RPAC Classes (High School)

A 12 week performing arts program

Classes begin: March 12 / Classes end: June 8 / RPAC break: April 6th – 15th

Acting and Expression – Julian Rozzell Jr.
The focus of this class is learning the principals and fundamentals of acting. Such as ‘listening and responding’, ‘point of view’, and ‘objective’. Through ensemble building, scene study and character development students will further their knowledge on how to approach any acting scene or role. The class will culminate with a student sharing of a monologue.

Shakespeare through Voice – Shawn Renfro
Finding the actors voice or ‘note’ is crucial for any performer. We each have our own unique voice but do not necessarily know how to access it. In this class students will learn various techniques using Shakespeare’s text to access and use their true voice, while also learning how to interpret the text itself. Starting with sonnets them moving into scene’s students will acquire a wide range of both breath technique and applying the voice to Shakespeare.

The Art of Improv – Shawn Renfro
Learning to Improvise! Students will get explore the fundamental principles of improvisation through exercises in agreement, commitment, spontaneity and listening. Sessions are designed so students will build a strong foundation as a confident performer. The class is about bringing who you are, all your knowledge and experience, your point of view and your tastes, and then applying concrete techniques as you play with focused abandon with other smart people doing that same thing. Improv is also a powerful tool, useful in every aspect of a person’s life. And once the techniques become second nature… well, you’ll see.

Musical Theater* – Richard Amelius
This class is designed to teach the singing actor how to approach the interpretation and performance of a musical theatre song. After exploring the appropriate repertoire for each individual, emphasis will be placed on integrating the connection with the lyrics, phrasing, physicality, vocal challenges and performance techniques. Issues to be addressed will include “informing” the lyric; subtext; vocal technique; applying physical gestures authentically; making strong choices; and, performance versus audition technique. Class will culminate with an informal recital.

*Accompanist provided throughout course

Introduction to Playwriting – Maryrose Wood
In this 12 week class, we will explore the fundamentals of how to write for the stage: dramatic structure, the development of character through conflict, subtext, dialogue. Through writing prompts and exercises, we’ll begin developing short pieces which will be critiqued in a supportive workshop format. The class will culminate with a public reading of selected excerpts by a cast of experienced actors.

Principles of Stage Combat – David Dean Hastings
Ever wondered how an Actor on Broadway performs a scene where there is a fight in it eight times a week, and never gets hurt? Or how those action movie fights are done? This class will let you in on some of the secrets behind the theatrical magic! The beginning Actor has many disciplines to learn. Among the more fun skills is Stage Combat, which is the study of how to safely achieve believable conflict onstage through techniques and good storytelling. This course will teach high school actors the essential foundation of unarmed stage combat: the basic tenets of safety (distance, eye contact, partnering), Getting Your Fierce On (moving from your center), and Effective Techniques for… slaps, punches, blocks, kicks, chokes, falls, grabs, and avoidances. No previous experience necessary. We provide focus mitts and pads.

Behind the Scenes – Designer’s Delight – Penny Margeotes, David Pentz, JB Barricklo
In Designer’s Delight, artists will have the opportunity to explore Lights, Sound, Costume and Set Design. As an added bonus, this class will also feature a workshop on Stage Management. Students will learn with working professionals in a fun hands-on environment, and possibly work on RRS productions, where they will see their work on stage. This class is for the well rounded Artist, behind, rather than in front, of the spotlight.

RRS Choir “Glee” – Lesly de Groot
This combo course focuses on showcasing individual singers within ensemble pieces. Movement, music, and story telling take center stage while recreating highlights from Broadway, jazz and standard ballads. Students begin to incorporate ensemble vocal warm up, ear training, breathing and diction. Excellent performance platform and prerequisite to voice lessons. Potential premiere touring ensemble for Riverdale Rising Stars!

Access the Arts – TBA
Access the Arts consist of classes, workshops and performance opportunities that enable area youth with physical, cognitive or developmental delays to fully participate in the musical theatre arts.  Dedicated to developing participants’ skills in acting, singing, dance (and thereby the related areas of communication skills, speech and gross motor development) Access the Arts features traditional musical theatre courses adapted to meet the needs of all participants, taught by professionally trained teaching artists and special educators.

Open to All Ages

Private Audition Prep for High School and College (Voice and Acting)

Private tutorials will allow for maximum rehearsal time and attention. Take advantage of this opportunity and sign up for a private tutorial with a member of our staff today.  Voice tutorials will take place in our private studios, each equipped with a piano.

To schedule a lesson or to find out more information email us at PerformingArts@riverdaley.org