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School of Theatre Classes

Welcome to the School of Theatre

Where Every Student’s Journey Matters

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:

  • Develop essential audition skills

  • Build stage presence

  • 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! Our program provides a supportive, inclusive environment where every student is empowered to thrive.

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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.​​​​​​​

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Intensive rehearsal and production experience

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  • Fully staged performance with professional guidance

  • TK–2nd Grade students participate in an adaptation of Goodnight Gorilla

  • Grades 3–5 students choose either Annie Jr. or Aristocats Kids.*

  • Grades 6–8 students choose either Newsies Jr. or Annie Jr.*

  • Grades 9–12 students in acting classes prepare A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 

 

*This choice determines the rehearsal schedule and final performance.

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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

  • Updated curriculum based on what students need most

  • More rehearsal time for a stronger, more confident production experience

  • 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

  • Build confidence in both auditions and performances

  • Gain hands-on experience through a full production, with professional guidance

  • Receive individualized attention, especially for younger students (TK–2nd grade) who benefit from smaller class sizes and more support

  • Enjoy a seamless educational experience with no breaks between sessions, keeping them engaged throughout the year​

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2025-2026 Tuition Pricing

Part 1: Foundations of Theatre (10 sessions)

TK-2nd Grade Classes - $250

3rd Grade-12 Grade Classes - $300

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Payment Due Upon Registration

Part 2: Audition & Rehearsal Readiness
(6 sessions)

TK-2nd Grade Classes - $150

3rd Grade-12 Grade Classes - $200

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Payment Due January 2026

Part 3: Spring Production (7-8 weeks)

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​

  • Receive a discounted rate when you pay for the full year at the time of registration

    • $600 (TK-2nd Grade)​

    • $750 (3rd-12th Grade)

  • Available only during initial registration before Sep 1, 2025

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Pay-As-You-Go Option​

  •  Prefer to spread out payments? Pay in three installments at the standard tuition rate

    • $700 Total (TK-2nd Grade)​

      • $250 due at registration (Part 1: Foundations of Theatre)

      • $150 due by January 1, 2026 (Part 2: Audition & Rehearsal Readiness)

      • $300 due by January 29, 2026 (Part 3: Spring Production)

    • $850 (3rd-12th Grade)

      • $300 due at registration (Part 1: Foundations of Theatre)

      • $200 due by January 1, 2026 (Part 2: Audition & Rehearsal Readiness)

      • $350 due by January 29, 2026 (Part 3: Spring Production)

  • 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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Please be aware that class space is limited and registrations are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.  All classes are in-person.
If the State of North Carolina, the County of Mecklenburg, or the Town of Matthews puts in place a stay at home directive or mandate we will be required to comply. Our building is a town owned building.
We will continue class via ZOOM and no refunds or credits will be given.
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