NEW FOR 2012!
FAMILY FRIDAY WORKSHOPS
Every Friday July 6 - August 10, 4-6PM
FREE
This year, WTF introduces a new program which offers kids and their families a behind-the-scenes look at all that happens at the Festival each summer.
Young people aged 8-14, and their families, can join us for a series of free afternoon workshops that will explore the realms of playwriting, improv, costume design, technical tricks, and more that are part of daily creative life at the Festival. Each session will feature a mix of activities targeted for kids aged 8-10 and 11-14. Workshops will be led by professional Festival artists and members of the WTF Apprentice Company.
Space is limited and reservations are strongly recommended for all workshops. Contact the Festival Box Office at 413-597-3400 to reserve. All sessions will start in the ‘62 Center Lobby at 4pm and all children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
After the afternoon workshops, we encourage you to enjoy a family picnic on the theater lawn before attending an evening performance. For Friday evening Main Stage performances, families can get one free ticket for a child 18 or under with each full-price adult ticket purchased.
WORKSHOP SCHEDULE
July 6 - "2b or not 2b”
Shakespeare with Mikaela Feely-Lehmann
Direct from The Public Theater Shakespeare Lab in NYC, Mikaela Feely-Lehmann will make Shakespearean actors of us all! Explore life in Elizabethan England, learn to speak the words “trippingly on the tongue,” or learn a Renaissance dance to impress your “star-crossed lover.”
July 13 - "Just Kidding Around"
Comedy with John Dixon
John Dixon is a professional teacher, improviser, and member of The Story Pirates who has performed across the country. John will be our guest host for this special Family Friday and he is ready to release your inner comedian. Through games, jokes, and improvised scenes, everyone will have a chance to get some laughs. A full workout for your funny bone.
July 20 - “Elementary, My Dear Watson”
Backstage at WTF Free Theatre
Cast members from WTF’s The Valley of Fear will lead you on a whodunit-themed backstage/on-stage tour of their show. See first-hand what it takes to put on a professional show (and solve a mystery) each night!
July 27 - “Testing, 1…2…3…”
Behind the Scenes with Lights and Sound
Every show at the Festival is powered by hundreds of high-tech lighting instruments, miles of cabling, and amazing audio gear - not to mention crews of hard-working technicians and designers who make the magic happen. This session is a rare opportunity to learn more about the artistry and technology that makes our shows look and sound so good.
August 3 - “One Singular Sensation”
Musical Theatre
Become the coveted “triple threat” - Actor/Singer/Dancer! Learn a dance from a professional choreographer, rehearse a chorus number around the piano, and act out a Tony-winning moment from a great musical - all in an afternoon!
August 10 - “Prop Till You Drop”
Behind the Scenes with Props and Costumes
Try out actual costumes and props from the WTF archives and act out the scenes that they inspire. Learn from theatre professionals how costumes and props get designed and try your hand at basic sewing and building techniques. Sketch/dream-up/invent the most outrageous costumes and props you can imagine!