ADVANCED ACTING APPLE SHAKES
About our Advanced Acting Apple Shakes Program: This class is a non-musical class introducing the works of William Shakespeare to middle and high school aged participants (AGES 11 - 18). The class encourages young artists' development by teaching advanced acting techniques (emotional connection, stage combat, stage romance, and advanced memorization) as well as is an extended program to promote teamwork and performance quality. Participants learn the historical context and performance practices of Elizabethan actors as well as the rehearsal process of the time. Participants are cast in roles after in-class auditions to begin the traditional “rehearsal” process while using games as skill builders and theatrical workshops to promote artistic growth. Rehearsed for a long period of time to encourage full textural understanding, performance confidence and polish, this is an excellent class for drama hungry youth.
2025-2026 Show:
Much Ado About Nothing
About the Show: "Much Ado About Nothing" is a Shakespearean comedy centered around two romantic plots: the budding love between Hero and Claudio, and the witty, adversarial relationship between Beatrice and Benedick. While Hero and Claudio's romance is initially threatened by a malicious plot, and Beatrice and Benedick are tricked into confessing their love for each other, the play ultimately resolves with weddings for both couples, and the exposure of the villain, Don John. The title emphasizes the comedic nature of the play, highlighting how much fuss is made over events that ultimately prove to be inconsequential.
Participation Fee: $800
Participant Age Range: 11-18
Instructors: Emily Hills and Katharine Sonas
Class Days + Time: The first day of class is mandatory for participation.
Tuesday and Thursday Evenings from 6:30-8:30 pm beginning September 10
Mandatory Stage Reading:
Tuesday, December 17
Mandatory Technical Rehearsals:
April 13, 14, 15, 16 5:00-9:00 pm
6 Mandatory Performances:
Friday, April 17 7:30 pm
Saturday, April 18 7:30 pm
Sunday, April 19 2:00 pm
Friday, April 24 7:30 pm
Saturday, April 25 2:00 pm
Saturday, April 25 7:30 pm