Educational Philosophy and Curriculum

Welcome to theatre classes at NEYT! We offer three levels of instruction: 1) Foundations, 2) Intermediate Theatre Studies and 3) Advanced Theatre Studies. In each of these levels students can sample a wide array of classes and instructors while experiencing a variety of challenges.  Furthermore, to promote depth of study and maturation, students are required to take at least two classes within a given level and to be of appropriate age before moving on to the next level.  We are excited about this commitment to our students' progress and about continued clarity regarding the learning path through NEYT.  It is vitally important to us that kids share not only the joy and thrill of performance but also the tremendous satisfaction of skill development, knowledge acquisition, fully supported risk-taking and failure that can happen in the classroom.

    While individual class offerings vary from semester to semester, generally there are offerings for children as young as five years of age on up to adult. There are classes for home-schoolers, and children with disabilities (see our Theatre Adventure Program). Theatre classes can include Acting (physical and vocal skills, scene study, character development, improvisation, clowning, and more); Technical Theatre (lighting, costuming, set and scene design, and more—see Technical Theatre Program); Directing; Playwriting, and more.

    Generally, there are two semesters of classes, in the fall and winter,  each about 8 weeks long. In spring we present the Salmagundi Theatre Festival, with stellar visiting artists performing and teaching an array of skills for all ages.  Summer brings 1-3 week intensive theatre programs (See Summer Programs). Fall classes start in early September, Winter classes begin in early January and Salmagundi is in May. Specific class offerings are posted on this website typically about 6 weeks before the first day of classes. Generally, classes meet once or twice a week after school; classes for younger children may meet for an hour at a time, classes for older children may meet for as long as 2 hours. Sometimes weekend workshops are offered as well.     We strongly encourage you to visit our faculty bios under the About Us link; we have many highly qualified and experienced faculty members. Registration starts as soon as classes are posted. Financial aid is available, and applications are usually due about two weeks before classes begin. Please contact the NEYT office at 246-6398 ext. 101 for more specific information about classes.