Penobscot Opens Student Registration for CORALINE and More

Penobscot Theatre Company's Dramatic Academy is leveraging its new space at 51 Main Street, Bangor, to offer an expanded slate of performance-based classes and special workshops. Registration is now open for all ages and experience levels. The winter session of the company's popular after-school series will culminate with the production of Coraline, an imaginative musical based on the beloved fantasy novel by Neil Gaiman. The program will start January 9 and run Tuesdays through Fridays from3:30 to 4:30 for ages 4-6 and from 4:30 to 6:30 for ages 7-15. Performances will be March 23-25 at the historic Bangor Opera House.

"We have been looking for a way to take our after-school program to the next level," said Director of Education Amy Roeder, "and students have been clamoring for more musicals. With the dedicated space to rehearse this dynamic piece, we can bring Coraline to glorious life!" This original musical by Stephin Merritt and David Greenspan tells the story of Coraline Jones, an 11-year-old who has just moved with her parents into a new flat in an old house. Bored by her colorless surroundings and neglected by her busy parents, she goes exploring and discovers a magic door and a passage to a strange but inviting new world. As this parallel universe becomes increasingly unsettling, Coraline must muster her bravery and resourcefulness to save her parents and herself.

Coraline includes many diverse roles and all students will be cast. Throughout the rehearsal process, students will receive instruction in the basic tenets of the craft, vocal training, and professional direction and choreography. The final performances will be fully produced and technically supported. Ben Layman will direct in collaboration with music director Larrance Fingerhut (Disney's Beauty and the Beast).

Fingerhut, co-owner of ImprovAcadia is also leading a weekly workshop for adults and teens on musical improvisation, February 3-24, one of Dramatic Academy's new offerings, along with an adult acting class led by actor and resident teaching artist Ben Layman,January 7-March 25.

Returning favorites include Improv II (for adults and older teens), the Young Adult Performance Conservatory (for teens 14 and up who are serious about the craft), Master Class Jr. (ages 6-12), February Vacation Camp (ages 4-13) and our Master Class series (for adults and youth ages 10 and up). For more information, a complete schedule of classes and to register, visit www.penobscottheatre.org/education.

Prospective students and/or their parents are encouraged to call (207) 947-6618, ext. 107for more information or to schedule a tour.