Summer drama workshops just for kids, at SJCT

Published 11:39 am Wednesday, May 15, 2013

The San Juan Community Theatre has opened registration for two summer youth workshops, one as part of a new partnership with the Seattle Children’s Theatre, recognized as one of the top 20 regional theaters in the country.

Two instructors from the Seattle Children’s Theatre will visit Friday Harbor July 15-19 to hold workshops for island youth, and at the same time train island adults to teach theater arts. SJCT teachers Bryan Sullivan and Chris Dewar will lead classes for students in grades 1-3, 4-6 and 5-7.

At the culmination of SJCT’s week in Friday Harbor, students will present a performance showcase of their work in the Whittier Theatre, July 19.

“To have SJCT involved is incredible.” said Susan Williams, SJCT artistic director.  “We are so lucky to have this kind of dedication to the arts in our community.”

Williams adds that thanks to financial support during the “fund-a-need” for children’s programming at SJCT’s 2012 Holiday Festival, SJCT is expected to come to SJ island for four more years.

Following the Seattle Children’s Theatre workshops, SJCT instructors will present another week-long series of classes July 22-26. Instructors Penelope Haskew, Amanda Smith, Lisa Duke, Traci Wilson, Grace Castle and Angel Michaels will cover various facets of theater production, including acting, dancing, singing and behind-the-scenes work. The 90-minute, and the two-hour workshops are for children ages 6-12 and 13-18.

Registration details are available on-line at www.sjctheatre.org. Prices vary; scholarships are available for students on free-and-reduced lunch program. Info, Susan Williams, 378-3211, ext. 33.