Adult Theatre in Lawrence

Creating On Stage

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Questions about Adult Theatre classes? Please call us at 785.843.2787 or contact us.

Uncover a Love of Theatre

We all have a performer inside of us, whether it’s through acting or writing. Adult theatre classes at Lawrence Arts Center don’t only focus on acting but all aspects that go into a theatre performance.

 This includes out-of-the-box classes focused on artistic expressions, like vogue, burlesque, improv, and more!

Our Facilities & Curriculum

Setting the Stage

We’re committed to providing the Lawrence area with a facility that welcomes them into the world of theatre and music. This includes dedicated spaces at our campus for adult theatre in Lawrence, with a 300-seat theatre, black box theatre and studio space for performances.

Enter Stage Left

The adult theatre classes we offer focus on developing the artist as well as the art. Classes cover everything from technical aspects of theatre to playwriting and beyond. The choice is yours! For our adult theatre classes, the descriptions list what to expect from the courses. We provide access to classes that cover (among other subjects):

  • Improv
  • Acting & Performance
  • Burlesque
  • Playwriting & Screenwriting

Current Classes

Adults on Stage
Burlesque [25FA]
09/2/25 - 11/18/25, 7:30PM - 8:25PM | TU
Ages 18 to 120 | Amie Montedoro | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTMA32
Members $240 | Non-Members $240
Join Lawrence Burlesque Society and learn to "Bump, Shimmy & Grind" & Shake what your Mama gave ya! Unleash your inner Las Vegas Showgirl as I teach you the basics as well as the history of a little performance art I like to call "The cure for self loathing". This class is eligible to participate in the Arts After Dark Showcase.
Drag 101[25FA]
10/7/25 - 11/18/25, 7:00PM - 7:55PM | TU
Ages 18 to 120 | Johnny Diablo | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTMA41
Members $140 | Non-Members $140
Explore the world of Drag, whether you want to be a Queen or King, all are welcome. Learn about the wigs, make-up, lip-sync, building a persona and performance! Ages 16+ can enroll with Parental Permission. This class is eligible to participate in the Arts After Dark Showcase.
The Unscripted Life: Improvisational Thinking for Real-Life Courage, Connection
10/16/25 - 11/20/25, 6:30PM - 7:55PM | TH
Ages 18 to 120 | TBD | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTMA54
Members $150 | Non-Members $150
Loosen the grip of perfectionism in this play-based workshop. Tap into creative insticts as we engage in improv-inspired, metaphor-driven exercieses that connect the dots between creativity, confidence, and real-life adaptability. Learn to respond more freetly to begin unfolding the "script" of real life. This class is eligible to participate in the Arts After Dark Showcase.

