Playmill Theatre to hold workshop for young performers
Published at | Updated at
IDAHO FALLS – The Playmill Theatre is hosting its first-ever regional workshop for aspiring performers.
The event is geared toward youth ages 12 to 18 and will be held at Thunder Ridge High School on Saturday, March 16.
Mason Lucero, the general manager of the Playmill Theatre, tells EastIdahoNews.com the workshop is an opportunity for young people to pursue a passion while gaining a marketable skill.
“The great thing about this workshop is that (while) we are focusing on the performing arts, what we’re really trying to do is coach these kids so they can learn how to communicate effectively. That’s the No. 1 skill (associated with) theater,” Lucero says. “Each class will focus on the skill associated with performing; however, each class will wrap up on a note connecting the lesson to real-life experience.”
Students will rotate through a series of eight classes throughout the day. Industry professionals will coach them on different aspects of theater production, including stage combat, interview and audition etiquette, teamwork and collaboration, acting, vocal coaching, and choreography.
Lucero’s wife, Eliza, is the choreographer for the Playmill Theatre and will teach the choreography class. She says choreography gives you an awareness of your body and how you carry yourself in public.
“(People) with training in dance and choreography carry themselves well and have better skills in spatial awareness and alignment. Dance unites us all and helps us express emotions that couldn’t otherwise be expressed,” she says.
Classes will run from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will conclude with a performance for participants’ friends and family from 7 to 8 p.m.
The cost to attend is $100, which includes the cost of lunch and dinner for participants. Families with multiple participants will receive a 15 percent discount for each child that registers.
There are 200 slots available for the workshop. About 25 slots are claimed so far, and if every slot is filled, Lucero says he’d like to make this workshop an annual or semi-annual event.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for all those who come, whether they’re interested in the performing arts or not,” says Lucero. “The Playmill has a vast network of professionals who are taking time to come and teach these kids for free. It’s an awesome resource we have that we’re taking advantage of to give back (to the community).”
Though the world of performing arts is a risky business, Lucero says, it’s possible for those who are willing to work hard and cultivate their talent to turn their passion into a full-time gig.
To learn more or purchase tickets, click here.
The Playmill Theatre’s 2019 season kicks off Memorial Day weekend. This year’s shows include “The Music Man,” “The Foreigner” and “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Tickets are available on the Playmill’s website.
