Learn how to “act a song”, dissect the lyrics, find its subtext and intentions and perform it with emotional connection. Students will also receive guidance in choosing songs that are well suited for them for auditions and concerts.
Stephanie has spent the past 25 years in the entertainment industry as a drama and voice teacher, performer, Artistic Director, producer, artist’s manager and booking agent. She received a B.A. in Drama and English and also studied music at The Boston Conservatory. She has co-produced live touring shows from licensed television and film properties, was Artistic Director for Algonquin Arts and the Program Director for Huntington Arts Council.


