Next Actors is Getting a Fresh Coat of Paint!

By Pia Russo, Education Manager; and Tawnie Thompson, Development Manager

For 25 years, Next Actors: Summer Theatre for Teens (NASTT) has offered a safe place for high school-aged students to explore playwriting and performance skills as well as life skills including collaboration, confidence, public speaking, the art of enjoying a “sunbutter” (sunflower seed butter) and jelly sandwich in the park and so much more. While NASTT has served hundreds of students successfully in the past, the world is changing, and along with it, the needs of our youth have evolved. Next Act is incredibly excited to give an updated spin to this impactful program.

So, what’s different? This summer, Next Actors students will be offered the chance to participate in either or both of two shorter, two-week sessions. Participation in either session will also allow participants to take part in our tour week and combined final presentation in July.

During both two-week sessions, participants will take part in workshops with professional artists who will offer training in a variety of skillsets including improvisation, writing, music ensemble, stage lighting, stage combat and more! They will also work together to devise a performance piece to present to friends, family and the community. Prior to the first session, we are also offering an optional after-school Playwriting Workshop. As always, NASTT will be provided to students at no cost. Lunch and snacks will be provided during each program date and bus passes are offered to students who might need them.

If you know of any high school-aged students who are interested in learning more about Next Actors, they can get in touch with Pia Russo, Education Manager, via email at nextactors@gmail.com or by phone at 414.278.7780. Auditions will take place March through May – sign up now!