OUR PROGRAMS
Each of our courses consist of two components: Stage Lab and Script Lab. Stage Lab is where we explore all aspects of performance, beginning by playing improv games, and leading up to performance of fully-realized plays and musicals. Script Lab is where we generate and flesh out the ideas that will become our final performance. As the class moves forward, we’ll also explore all the other aspects that go into a final performance, including, sound, light, props, sets, and costumes. The result of each class is a professionally-produced public performance for family and friends.
COURSE OFFERINGS
All programs are open to students of varied experience levels ages 6+. The main differences are the weekly time commitment and final project.
Exploring Theatre & Storytelling
One day/week class offered Monday, Wednesday, & Friday, 4pm-6pm
With a heavy emphasis on exploration and play, this course is the perfect introduction or building block for theatrical kidos. These include interactive games, with an emphasis on experiential learning, , as well as opportunities to explore our Stage and Story “Laboratories.” Final performance is a block of student-generated short plays.
Continuing Theatre & Storytelling
Two days/week Tuesday & Thursday, 4pm-6pm
These two-hour classes give students extended time in both Stage Lab and Story Lab as well as group games and social time. With plenty of variety and a good mix of active and down time, this program keeps students happily engaged throughout. Final performance is a group-generated one-act play at our end-of-term performance.
Sample Day
4:00-4:15: Group games
4:15-5:00: Group A in Stage Lab, Group B in Story Lab
5:00-5:15: Break/social time
5:15-6:00: Rotation #2: Group B in Stage Lab, Group A in Story Lab
9-Week Course Overview
While courses vary in hours and scope, they each follow a similar path, which gives students time to experiment and explore, then build toward the end-of-term performance.
Week 1: Improv and writing prompts
Week 2: Ensemble building and team writing
Week 3: Solo performing and writing
Week 4: Group project
Week 5: Group project presentations
Week 6: Table read and table work for our script
Week 7: Sets, props, costumes, and makeup
Week 8: Lights and sounds
Week 9: Dress rehearsal & Final performance!
Final Performances
At the end of each 10-week term, The Chain Theatre produces a final performance consisting of work from each class. The show will be produced twice: once during a week night and once as a weekend matinee. These are high-quality, open-to-the public performances. Tuition includes two tickets to each show! Additional tickets can be purchased on the website or in-person on the day of the show. These shows will also be filmed and live-streamed, with a digital recording provided at no extra charge!