FST Summer Youth Program Announces Classes, Starts 6/3

Florida Studio Theatre's Youth Summer Theatre Program begins June 3, 2008. The class schedule, under the direction of Kate Alexander, has something to offer everyone in the theatre spectrum. Interested youth and teens can experience behind-the-scene classes from the Kid's Classic Performing Arts Camp to Teen Improv. All Classes are Monday through Friday, except where otherwise noted.

Youth Program
Little Theatre Ages 5 - 6

For our little theatre artists who have participated in kindergarten, an exploration of all aspects of the theatre. This class emphasizes acting and includes music and dance. Culminates in a final performance.

Session I; June 2 - June 19; 9:00 am - 1:00 pm; Fee: $405
Session II; June 23 - July 10; 9:00 am - 1:00 pm; Fee: $405

Kid's Classic Performing Arts Camp Ages 8-12
Prerequisite: Kids' Classic Company or 2 years of the summer theatre program. For students with a solid FST acting method, this 4 1/2 week summer intensive will be led by Kate Alexander and Beth Duda. This class focuses on nurturing the individual artistry of each child while developing truth on stage. In a challenging and spirited environment, this in-depth session will allow extended time for the acting process. Culminates in a final performance. Interested students can participate in Special Music at 9:15 am, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Session I; June 3 - July 3; 10:15 am - 3:15 pm; Fee: $595

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Children's Performing Arts Camp Ages 7-12

Our traditional camp with extensive acting, voice, improvisation, and dance training in a spirited environment. This class focuses on nurturing the individual artistry of each child while developing truth on stage. Classes will be held daily in acting, music, and movement. Students are divided according to age and level of ability. Culminates in a final performance. Interested students can participate in Special Music at 9:15 am, Tuesdays & Thursdays.

Session IA (Culminates in a Saturday morning recital); June 2 - June 20; 10:00 am - 3:00 pm; Fee: $475

Session II (Culminates in an afternoon recital); June 23 - July 10; 10:00 am - 3:00 pm; Fee: $475

Session III (Culminates in an afternoon recital); July 27 - August 19; 10:00 am - 3:00 pm; Fee: $525* 3 ½ week session.

Intro to Theatre Ages 8-12

Have you ever wanted to try theatre camp? This 1-week specialty camp offers an introduction to FST programming. Session includes acting, improvisation, and dance with a final open class for parents.

July 20 - July 24; 9:00 am - 2:00 pm; Fee: $165

Mini Session Ages 7-12

A program that is geared to the newcomer with daily classes in acting, dance, and music. This 2 week session will culminate in an afternoon open class.

July 13 - July 24; 9:30 am - 2:30 pm; Fee: $315

Teen Program
Teen Workshop Ages 13-17

Theatre for the young adult with a concentration in acting, improvisation, voice, and movement. Each session will include two classes: Beginning and Advanced. Culminates in a final performance.

Session I: Monday - Thursday; June 2 - June 22; 3:15 pm - 6:00 pm; Fee: $395

Session II: Monday - Thursday: June 30 - July 20; 3:15 pm - 6:00 pm; Fee: $395

Teen Improv Ages 13-17

For the teens in our Classic Acting program or with experience, the Teen Improv workshop challenges improvisational skills in a lively and creative environment. A final open class revue will be held on our Cabaret stage.

Monday - Thursday; July 27 - August 7; 3:15 pm - 6:00 pm; Fee: $295
V.I.P. Camp

A performing Arts Camp for students with special needs including blind, physically, and mentally challenged youth. This program includes: acting, art, dance, and singing. Culminates in a final performance.

July 6 - July 18; 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm; Fee: Scholarship

Young Performer's Company Ages 13-17

Prerequisite: Participation in the Classic Acting Program. A special program that works in conjunction with our VIP Camp. Students will attend advanced workshops in the morning and build the VIP show in the afternoon.

July 6 - July 18; 10:00 am - 4:30 pm; Fee: $315

All classes are held in FST's professional rehearsal studios in the heart of downtown Theatre and Arts District 1241 North Palm Avenue. Prices range from $165 - $595. Reservations can be made by contacting FST's Education department at 366.1350.

The Education Program is under the direction of Kate Alexander, Associate Director of FST. The adult teaching staff is comprised of a core of theatre professionals trained to teach free from personal dictates. Our methodology helps each person find his or her own "door" to creative achievement. In addition, guest artists and teachers visit throughout the session.
Known as Sarasota's Contemporary Theatre, Florida Studio Theatre was founded in 1973 by Jon Spelman. Starting out as a small touring company, FST traveled to places such as migrant camps and prisons. The company eventually settled down into a permanent home, acquiring the former Woman's Club building - now renamed the Keating Theatre. In the years that followed, Florida Studio Theatre established itself as a major force in American Theatre, presenting contemporary theatre in its three theatre venues: the Keating Theatre, the Goldstein Cabaret and its newest space, the Gompertz Theatre.

Even with its growth, Florida Studio Theatre remains firmly committed to making the arts accessible and affordable to a broad-based audience. Under Richard Hopkins, Artistic Director and CEO, FST develops theatre that speaks to our living, evolving, and dynamically changing world. As FST grows and expands, it continues to provide audiences with challenging, contemporary drama and innovative programs.