Shakespeare for Young Actors

Led by GRSF company members, this intensive workshop for students grades 7 – 12, introduces young actors to the principles of acting Shakespeare.

On the heels of last year’s success with the Shakespeare for Young Actors program, for 2013 GRSF is offering two different SYA programs, grouped by student age and experience, to provide excellent one-on-one coaching, and to allow all students to get the most out of their educational experience with us.

Both Shakespeare for Young Actors I and II teach young actors the techniques used by professional actors when working on Shakespeare. SYA students will work on:

  • Helena Scholz-CarlsonBasic principles of acting and acting technique.
  • Applying principles of scansion, meter, and text analysis to Shakespeare’s plays.
  • Movement and creative improvisation exercises.

All SYA students also:

  • Work with members of the GRSF professional company and get a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to create a professional Shakespeare production.
  • Attend GRSF’s 2013 summer season productions and other festival events.
  • At the end of the workshop, participants will receive a certificate indicating their successful completion of the GRSF Shakespeare for Young Actors training program.

Shakespeare for Young Actors I

Program Details:
This workshop is geared toward students entering grades 6-10, and will be held July 9th-July 17th, from 10AM-3PM each day. The program culminates in a free performance of scenes for the public on July 17th. The tuition for the program is $300, with some scholarships available.
Program Description:
Two week introductory program to Shakespearean acting, intended for students who have NOT participated previously in any SYA program. Students will learn how to engage in Shakespearean text analysis by focusing on meaning, scansion, antithesis, and verse. Students will also be trained in acting, voice, and movement.

Shakespeare for Young Actors II

Program Details:
This workshop is for advanced students who are entering grades 10-12. Held daily from 10AM-3PM July 11-August 2nd, the program culminates in a public performance of a Shakespeare play at 1 PM on Friday, August 2nd. The tuition for the program is $425, with scholarships available.
Program Description:
Geared toward students who have previously participated in a GRSF SYA program, or those who have equivalent acting experience, this workshop will apply the skills of text analysis to adapt, produce, and perform a production of a Shakespeare play.

To be considered for acceptance into the program, students should complete an online application below, call GRSF office at (507) 474-7900 or email education@grsf.org. Application deadline is June 30, 2013. Space is limited, so early application is recommended.

  • Classes at the Winona State University’s Performing Arts Center.
  • Program fees include tickets to the two main stage productions, Twelfth Night and King Henry V, and other GRSF events.
  • Students will provide their own lunch; refrigeration is available.
  • Macbeth (2007 dir. Doug Scholz-Carlson) Chris Bernard and Kern McFadden.JPGHousing is not provided, but might be available for older students at WSU. We are also working on options for host families in Winona. Please inquire.
  • Parents must provide transportation to and from the program.
  • Classes are led by GRSF actor Tarah Flanagan and other members of the GRSF professional company.

Ready to join us? Click here to apply.

Photos: Helena Scholz-Carlson in The Winter’s Tale (SYA 2011), Andrew Carlson teaching in the Winona Area Schools, SYA class of 2008 with teacher Andrew Carlson, Macbeth (2007 dir. Doug Scholz-Carlson) with Kern McFadden and SYA alum Chris Bernard.