Ezra Barnes, Director
Acting Skills That Go Beyond the Stage.
Learn from experienced performers who love to teach children.
Young Actors Workshop students work on a new script. Photo: Joe Ritter.
Classes in Cobble Hill at Christ Church (326 Clinton Street)
Acting for Ages 7-18
- The Play's The Thing
- Young Actors Workout
- Audition Workshop for Performing Arts High School Admissions
- Teen Actors Workout
- Musical Theater Workout
Classes Winter 2024
Classes are divided into three sessions: Fall, Winter and Spring. We will follow Covid safety precautions, modeling our policies on the policies of the Department of Education.
*Ages 7-9:
THE PLAY’S THE THING, Age: Games, Improv, Short Plays
This class builds ensemble through games and improvisations, monologues and scene work, culminating in short plays that are created collaboratively. Last year, “The Master Thief” was a runaway hit!
Mondays, 4:00-5:00 p.m., January 8-March 25 (no class on January 15, February 19): $330
*Ages 10-13:
THE YOUNG ACTORS WORKOUT: Scenes, Improv, Games, Short Plays
Actors do improvised scenes, fun games and exercises, building ensemble skills. They work on age-appropriate scenes and monologues. In the spring, they begin work on a play. Past presentations included “The Wizard of Oz” and “Peter Pan.”
Mondays, 5:15-6:45 p.m., January 8-March 25 (no class on January 15, February 19): $330
*Ages 10-13:
THE YOUNG ACTORS WORKOUT: Scenes, Improv, Games, Short Plays
Actors do improvised scenes, fun games and exercises, building ensemble skills. They work on age-appropriate scenes and monologues. In the spring, they begin work on a play. Past presentations included “The Wizard of Oz” and “Peter Pan.”
Tuesdays, 3:30-5:00 p.m., January 9-March 26 (no class on February 20): $360
*8th Grade:
AUDITION WORKSHOP FOR PERFORMING ARTS HIGH SCHOOLS
This class will not only prepare your child for the rigorous process of Performing Arts High school, college, conservatory and agent auditions, but help them to enjoy the adventure and do well. Notable playwrights like Wilder, Shanley, Inge, Durang, Shaw and others have written wonderful material for young actors, and that’s what we use.
This class is only offered in the fall.
*Ages 13-18
TEEN ACTORS WORKOUT
Through monologue and scene work, and sophisticated improvs and games, teen actors become acquainted with the actor’s toolbox. The range of playwrights is eclectic: Oscar Wilde, Neil Simon, Tracy Letts, William Inge, Shakespeare and others are explored. Tuesdays, 6:30-8:00 p.m., September 20-December 18 (no class 11/1): $390
Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m., January 8-March 25 (no class on January 15, February 19): $330
Tuesdays, 5:15 -6:45 p.m., January 9-March 26 (no class on February 20): $360
School Year offerings:
Classes are divided into three sessions: Fall, Winter and Spring. Parents sign their child up for the Fall and pre-register the child for Winter. I take new students for each session only if space permits. I keep my classes small by design—no more than ten students.
If the session has begun, and you wish your child to join a class, it’s possible if we’re not full! Fees will be pro-rated.
Discount: If you register for all sessions at the beginning of the fall session, the fee will be reduced by 15%. Scholarships are available for students in need who have a passion for acting and theater and whose parents can demonstrate need. We have never turned a student away for lack of financial means.
Late Registration: If the session has begun and you wish to register your child, I will pro-rate the sessions and welcome them to class if there is space.
*Private Coaching By Appointment
For students preparing for an audition or rehearsing a role in a play, or for students who simply wish to deepen their skills, one on one coaching is very helpful. Contact me for rates and information.
*Acting Classes for Adults
Are you interested in learning what I teach but find yourself older than the age ranges specified? Click here!
*Auditing
Would your child like to try out a class to see if it’s for them? For a $40 fee, they can attend a session, and try it out. They can participate as much as they like, it’s up to them!
Young Actors Workshop students perform in “A Christmas Carol” with Broadway actress Veanne Cox (photo by Joseph Henry Ritter).