Acting, Improv & Performance
Intro to Drag[25SU]
07/3/25 - 07/25/25, 7:30PM - 8:55PM | TH
Ages 18 to 120 | Johnny Diablo | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | SUTMA41
Members $125 | Non-Members $125
Explore the world of Drag, whether you want to be a Queen or King, all are welcome. Learn about the wigs, make-up, lip-sync, building a persona and performance! Ages 16+ can enroll with Parental Permission.
Playwriting as Storytelling: A Workshop for Creative Works[25FA]
09/3/25 - 10/29/25, 7:00PM - 8:45PM | WE
Ages 14 to 120 | Chandler Classen | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTMA33
Members $250 | Non-Members $250
This class will explore playwriting as a way of telling stories on contemporary and relevant personal and social issues. We will explore the process of writing a play from inception to staging. The first half of the class will prioritize collaborative creative writing and the second will see us refine the work by "acting out" on the stage.
Adult Improv[25FA]
10/20/25 - 11/17/25, 6:30PM - 7:25PM | MO
Ages 18 to 120 | Chris Kramer | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | FTMA61
Members $100 | Non-Members $100
Learn to create surprising and hilarious scenes in this all-levels class. Build improv skills in a supportive group that encourages creativity, collaboration, and big laughs.
Adult Improv[25FA]
09/8/25 - 10/13/25, 6:30PM - 7:25PM | MO
Ages 18 to 120 | Chris Kramer | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | FTMA21
Members $120 | Non-Members $120
Learn to create surprising and hilarious scenes in this all-levels class. Build improv skills in a supportive group that encourages creativity, collaboration, and big laughs.
Movement for Actors[25FA]
10/15/25 - 11/19/25, 6:30PM - 7:25PM | WE
Ages 14 to 120 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | FTMA53
Members $120 | Non-Members $120
What is movement? From Commedia to clowning, physical theatre creates new possibilities for actors to connect to their bodies. In this course, actors will explore the basics of movement (time, weight, space and flow) and learn to utilize them in complex ways (improv, elemental work, animal work, clowning).
Movement for Young Actors[25FA]
09/6/25 - 10/4/25, 1:00PM - 1:55PM | SA
Ages 11 to 14 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | FTYM56
Members $100 | Non-Members $100
What is movement? Actors train their abilities (acting, singing, speech) but movement is often forgotten in the mix. In this course, students will explore the different elements that make up movement (space, weight, time and flow) and utilize these tools to broaden their movement choices as actors.
Musical Theatre Workshop[25FA]
09/6/25 - 10/11/25, 11:00AM - 12:25PM | SA
Ages 10 to 14 | Erin Zipper | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | FTYM46
Members $250 | Non-Members $250
This class gives intense focus to singing, dancing and acting simultaneously. Work with our seasoned professionals to sharpen your skills, prepare for auditions and perform.
Intro to Musical Theatre[25FA]
10/4/25 - 10/25/25, 10:00AM - 10:55AM | SA
Ages 7 to 12 | Gwentessa Alfie | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTYM96
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
Learn how to sing and dance! Explore the magic of Musical Theatre with friends!
Intro to Theatre[25FA]
09/6/25 - 09/27/25, 11:00AM - 11:55AM | SA
Ages 7 to 12 | Gwentessa Alfie | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTYM86
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
Learn about the magic of theatre! This class will let you dip your toe into acting, props, lights, costumes, makeup and backstage tech.
Commedia Dell'Arte[25FA]
09/3/25 - 09/24/25, 6:30PM - 7:55PM | WE
Ages 11 to 14 | Jeanne C. Averill | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | FYTM22
Members $100 | Non-Members $100
Learn improvisational and theatrical skills by studying and emulating the COMMEDIA DELL'ARTE, a comic improvisational form from Italy that uses known and loved comic characters who create and perform an improvisation-based sketch or play. We will present the play in variations of the traditional masks costumes such as the well-known Harlequin.
The Open Theatre Experience[25FA]
10/11/25 - 11/15/25, 1:00PM - 2:25PM | SA
Ages 11 to 14 | Jeanne C. Averill | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | FTYM116
Members $150 | Non-Members $150
The Open Theater was an experimental theater group active in NYC from 1963 to 1973. We will explore and demonstrate the profound power of the actor's imagination and the actor's ability to create place ( scenery ) through the power of vocal technique and the skill of transformation, not only of character but of time and place. Your voice and body will be thoroughly challenged by this unusual and creative approach to acting.
Theatre Sports[25FA]
09/8/25 - 10/6/25, 4:00PM - 4:55PM | MO
Ages 11 to 14 | Jeanne C. Averill | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FYTM11
Members $100 | Non-Members $100
Learn improvisational and theater skills through a variety of theater games that are often played by partners and teams.
Reader's Theatre[25FA]
09/6/25 - 10/11/25, 10:00AM - 10:55AM | SA
Ages 7 to 12 | Jillian Grieve | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | FTYM36
Members $120 | Non-Members $120
We will explore a reader's theatre script and put on a show! We will choose the stories together and decide what roles to play!
Adult Improv Performance Troupe[25FA]
