nstructor: Patricia Hausman
Toddlers are developing and learning skills that will help them as they move into the PreK and Kinder setting. Through this class the students will be given the opportunity to exercise creativity and grow in their communication skills. We will learn about rhythm, colors, shapes, sounds, and how to use their imagination to create stories.

Instructor: Patricia Hausman
Students will learn about pantomime, character development, and basic theatre terminology. They will work on monologues and/or scenes, developing memorization skills, enunciation and projection, and movement.

Instructors: Patricia Hausman and Cody Hausman
We will begin with the audition process and how to prepare for performance. The students will be cast in a one act play and through the course will learn about character development, movement, character interaction, and technical aspects of putting a production together.

Instructor: Donna Provencher
Studies have repeatedly shown that the performing arts can improve social skills, enhance confidence, develop communication through emphasis on vocal projection, articulation and nonverbal cues, and reduce stress for autistic and ADHD students.

In this fully inclusive class taught by a neurodivergent teacher, director and autism advocate, designed specifically for ADHD and autistic young actors, we will focus on improving acting technique while building self-esteem, teamwork, communication and life skills.

Growing as a neurodivergent actor can present a host of challenges others may not face: sensory considerations, a need to balance routine with novelty, communication challenges, processing differences, and a need for increased cognitive flexibility.

Here we will incorporate neurodivergence-affirming technique: sensory-friendly lighting and noise levels, flexible learning methods, clear expectations, consistent routines, verbal and non-verbal communication skills, positive reinforcement and encouragement of authentic personal expression as we approach more traditional scene work/monologue work/improv exercises and work toward showcasing a final performance. We will also examine how to avoid autistic/ADHD overstimulation, meltdown and burnout in the arts; how to make use of all available adaptations and accommodations; and how to self-advocate effectively to accommodate your own needs.

Feel free to bring stuffies, stim toys or comfort objects to class – all are welcome!