THE SHakespeare Theatre of New Jersey accepting applications for junior and senior corps programs
Madison, NJ — The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is now accepting applications for its 2008 Junior Corps and Senior Corps, two summer theatre programs designed for students ages 11 to 14 and 14 to 17, respectively.
Now in their sixteenth year, the programs provide an arena in which young people can expand their performance skills and gain a deeper understanding of classic texts, while at the same time, meet new friends and have a great time. During each intensive session, students take classes, rehearse scenes, meet with professional artists from the Theatre’s Main Stage productions, and develop an original production based on classic literature. To register, or for more information, call 973-408-3980 or email
The Junior Corps
The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey’s Junior Corps is a two-week summer acting program for ages 11 through 14. The program offers a unique opportunity for aspiring young actors as well as youngsters making their first foray into theatre.
Each two-week Junior Corps session includes hands-on training in voice and speech for the stage, movement for the actor, Shakespeare’s text, improvisation, stage combat and scene study. The focus of the Junior Corps program is ensemble. Each session culminates in a short original production, adapted from Shakespeare or another piece of classic literature, which is performed before an audience of family members, friends, local residents and Shakespeare Theatre company members. While developing basic acting skills, the Junior Corps curriculum also emphasizes self-confidence, collaboration, creativity and teamwork. The Junior Corps offers two sessions during the summer: July 14 through 26, and July 28 through August 9. Classes are held Monday through Fridays from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.. No audition is required for admission into the Junior Corps, but space is limited. To register, or for more information, call 973-408-3980 or email jbgrant@shakespearenj.org.
The Senior Corps is a three-week program designed for students ages 14 to 17 who demonstrate an aptitude for performance or a strong interest in theatre. The Senior Corps builds upon the foundation of the Junior Corps curriculum with an enhanced focus on Shakespeare, the rehearsal process, performance techniques and the nuts and bolts of the profession.
Students take classes in voice and speech, movement for the actor, improvisation, Shakespearean scene study, stage combat and audition technique. The session culminates with a performance piece – either a collection of Shakespeare scenes, or a condensed version of a Shakespeare play – which is presented to family, friends, local community residents and Shakespeare Theatre company members. Admission to the Senior Corps is by audition only and space is limited.
Two sessions are offered this summer, the first from June 23 through July 12 and the second from August 4 through 23. Classes are held Monday through Friday, from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. To sign up for an audition slot, or for more information, call 973-408-3980 or email jbgrant@shakespearenj.org.
Tuition for each two-week Junior Corps session is $600. Returning students or children of 2008 Season subscribers receive a $100 discount. Enrollment is limited, so early registration is strongly encouraged.
Members of the Senior Corps are selected by audition only. The three-week sessions are $700 each. Returning students or children of 2008 Season subscribers receive a $100 discount.
To register for the Junior Corps, arrange a Senior Corps audition, or request additional information, contact Jamie Brink-Grant at 973-408-3980 or jbgrant@shakespearenj.org.