The 2010-11 workshop series features six workshops focused on contemporary theatre as it is experienced and practiced today. Experienced facilitators and instructors bring unique insight and valuable practical skills for artists and spectators alike.
Workshops sessions cost only $20 individually for a 3-4 hour program. Package discounts are available when you sign up for three or more in the series. Suitable for ages 16 and up, anyone with an interest in theatre will benefit from one or all of these fun and informative programs!
Acts of Contemporary Theatre
An Exploration of Contemporary Plays and Playwrights
September 12, 2010 - Spectrum Theater
Actors' founder, Fred Sebulske, takes you on an insightful exploration of plays and playwrights that define and redefine contemporary theatre.
This 3 hour workshop will bring valuable knowledge to broaden you appreciation of the unique voices in the late 20th and early 21st century.
[find out more]
Art and Influence in Contemporary Theatre
Events, Artists, and Philosophers Who Continue to Shape the Theatre of Today
November 21, 2010 - Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts
Modernism, post-moderism, surrealism, or could it be something new? Is it really art or just "anything goes" when it comes to the contemporary stage.
Art Historian Tamara H. Fox takes you on a journey spanning centuries which looks at how many forms of art, events, and philosophy have and continue to influence the performing arts today. [find out more]
Designs on Contemporary Theatre
Sets, Design, and Costumes for Today's Theatre
January 9, 2011 - Location TBA
Dress up, dress down or somewhere in between? Do sets and costumes play a vital role in the theatre experience or are they merely decoration? Join experienced designers Jessica Frymire (costumes) and David Miller (scenic design) as they discuss these questions and provide you with practical, hands-on experience on just how the pieces all fit together to make theatre the unique, special, and evolving art form that it is.
[find out more]
Playing With Contemporary Theatre
Acting Theory, Styles, and Movement for Today’s Theatre
February 20, 2011 - Grand Rapids Ballet Company
Get out of your seats and get ready to move! Acting teacher, movement and stage combat instructor Deb Keller brings you a fun, practical, and exciting crash course on contemporary acting techniques and styles.
Suitable for all ages, but not for the faint of heart, this medium to high impact session will challenge your mind and body to a greater understanding of what it really means to prepare for a role on the stage. [find out more]
Stages of Contemporary Theatre
Staging and Directing Techniques for Today’s Theatre
May 8, 2011 - Spectrum Theater Black Box (Room 201)
GRCC professor and veteran stage director Tom Kaechele takes you out of the audience and on to the stage for a one-of-a-kind directing workshop that addresses the unique challenges of staging plays and musicals for today's theatre.
Learn practical staging and preparation techniques in an informal and exciting workshop that will leave you with both the desire to create and the ability appreciate the fresh face of contemporary theatre. [find out more]
The Child in Contemporary Theatre
Options, Opportunities and Creative Works for the Children of Today
June 12, 2011, Spectrum Theater
Today's kids are different and tomorrow's kids will be too. How can we address the unique and complex issues of the day and yet still hold on to the lessons of the past? Aquinas College professor and playwright Randy Wyatt introduces you to the new face of theatre for children that builds upon the fairy tales of yesterday while simultaneously addressing the realities of growing up today.
[find out more]
