OUR THEATRE INTENSIVES / WORKSHOPS
Our Summer Theatre Intensives (STIs) ​/ Fall & Spring Workshops are full commitment programs focused on training in acting, dancing and singing.
They are rigorous, artistically stimulating, and are designed to give everyone involved, intensive skill-building experiences.
They are open to kids ages 8-18 (unless otherwise noted) and of ALL levels; those who are already working in the industry, those who are performing in school and community shows as well as for those new to the stage.
These are not craft and games kind of camps but intensives that focus on hard work to develop and put on a Broadway-style show
for live audience(s) in a matter of a couple of weeks. They are not for everyone, but they are intensely fun and amazing experiences.
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RSYTC believes that theatre evokes the worlds of our dreams and memories, as well as many of the metaphorical possibilities of theater. It is also a remarkable medium for addressing social change and personal transformation.
The objective of our training programs is to:
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Inspire children to understand and experience theatre, from behind the scenes to the action on stage.
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Learn foundational techniques of giving life to character in solo and collaborative ensembles.
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Develop confidence, social skills and technique to perform in front of a live audience.
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Build an understanding of each cast member's relationship to the musical/production.
RSYTC teaches methods that have been developed over 30 years of workshops around the world.
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PUTTING KIDS BACK ON TRACK THROUGH THEATER
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The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on children's academic, social, and emotional development. Months of remote learning, social isolation, and disrupted routines have left many kids struggling with focus, confidence, collaboration abilities, and mental health issues.
As families seek ways to help get kids back on track, theatre programs provide an engaging and effective solution. The performing arts inherently teach valuable skills that can help combat some of the pandemic's negative consequences.
Theatre gets kids re-engaged and re-focused through the discipline of memorizing lines, following directions, and staying present. It provides a structured, creative outlet for students to regain confidence and ease into socialization through character work and performing. Acting exercises encourage emotional expression after long periods of isolation.
Moreover, theatre fosters the teamwork, communication, and improvisation skills that may have waned during fragmented virtual schooling. As they collectively bring stories to life, kids must listen, compromise, support one another, and think critically - all while reigniting their imaginations.
More than just fun, theatre replenishes the crucial life skills kids need coming out of this challenging time. With its academic, social and emotional benefits, theatre can help get kids' overall development back on track and prepared for future success.
THE BENEFITS OF MUSICAL THEATRE
Life Skills Beyond the Stage:
The youth theater program goes beyond the stage. It equips these young participants with essential life skills. Through theater, they learn effective communication, teamwork, time management, and the ability to handle constructive criticism. These skills are invaluable and will serve them well in any future endeavor they choose to pursue.
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Fostering Creativity:
Theater is a medium that celebrates creativity and encourages imagination. It's heartening to see these kids explore their creative sides, from bringing characters to life to designing sets and costumes. They develop a deep appreciation for the arts and often find new passions and interests along the way.
Building Lifelong Friendships:
The bonds that form within the youth theater are truly special. Participants forge friendships that can last a lifetime. They share the ups and downs of rehearsals and performances, creating a strong support system that extends beyond the theater walls. It's heartwarming to witness these young individuals grow not only as performers but also as friends.
Cultivating a Love for the Arts:
Introducing kids to the world of theater can spark a lifelong love for the arts. It's incredibly fulfilling to know that I'm playing a role in shaping their cultural appreciation. Whether they pursue careers in the performing arts or simply become avid theatergoers and supporters, I've contributed to enriching their lives through the arts.
​Building a Sense of Community:
The youth theater program is a microcosm of the community. It brings together kids from diverse backgrounds, and in doing so, it fosters inclusivity and a sense of belonging. This sense of community extends to parents, volunteers, and supporters who come together to create memorable productions.
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Creating Lasting Memories:
Theater is about creating moments that leave a lasting impact. Seeing the joy on the faces of these young actors when they step on stage and hearing the applause from an appreciative audience is a memory that stays with me. It's a reminder of the magic of live performance and its ability to touch hearts.
In summary, being involved with a youth theater program has been a deeply fulfilling and rewarding experience. It's not just about teaching kids to act; it's about helping them grow as individuals, fostering a love for the arts, and building a tight-knit community. This journey continues to bring me immense joy, and I look forward to witnessing the future successes of these talented young performers.
SOCIAL BENEFITS:
Building Confidence Through Theatre: The Power of the Stage
For kids and teens, few activities build confidence and public speaking skills quite like theatre camps. On the stage, students must project their voices, convey emotions, and command the audience's attention – vital skills that translate to classroom presentations, interviews, and social settings. Theatre forces participants out of their shells, teaching them to embrace the spotlight rather than shy away from it. The collaborative process of putting on a show builds teamwork abilities and allows each child to make their unique contribution. Whether delivering lines, singing, or dancing, every role plays an important part in the overall production. As they work together toward opening night, students gain a tremendous sense of accomplishment that boosts self-esteem. The thunderous applause is a feeling like no other – giving kids a magical first taste of the standing ovation their talents deserve.
The Focused Fun of Theatre Camps for Kids with Social Issues
Theatre camps provide an excellent outlet for kids with ADD/ADHD and social challenges. The performing arts require focus and discipline, but teach it in a fun, creative way that captures kids' interests. From memorizing lines and choreography to following directors' instructiondirections, theatre helps build concentration skills. The collaborative nature also promotes social interaction, communication, and cooperation. Kids gain confidence by performing in front of others. The structured environment of rehearsals and productions imposes a positive routine. Overall, theatre camps allow kids to have a blast while developing crucial life skills for managing ADD/ADHD and relating to peers. The imaginative setting provides an engaging approach to practicing focus, self-control and teamwork.
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Communication Skills
Theatre requires kids to effectivelyproject their voices, enunciate clearly, and use inflection to convey emotions/characters. They learn skills like loud projection, articulation, and tone. Improvisation games teach thinking on one's feet. Interpreting scripts and bringing characters to life works on verbal and non-verbal expression.
Empathy Development
By portraying a range of characters, theatre allows kids to metaphorically step into someone else's shoes - gaining valuable practice at seeing things from others' points of view. They have to try to understand different motivations, backgrounds, and experiences to authentically embody roles. This builds empathy and emotional intelligence.
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Teamwork
Putting on any production requires all members to collaborate cohesively as a team, fostering teamwork mentalities. Kids learn to compromise on creative decisions, stay on schedule, rely on one another for cues, and put the overall show ahead of individual agendas. This teamwork transfers to other group settings.
Social Confidence
Performing for an audience, even in a smaller theatre camp setting, reduces shyness and anxiety around public speaking/performing over time. Standing on stage in front of an audience forces kids to overcome fears and self-consciousness. The more they perform, the more their confidence and comfort in front of groups grows, preparing them for other public speaking/performing situations.
Creative Self-Expression
Theatre allows kids to tap into their imaginations and find innovative ways to interpret characters/stories, providing an important creative outlet - unleashing their creative talents and express themselves in unique ways. The fun, performing arts setting of theatre camps provides the perfect backdrop for kids to develop a wide range of social and interpersonal skills.
From designing sets/costumes to conveying emotions through acting and dance, there are countless outlets for imagination and self-expression.
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