Shakespeare classes offered to youth in Cape May

This season Cape May Stage’s Education Outreach department offers students ages 9 to18 the “Summer SHAKESperience” program, Mondays through Fridays, Aug. 3-15.
Students will spend time learning from top-notch professionals and theatre artists in a two-week intensive acting program.
This summer’s production, Much Ado About Nothing, promises fun for actors and audiences alike.
Cape May Stage has established a history of educational programs that give students valuable experiences interacting with their peers and mentors. Students will explore acting techniques designed for creating believable characters and honest, spontaneous performances.
Under the direction of Cape May Stage’s Education Outreach Director Donald Toal, students will also learn methods for understanding and communicating Shakespeare’s language and style, as well as the background of his life and plays.
Toal has hired Temple graduate Mims Friedman Mast and DeSales University graduate Lisa Rigazio, who bring experience in performing, improv techniques, and vocal direction, to serve as guest teaching artists at this year’s program.
A select few students will also have the opportunity to serve as apprentices for the camp, shadowing a mentor-teacher and seeing the production process through the eyes of the director and production staff.
All teens and pre-teens with interest in the arts are encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity. Space is limited.
The two-week program will be held from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Robert Shackleton Playhouse, Bank and Lafayette sts., Cape May.
The $325 cost includes a half scholarship awarded to apprentices as compensation for their work.
Each student/parent must send an advance, non-refundable deposit of $50, and the must be paid by July 27. Checks can be made payable to Cape May Stage.
Further information and registration forms can be found and downloaded on the company’s Web site: capemaystage.com, or can be mailed by request.
For more information or to enroll today, call Cape May Stage at 609-884-1341.