When the actor believes, we believe. The child’s natural instinct for play is the foundation of the actor’s process. Using the game of make believe to get into the “shoes” of the character, we begin to play with the possibilities that game invites in us. In order to believe I am the character, I must begin to learn all I can about who “I” am in the role: what surrounds and affects me, what I know, where I have been and where I am going; what I want, and what I do to get it or to make it happen. We use improvisation to awaken and explore creative impulses. Theatre games and exercises expand imagination, awareness, concentration, expressivity, and help build skills of communication, cooperation, and collaboration. Through text work designed for the young performer, we make strong, specific, meaningful connection to the language and circumstances of the play, bringing the author’s words to life. Through acting, young people gain compassionate insight about themselves and about the world around them; gain poise and confidence; develop problem-solving skills; and engage with peers and mentors in a joyful, collaborative process.

• Learn more about the instructor
• Prerequiste: Open to All (ages 9-13)

This class for teenagers, ages 14-17, builds on the basics of the “Game of Make Believe” introduced in Acting for Young People, starting from improvisations and moving into work on scenes. You will discover how to use yourself, your experiences and imagination to create a character in a play or story. Your belief and whole-hearted commitment to the circumstances of the play make it real for the audience. In an atmosphere of creative play and self-discovery, you will come to understand and experience the level of preparation and discipline you will need to try for a place in the professional theater. We will learn how to prepare for auditions, do monologues, improvisations. We will prepare scenes and present them to our guests in the last class! Please bring a monologue to your first class.

• Learn more about the instructor
• Prerequisite: Open to All (ages 14-17)

This class for teenagers, ages 14-17, builds on the basics of the “Game of Make Believe” introduced in Acting for Young People, starting from improvisations and moving into work on scenes. You will discover how to use yourself, your experiences and imagination to create a character in a play or story. Your belief and whole-hearted commitment to the circumstances of the play make it real for the audience. In an atmosphere of creative play and self-discovery, you will come to understand and experience the level of preparation and discipline you will need to try for a place in the professional theater. We will learn how to prepare for auditions, do monologues, improvisations. We will prepare scenes and present them to our guests in the last class! Please bring a monologue to your first class.

• Learn more about the instructor
• Prerequisite: Open to All (ages 14-17)

Join us this summer at HB Studio for an immersive, week-long acting experience designed for teens ages 13–17. This dynamic intensive runs Monday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, offering young performers the opportunity to develop their craft in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Students will train with a team of experienced teaching artists in three core disciplines essential to every actor’s toolkit:

• Acting with Daniel Carlton
• Voice & Speech with Craig MacArthur Dolezel
• Movement with Demetrius Blocker

Through focused daily classes, participants will build confidence, strengthen their physical and vocal presence, and deepen their connection to character and text. The program emphasizes ensemble work, creative exploration, and practical techniques that students can carry into future performances and training. Whether you’re new to acting or looking to sharpen your skills, this intensive provides a rigorous and fun opportunity to grow as an artist alongside peers who share your passion. 

Session Dates:

• July 13-17
• August 3-7

Price for one session: $900.

Please bring a lunch. Teens also have the option of leaving the premises during lunch as long as a guardian approves it upon registering. 

When the actor believes, we believe. The child’s natural instinct for play is the foundation of the actor’s process. Using the game of make believe to get into the “shoes” of the character, we begin to play with the possibilities that game invites in us. In order to believe I am the character, I must begin to learn all I can about who “I” am in the role: what surrounds and affects me, what I know, where I have been and where I am going; what I want, and what I do to get it or to make it happen. We use improvisation to awaken and explore creative impulses. Theatre games and exercises expand imagination, awareness, concentration, expressivity, and help build skills of communication, cooperation, and collaboration. Through text work designed for the young performer, we make strong, specific, meaningful connection to the language and circumstances of the play, bringing the author’s words to life. Through acting, young people gain compassionate insight about themselves and about the world around them; gain poise and confidence; develop problem-solving skills; and engage with peers and mentors in a joyful, collaborative process.

• Learn more about the instructor
• Prerequiste: Open to All (ages 9-13)