High School Programs
The Writers' Group
In this push-in program, a teaching artist collaborates with an English or Creative Writing teacher to bring the experience of a professional writers' group into the classroom.
First, participants will read and study the works of playwrights such as August Wilson, Martyna Majok, and Celine Song. After analyzing these texts and exploring their creativity through writing exercises, they work independently or in small groups to create a solid first draft of an original short play.
They will then share their drafts with their fellow young writers, practice giving and receiving critical feedback, revise, and present a polished final draft. The weeks culminate in a full staged reading performed by professional working actors for an invited audience of friends, family, and theatre professionals!
Up to 1 hr per in-class session
2 in-class sessions per week
17 total in-class sessions per cycle
Maximum of 25 participants per cycle
THE PLAY LAB
This year-long afterschool enrichment program specifically amplifies the creative voices of young women and gender-expansive participants. These voices remain wildly underrepresented in the professional world of writing, directing, and producing. The Play Lab strives to help close that gap.
In the first half, participants will study the work of young women and gender-expansive professionals in the field, explore a variety of writing and directing exercises, and ultimately develop a foundational understanding of play creation—from script to production.
In the second half, they put their knowledge into practice. Participants will dive deeper into text analysis, write and revise original short plays, hold open auditions within the school community, and ultimately produce and direct their peers' work. The program culminates in an evening of fully produced original short plays, complete with costumes, lights, and simple set pieces!
Up to 2 hours per session
2 sessions per week
Maximum of 12 participants per cycle
35 sessions per cycle