ACTING
MSTDA offers dramatic arts classes for all ages that teach skills and techniques for continuing on into the theatre production program or simply to enrich our students’ lives through creative exploration. These classes meet once a week, unless otherwise stated. Children’s classes culminate in an open class for parents and caregivers to attend. Our high caliber adult classes are taught by industry professionals in a fun, non-competitive environment.
SEMESTERS 6-16 weeks depending on time of year:
DROP IN $25/class (not available after first two weeks of semester)
FULL SEMESTER PRICING: Fall/Winter $320; Winter/Spring $320; Summer varies. Sibling and multi-class enrollment discounts offered. Please inquire by email for discount code.
*NEW FALL 2023* Mandarin Through Drama 18 months + w/caregiver
Theatre Yak Yak’s Mandarin Through Drama program for little and young ones provides exposure to the Mandarin language via an engaging platform for participants to make sense of and have fun with the new sounds. Caregivers are empowered to reinforce simple class material so that language internalization continues at home. (So, no prior knowledge of Mandarin needed!) A typical session would be conducted code-switching between Mandarin and English, and would usually include one or more of these elements; sing-along, bilingual storytelling, dramatic enactment, and other forms of theatrical arts.
Playmakers® Toddler/Preschool Drama Program 2–4 yrs
An innovative introductory theatre class for the youngest actors! Even at this age, your child’s imagination is blooming, ready to explore story-telling, acting, singing and dancing. We play theatre games, act out stories, try on costumes, learn songs and scenes and overall encourage creative self-discovery. Parent/Caretaker participation is required . Families and friends are invited to our open class theatrical celebration at the end of the session.
*NEW FALL 2023* Playmakers® Arts Exploration Class Ages 2+
A new offering based on the Playmakers® summer camp curriculum. A drop off class for ages 2+ where students are guided through activities exploring all areas of the arts - dance, creative drama/play, music, singing and crafts. Class meets once a week for two hours.
Creative Drama Ages 4–6
Children develop creative abilities in a fun, non-competitive environment with pantomime, improv and imaginative story-work. Class readies students to move up into our Intro to Children's Theatre & Children's Theatre.
Special Moving Stories (available on request) Ages 4+
A class specially developed for students with special needs and disabilities. This class is to be taken with a caregiver/parent. Through storytelling and movement, students are encouraged to explore and express themselves in a supportive environment led by DOE special education teacher and early intervention therapist, Debra Orenstein. Class will focus on improving motor skills, muscle control, confidence, and socialization.
Intro to Children's Theatre 1st grade and up
This class is an introduction to Roosevelt Island's unique Children's Musical Theatre, learn the basics including improv, theatre games, storytelling & performance skills in a fun and supportive environment. Students will learn excerpts from popular children's Broadway musicals. An open class performance will be at the end of the semester for invited guests.
*NEW FALL 2023* Children's Improv Theatre Grades 3-7
In this class students will study the fundamentals of improvisation using exercises that help develop strong ensemble and character work. With a focus on stage presence, young actors will develop patience, self confidence, good communication skills, and a respect for other performers and their creativity.
Young Heroes in Training Ages 6-12
Join the fun at Theatrical Combat NYC and begin your journey in the art of Action Acting as a young Hero-In-Training! In this class, students will have the opportunity to explore the basics of stage and screen combat. Our diverse curriculum includes swordplay, martial arts, rolls, falls, throws, acting, and more! Along with learning to perform like their favorite action heroes, students will explore the importance of teamwork, creativity, communication, and self-discipline.
Acting for Adults Mihaela Mihut
This class focuses on group exercises and scene work using The Method as developed in the Actors Studio by Lee Strasberg based on the work of Constantin Stanislavski. Method Acting, as learned and practiced by the instructor personally (as a member of the Actors Studio), has proven to work in many different classes, workshops and private instruction for actors and non-actors (lawyers, doctors, public speakers, marketing executives, etc). This technique when understood and taught in the proper way will benefit all involved giving a fresh perspective to your profession. The Method allows students to develop a new approach, away from their learned routine, using their own unique instrument. Through various exercises, students learn to make risky choices, allowing them the creation of exceptional work and characters, and inspiring them to find the surprising side of themselves, creating a deeper understanding of who they are, first as people, then as actors and characters. Great achievements of successful people are emboldened by the clear understanding and use of their physical and emotional experiences.
Fall/Winter Semester
$320 - one hour class
$480 - 1.5 - 2 hour class
Winter/Spring Semester
$320 - one hour class
$480 - 1.5 - 2 hour class
Summer Semester
varies
Summer semester begins July 8th, 2024. Classes will take place at MSTDA 548 Main Street and 507 Main Street. View Schedule
Scholarship opportunities are available for those who qualify. More
Private lessons also available! More
Give the gift of dance, music and theatre to someone close to you! Gift Certificates