When the Coronavirus Pandemic hit, almost every industry felt immediate effects. Now as we begin a new school year, we are seeing many organizations continuing to adapt. First Stage Theatre has experienced firsthand what it means to pivot during the pandemic in order to allow for classes to continue.
According to the American Alliance for Theatre & Education, we see many benefits for those who take arts courses, which includes theatre. "Students involved in drama performance scored an average of 65.5 points higher on the verbal component and 35.5 points higher in the math component of the SAT", the American Alliance for Theatre & Education website claims. In addition to benefits to academic performance, theatre has left a lasting impression on the confidence one who takes theatre classes would possess, "High school students who are highly involved in drama demonstrate an elevated self-concept over those who are not involved ", also according to the American Alliance for Theatre & Education.
First Stage is Milwaukee's second largest theatre academy. First Stage provides plays to be viewed by the public, along with assisting in new play development. One of the ways they accomplish these tasks is through their Theatre academy which receives about 3,000 applicants every year. In addition to actor training, attendees " see that it is OK to take risks and be themselves. It helps build self-esteem and cultivates the vital skills that will help young people throughout everyday life, such as collaboration, empathy, creative thinking and focus." according to the First Stage website.
Classes are available for students aged K3 - 12th Grade.
The fall academy sessions are currently accepting registrations to take part in a blended instruction base (in-person and virtual).
Cost of the classes does vary, however, First Stage says it offers financial assistance when a family may be in need.
Fall classes begin Saturday, September 26, 2020. To register for classes click here.
Fall classes will include: Acting, Musical Theatre, Improvisation and more.
To learn more about First Stage and how you can support their mission click here.
