Stagecrafters Announces 1000 Hats Summer Improv Camp

Stagecrafters proudly announces the return of 1000 Hats, Stagecrafters Youth Improv summer camp, July 16 through July 27, at the Baldwin Theatre in downtown Royal Oak. Taught by veteran improv teacher and performer Mike Lomas, 1000 Hats has been a favorite at Stagecrafters for over ten years.

The name "1000 Hats" refers to the many characters and roles a student of improv plays. Through games, role playing and exercises, students have fun trying on different 'hats'--one minute they might be a superhero tossing a fireball around a circle of other superheroes, and the next they're on vacation with friends, trying to figure out how to fit their souvenir live elephant into a suitcase.

"Probably the most frequent feedback we get about 1000 Hats from kids is that it's fun," says Stagecrafters executive director Suzanne Wiggins. "And what we hear again and again from parents is that they can't believe how much confidence their son or daughter gains in just two weeks."

While improv is certainly fun, the 1000 Hats students are actually learning valuable life skills. As they build stories and scenes together using only their imaginations, they're learning creativity and cooperation. As teacher Mike Lomas likes to say, it's not necessarily about being funny-though it can be-it's about learning to listen and respond to one another constructively. In the process, students improve listening skills, learn to cooperate and to think on their feet when the unexpected happens.

Classes are structured for two different age groups. Classes for 8 to 12 year olds (9am to 11am) will focus on learning improv through daily games and activities that build the students' skills and develop their confidence and ease in a positive and supportive environment.

New this year for 13 to 17 year olds (12pm to 2pm) is a combination improv and scene writing class. Students will still learn improv skills in a fun and positive setting, and they'll have the added bonus of learning scene writing, developing short and long forms of comedy sketches.

On the last day of classes, all students will participate in an Improv Showcase to show all they've learned.

The cost for 1000 Hats is $200 if enrolled by June 15. After June 15 the cost is $225. Two family members receive a 25% discount if enrolled by June 15, 2018.

For questions please call 248-541-8027, email info@stagecrafters.org with the subject line "1000 Hats" or visit our website at http://stagecrafters.org/get-involved/1000-hats-improv.html.

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