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School of Theatre Classes
Classes begin in SEPTEMBER so register today to secure your spot!
Our NEW year-long program offers a seamless, intentional journey for your student - starting with core acting techniques and building toward a fully staged performance.
Along the way, students will:
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Develop essential audition skills
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Build stage presence
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Gain hands-on rehearsal experience with professional guidance
This thoughtful progression ensures growth, confidence, and creativity throughout the year.
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Join us for a year of learning, creativity, and performance as we celebrate 30 years of theatre at Matthews Playhouse!

Visit your student's age group page for detailed class and production info
The Year At A Glance
Part 1: Foundations of Theatre
(10 classes)
September-November
Voice, movement, character, and creative play — students build the essential tools to thrive in performance settings.​​​​​​​
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Strengthen voice, movement, and stage presence
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Learn core acting and storytelling skills through interactive activities
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Build ensemble skills and self-confidence
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Prepares students for auditions and performances
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Part 2: Audition & Rehearsal Readiness
(6 classes)
A continuation of Part 1
January
From group games to mock auditions, students learn to present material, take direction, and collaborate confidently in a rehearsal room.
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Practice presenting material in front of others
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Learn how to follow stage cues and take direction
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Build confidence in rehearsal settings
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Older students prepare audition pieces (e.g., monologue or song)
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All students participate in a formal audition for the spring show
Part 3: Rehearsal & Full Production
(7-8 weeks)
A culmination of Parts 1 & 2
February-March
Students rehearse and perform in a fully produced show with costumes, sets, lighting, and professional guidance — culminating in live performances.
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Intensive rehearsal and production experience
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Fully staged performance with professional guidance
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TK–2nd Grade students participate in an adaptation of Goodnight Gorilla
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Grades 3–5 students choose either Annie Jr. or Aristocats Kids.*
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Grades 6–8 students choose either Newsies Jr. or Annie Jr.*
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Grades 9–12 students in acting classes prepare A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
*This choice determines the rehearsal schedule and final performance.





How the Program Works
Start With One Day A Week- Students begin with one class per week to build foundational skills and get comfortable with the process.​​
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Then Two Days A Week- Starting in January, classes increase to two days per week to focus on audition preparation and rehearsal etiquette.
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Rehearsals Begin- After casting, students will continue rehearsing to prepare for the final performance.
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Final Performance- The program culminates with a show for family, friends, and the community.​​
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What Makes This Program Special?
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A 3-part structure that focuses on learning first, performance second
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Updated curriculum based on what students need most
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More rehearsal time for a stronger, more confident production experience
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A committed class community that grows together throughout the year
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Why Choose the School of Theatre?
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Develop essential acting skills in a supportive, professional environment
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Build confidence in both auditions and performances
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Gain hands-on experience through a full production, with professional guidance
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Receive individualized attention, especially for younger students (TK–2nd grade) who benefit from smaller class sizes and more support
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Enjoy a seamless educational experience with no breaks between sessions, keeping them engaged throughout the year​

2025-2026 Tuition Pricing
TK-2nd Grade Classes - $250
3rd Grade-12 Grade Classes - $300
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Payment Due Upon Registration
TK-2nd Grade Classes - $150
3rd Grade-12 Grade Classes - $200
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Payment Due January 2026
TK-2nd Grade Classes - $300
3rd Grade-12 Grade Classes - $350
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Payment Due March 2026
Payment Options
Pay-in-Full Discount​
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Receive a discounted rate when you pay for the full year at the time of registration
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$600 (TK-2nd Grade)​
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$750 (3rd-12th Grade)
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Available only during initial registration before Sep 1, 2025
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Pay-As-You-Go Option​
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Prefer to spread out payments? Pay in three installments at the standard tuition rate
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$700 Total (TK-2nd Grade)​
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$250 due at registration (Part 1: Foundations of Theatre)
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$150 due by January 1, 2026 (Part 2: Audition & Rehearsal Readiness)
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$300 due by January 29, 2026 (Part 3: Spring Production)
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$850 (3rd-12th Grade)
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$300 due at registration (Part 1: Foundations of Theatre)
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$200 due by January 1, 2026 (Part 2: Audition & Rehearsal Readiness)
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$350 due by January 29, 2026 (Part 3: Spring Production)
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This option includes the full year and allows families to pay closer to each session’s start date.
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* Both payment options include all three parts of the year-long program. The Pay-in-Full option is optional but offers a $100 savings.
Questions? We've Got You!
Join us for a Parent Meeting this fall for a full walk-through and Q&A. We’ll explain everything on the first day of class, but if you have questions before then, feel free to:
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Visit our FAQ page
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Email us anytime at education@matthewsplayhouse.com