What is Charleston Stage's TheatreSchool?
Charleston Stage's TheatreSchool classes are designed to introduce young people to the world of theatre by providing students of all ages with the means to actively explore the dramatic process, craft, and the discipline of performing. We strive for our students to develop their own unique creative voice, their imaginations, and their understanding of theatre and performance techniques. Our goal is not to make students the next Broadway or movie stars, but to provide them with skills that will serve them in life and whatever profession they one day choose.
What happens in a typical class?
Classes begin with warm-ups. An actor's tools are their voice, body, and imagination, and we do activities and games to get them ready and focused. Classes include developing plots, creating characters, and most importantly sharing a story with the audience. Clarity, projection, and body positions on stage are all part of performing, and we include these as well as the vocabulary used in this special field. The goal of every class is to teach young performers the skills they need to articulate ideas, work as part of a group, problem solve, and think creatively whether onstage or off.
How do I register for classes?
Online registration is the fastest and easiest way to enroll. You can choose your class, enter your student's information, and select your payment method, all on your own and in one visit.
You can pay by credit card or by check. Entering your card information does not automatically charge you. Our staff will confirm your preferred payment schedule before making any charges. If you'd rather pay by check, select that option at checkout and mail your payment to Charleston Stage, PO Box 356, Charleston, SC 29402. Tuition is non-refundable.
How will I receive confirmation?
If you pay by credit card, we will confirm when you pay. If you are mailing a check, we will email a confirmation when we receive the check.
How many students are in each class?
Each class has a minimum and maximum number of students. Minimum enrollment is generally five students, and Charleston Stage reserves the right to cancel any class with insufficient enrollment. The maximum number of students varies with each class, but is usually 18.
What does my child need for class?
Students should come dressed in comfortable clothes they can move in and must wear sneakers. Skirts, dress clothes, flip flops, or sandals should not be worn. Students may want to bring a water bottle. A folder to keep scripts and handouts in and a pencil are also recommended.
Where are classes?
All classes are held at the Charleston Stage: West Ashley. See our Parking & Directions page for details.
What is Jr. Company?
We also have three Jr. Company groups for students in grades 3–5, 6–8, and 9–12. These classes are for advanced students and meet throughout the school year. Admission to Jr. Company is by audition only. Only students accepted into Jr. Company may audition for Charleston Stage productions.
Can I try a class before enrolling?
We don't offer trial classes, but our monthly payment option is a great way to get started. If you choose monthly payments, you can attend for a month and see how it fits. If you decide not to continue, just let us know before your next payment and we won't charge you again.
What does a typical Junior Company schedule look like?
Junior Company students take three hour-long classes each week throughout the year. In the fall, optional Saturday rehearsals give students extra time to sharpen their skills and prepare for upcoming performances.
This year, Junior Company is traveling to Disney Imagination Campus to perform! In the spring, students rehearse their musical on Saturdays, and these rehearsals are mandatory. High School Junior Company follows the same weekly class schedule and can join the Disney trip. Instead of a separate company musical, High School Jr. Company students are cast in one of our mainstage productions, so they don't have required Saturday company rehearsals. Mainstage rehearsals and performances take place on evenings and weekends, and we share a full rehearsal calendar once casting is complete.
I missed Junior Company auditions. Can I still submit?
We review late requests on a case-by-case basis, but we typically don't add new students once classes and rehearsals have begun for the year. If you've missed auditions, please reach out to our education team, and we'll let you know if there's an opportunity to join. In the meantime, our TheatreSchool classes are a great way to keep training and get ready for next year's auditions.
Can my child enroll in the pre-professional classes Junior Company students take?
Pre-professional classes are open by director's approval. If you think your student would be a good fit, please reach out to our education team, and we'd be happy to discuss whether these classes are the right next step.
