DM Playhouse's Summer Classes to Kick Off 6/23

There are still openings available in the Des Moines Community Playhouse's lineup of summer classes. Classes are taught by veteran Playhouse theatre education staff, and are a great addition to any child's summer vacation. Among the classes being offered are Extreme Theatre Games: Zombie Apocalypse, June 23-27; Page to Stage: "Pinocchio," July 11-18; and Audition Workshops, Aug. 4-8. Information on these and other classes, as well as registration forms, are available online at dmplayhouse.com, at the Playhouse, and by phone at 515-974-5365.

Extreme Theatre Games: Zombie Apocalypse is for students in grades 7-9 who want to face extreme theatre challenges that move teams of zombies and humans toward victory. There are games of strategy, games of mental endurance, and games unique to the theatre, complete with lessons on zombie special effects makeup and stage combat. Your team only wins if everyone can escape the undead. This class will be taught by our college theatre interns and is supervised by one of our master instructors.

Page to Stage: "Pinocchio" is designed for children in grades 3-8. On the last day of camp students will perform the story of the little puppet and his quest to become a real boy for an audience of their friends and family. Enrollment guarantees a speaking part in the play.

Audition Workshops are for children in grades 3-8 who are interested in honing their audition skills. This workshop will take the 2014-2015 season Kate Goldman Children's plays and provide the students with information and experience necessary to be comfortable and successful in auditions for those shows. Participation in this course does not guarantee a role, but will acquaint students with scenes from the shows, available roles, and the auditioning procedure at the Playhouse. On the final day, directors visit to offer valuable feedback. In addition to the Audition Workshop, the Playhouse offers a Musical Audition Workshop which explores musicals including "South Pacific" and "Mary Poppins."

The Playhouse has a limited number of partial scholarships awarded by the Kate Goldman Children's Educational Fund. Those interested should request an application form from the theatre. Tuitions discounts are offered to season ticket holders in either the Mainstage or the Kate Goldman Children's Theatre.

The Playhouse is Iowa's oldest and largest producing theatre. Located at the 42nd Street exit of I-235, the theatre has presented a full season of shows since 1919 and also offers a wide variety of educational experiences including classes, theatre trips to New York, and volunteer opportunities onstage and backstage.

Information on all Playhouse classes and registration forms are available online at dmplayhouse.com. Brochures can be picked up at the Playhouse, 831 42nd St., in Des Moines. For more information on Playhouse classes, contact Robin Spahr, Playhouse education registrar, at 515-974-5356.