“Stepping into the Spotlight”: Acting Class
Always wanted to try acting? This six-week beginner course is the perfect place to start! No experience needed—just a willingness to jump in and have fun. Each week, you’ll explore essential acting skills like character movement, vocal projection, script analysis, blocking, and stage presence through interactive exercises and improv games. Throughout the course, you’ll partner up to rehearse, memorize, and block a short two-person scene, culminating in a showcase performance!
Five extra rehearsal opportunities will be provided with assistance from Bradbury Stearns.
Course cost is $275.
Class size: 4 to 8 students Six Wednesdays, May 27 – July 1, 6:00 - 8:30 PM
“Drafting the Drama” Playwriting Workshop
Each class of this unique intensive workshop is designed to open new horizons and insights for the neophyte and experienced writers alike. Learn practical, advanced, and subtle techniques used by professional playwrights. Gain confidence in your writing abilities, and bring your ideas to life on the page in an engaging and supportive environment. Some of the scripts from this “Drafting the Drama” workshop will be used in the “Stepping into the Spotlight” acting class that immediately follows this workshop. At the conclusion of the acting class, students perform the selected scripts before a live audience. Whether you’re writing your first scene or looking to sharpen your storytelling skills, this course is for you!
Course cost is $375.
Class size: 4 to 6 students Eight Tuesdays, March 10 – April 28, 6:00 - 8:30 PM
About the Author
Matt Bessette is a playwright, educator, poet, and editor with over a decade of storytelling experience. Of the 15 scripts he has written (ranging from 10-minute shorts to 3-hour verse epics) five have been published, and all have been produced. He has directed dozens of theatrical productions and edited full-length novels, bringing both artistic and practical expertise to the classroom.
Currently in his sixth year as an 8th-grade English teacher, Matt was honored as Teacher of the Year the very first time he was eligible. He also runs a private narrative consultation business, where he helps writers sharpen their scripts and novels. One client, who has returned for more than 10 sessions, writes, “Matt has the energy, enthusiasm, knowledge, and passion for the craft of writing, and it all comes across in an organized and thorough manner.”
A lifelong student of the craft, Matt has spent the past four years devouring every major book on writing theory (filling the shelves with insights from masters like McKee, Truby, Snyder, and Vogler) and distilling that knowledge into practical, beginner-friendly lessons. He hopes he can share his knowledge and passion with you!