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Classes

We offer a wide variety of classes including but not restricted to Creative Dramatics for ages Pre-School through 1st grade, Acting/Improvisation for 2nd through 6th Grades and Acting/Improvisation for Teens.  Character development and scene work is included in all classes.  Special workshops are often offered during the year to develop skills in Auditioning, Musical Theater, Stage Combat, Acting for the Camera, Playwriting, Stage Movement for Actors and Shakespeare's Stage.  Additionally will be our Acting Ensemble.  This is a select group of actors, chosen by invitation or by audition, who will be developing short plays to be toured during the year for public performance in Gig Harbor and the surrounding areas.

Dress Requirements

Street clothes are appropriate for all classes in the Theater program.  Broad movement is sometimes required and, consequently, clothing should be loose fitting.  If women wish to wear a skirt, tights should be worn underneath for modesty.  Often, the teacher will want the students to work in stocking feet rather than in shoes.

Additional Fees

Sometimes there might be an additional minimal fee necessary for scripts or copying fees.  The instructor will make every attempt to keep these fees to a minimum.

Performances

Each class will produce an end of year production to demonstrate the skills that have been developed during the year.  Dependent on the script chosen for the final project, a costume (selected by the Director) will need to be constructed or purchased for the production.  The costume becomes the actor's personal property at the conclusion of the performance.

Additional Performance Opportunities

The Academy of Performing Arts is the recognized school for Encore! Theater Company and as such, the enrolled students are advised of performance opportunities in that organization.  Auditions for Encore! are open to the public and consequently an actor does not have to attend The Academy to audition, but the formal training is definitely recommended and encouraged. 

Please feel free to contact our Director, Kathleen L. McGilliard, with any questions or concerns regarding  any of our programs.