top of page
ShrekJr2 - 145.jpg

School of Theatre Classes

Celebrating 30 Years of Theatre for Everyone

At Matthews Playhouse, we believe theatre is for everyone. Whether new to the stage or an experienced performer, our year-round theatre program offers a continuous, progressive learning experience that develops confidence, creativity, and professional skills.

 

This year, we are embracing our 30th season with a renewed sense of purpose and excitement. Our revamped curriculum is designed to help students grow as both artists and collaborators, from foundational acting skills to a full-scale production. Every class is personalized to meet each student where they are, ensuring they succeed and thrive along the way.

 

Our year-long program guides students through a seamless, progressive experience, beginning with core acting techniques and culminating in a fully staged performance. Through this journey, they will learn audition skills, develop stage presence, and gain hands-on rehearsal experience with professional guidance.

 

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 grow.

MPHshare2 - 003.jpg
Welcome to the School of Theatre — Where Every Student’s Journey Matters

At Matthews Playhouse, our School of Theatre is more than just acting classes — it’s a year-long journey that builds confidence, skill, and joy in every student. Whether your child is brand-new to the stage or already in love with performing, we meet them where they are and help them grow.

​

As we celebrate our 30th season, the theme for the year is resilience — the ability to persist, grow, and overcome challenges. Theatre teaches these values both on and off the stage, helping students develop not only as performers but also as individuals. Join us for a year of creativity, learning, and performance in our School of Theatre. The year-long commitment offers a progressive, enriching experience that sets the stage for lasting success on stage and beyond!

​

What Makes This Program Special?

​

  • 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

​

Why Choose the School of Theatre?

​

  • By participating in this year-round program, your child will:

    • 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

​

person white.png

What's New This Year?

Our 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.

​

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.

The Year At A Glance

Part 1: Foundations of Theatre
(10 classes)

Voice, movement, character, and creative play — students build the essential tools to thrive in performance settings.​​​​​​​

  • Strengthen voice, movement, and stage presence

​

  • Learn core acting and storytelling skills through interactive activities

​

  • Build ensemble skills and self-confidence

​

  • Prepares students for auditions and performances

​​​​

Part 2: Audition & Rehearsal Readiness
(6 classes)
A continuation of Part 1

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

​

  • Learn how to follow stage cues and take direction

​

  • Build confidence in rehearsal settings

​

  • Older students prepare audition pieces (e.g., monologue or song)

​

  • 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

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

​

  • 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.

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.​​

​

Then Two Days A Week-  Starting in January, classes increase to two days per week to focus on audition preparation and rehearsal etiquette.

​

Rehearsals Begin- After casting, students will continue rehearsing to prepare for the final performance.

​

Final Performance-  The program culminates with a show for family, friends, and the community.​​

​

person white.png

2025-2026 Tuition Pricing

Part 1: Foundations of Theatre (10 sessions)

TK-2nd Grade Classes - $250

3rd Grade-12 Grade Classes - $300

​

Payment Due Upon Registration

Part 2: Audition & Rehearsal Readiness
(6 sessions)

TK-2nd Grade Classes - $150

3rd Grade-12 Grade Classes - $200

​

Payment Due January 2026

Part 3: Spring Production (7-8 weeks)

TK-2nd Grade Classes - $300

3rd Grade-12 Grade Classes - $350

​

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

​

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.

​

* 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:

​

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.
bottom of page