ABOUT THE CLASS

Theater “Теремок” introduces younger children to the world of theater through acting, imaginative play, character work, expressive speech and stage performance.

Children begin developing age-appropriate acting skills as they learn to create a character, use their voice, facial expressions and movement, understand emotions and communicate with other actors on stage.

Through theatrical exercises, improvisation and work with scenes, children learn to listen and respond to one another, follow stage directions, remember their parts and gradually become more confident speaking and performing in front of an audience.

An important part of the program is preparing and performing in two theatrical productions during the school year. Working toward a real performance gives children the exciting experience of bringing a story to life on stage and helps them understand that theater is created through imagination, practice and teamwork.

WHAT CHILDREN DEVELOP

• Age-appropriate acting skills
• Character development and role play
• Expressive and confident speech
• Voice, facial expression and stage movement
• Ability to understand and portray emotions
• Improvisation and imagination
• Listening and responding to acting partners
• Ability to learn and remember a role
• Stage awareness and ability to follow direction
• Cooperation and ensemble skills
• Confidence performing in front of an audience
• Creativity and self-expression

HOW WE LEARN

Children learn acting through theater games, acting exercises, improvisation, character work, expressive speech, movement and rehearsal of scenes and roles.

They experiment with different characters and emotions, learn how voice and movement can change a role, practice interacting with other actors and gradually develop the skills needed to perform as part of an ensemble.

As the year progresses, classroom activities lead into rehearsals for two stage productions — one during each half of the school year. Children learn their roles, rehearse scenes, work together with their cast and experience the complete process of preparing a theatrical performance.

Performing for an audience twice a year is an important part of the program, giving children a meaningful goal and helping them develop stage confidence, responsibility, teamwork and a genuine love of theater.