09/8/25 - 11/17/25, 7:30PM - 8:25PM | MO
Ages 18 to 120 | Leah Towle | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | FTMA31
Members $220 | Non-Members $220
Members will create an ensemble, build confidence in improvising, and perform for the public at Final Fridays! Class performances will be on 9/26, 10/24, & 11/21. Must have taken an Arts Center improv class in the last five years or have instructor approval. This class is eligible to participate in the Arts After Dark Showcase.
Intro to Improv[25FA]
10/4/25 - 10/25/25, 11:00AM - 11:55AM | SA
Ages 7 to 12 | Leah Towle | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTYM106
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
Learn how to improvise for theater! Make up scenes, characters, jokes, and hone your acting skills through games!
A Play A Day: Trial Class[25FA]
08/19/25 - 08/26/25, 4:30PM - 5:25PM | TU
Ages 7 to 12 | Ric Averill | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTYM12T
Members $40 | Non-Members $40
Try before you buy for a whole session! Jump into acting though creative story playing. Each session features a new story, sometimes even two, that the group acts out in various combinations. Favorite stories maybe repeated. And there's music!
A Play A Day: Trial Class[25FA]
08/21/25 - 08/28/25, 4:30PM - 5:25PM | TH
Ages 11 to 14 | Ric Averill | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTYM14T
Members $40 | Non-Members $40
Try before you buy for a whole session! Jump into acting though creative story playing. Each session features a new story, sometimes even two, that the group acts out in various combinations. Favorite stories maybe repeated. And there's music!
A Play A Day: Storytelling Theatre[25FA]
10/30/25 - 11/20/25, 4:30PM - 5:25PM | TH
Ages 11 to 14 | Ric Averill | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FYTM64
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
Jump into acting though creative story playing. Each session features a new story, sometimes even two, that the group acts out in various combinations. Favorite stories maybe repeated. And there's music!
A Play A Day: Storytelling Theatre[25FA]
09/4/25 - 10/9/25, 4:30PM - 5:25PM | TH
Ages 11 to 14 | Ric Averill | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FYTM14
Members $120 | Non-Members $120
Jump into acting though creative story playing. Each session features a new story, sometimes even two, that the group acts out in various combinations. Favorite stories maybe repeated. And there's music!
A Play A Day: Storytelling Theatre[25FA]
10/28/25 - 11/18/25, 4:30PM - 5:25PM | TU
Ages 7 to 12 | Ric Averill | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FYTM52
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
Jump into acting though creative story playing. Each session features a new story, sometimes even two, that the group acts out in various combinations. Favorite stories maybe repeated. And there's music!
A Play A Day: Storytelling Theatre[25FA]
09/2/25 - 10/7/25, 4:30PM - 5:25PM | TU
Ages 7 to 12 | Ric Averill | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FYTM12
Members $120 | Non-Members $120
Jump into acting though creative story playing. Each session features a new story, sometimes even two, that the group acts out in various combinations. Favorite stories maybe repeated. And there's music!
Saturday Troupers[25FA]
09/6/25 - 11/15/25, 1:00PM - 1:55PM | SA
Ages 7 to 12 | Ric Averill | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTYM76
Members $220 | Non-Members $220
Create a new show and perform it! Students will learn to write, become storytellers, and build various pieces, to cultivate acting skills, and perform.
Audition Workshop[25FA]
10/18/25 - 11/15/25, 10:00AM - 10:55AM | SA
Ages 11 to 14 | Spencer Greenwood | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | FTYM136
Members $100 | Non-Members $100
Prep for the Spring Musical Audition! Learn confidence, from the moment you walk in the room, slate, present, strategies for dry reads, and call backs. Combat those nerves, and have audition success! Spencer is a featured teaching artist, and was recently the Trunchbull in our production of Matilda.
Step Up your Auditions[25FA]
10/13/25 - 11/17/25, 6:00PM - 6:55PM | MO
Ages 14 to 120 | Spencer Greenwood | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTMA51
Members $120 | Non-Members $120
Prep for the Spring Musical Audition! Learn confidence, from the moment you walk in the room, slate, present, strategies for dry reads, and call backs. Combat those nerves, and have audition success! Spencer is a featured teaching artist, and was recently the Trunchbull in our production of Matilda.
Bring the Funny[25FA]
09/3/25 - 10/22/25, 5:30PM - 6:25PM | WE
Ages 11 to 14 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | FYTM23
Members $160 | Non-Members $160
We play with comedy in all its forms in this fast-paced workshop. Explore stand-up, sketch, physical comedy, and creative storytelling. Make your audience chuckle and roar with laughter with a showcase at the end.
Moving Pictures: Stage & Screen [25FA]
09/8/25 - 09/29/25, 5:00PM - 5:55PM | MO
Ages 11 to 14 | TBD | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTYM21
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
Collaborate and create an original theatre and film piece.

Music
Old-Time String Band with Spencer & Rains: Bring a Friend[25FA]
10/21/25 - 11/18/25, 7:00PM - 8:25PM | TU
Ages 14 to 120 | Howard H Rains | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTMA42
Members $225 | Non-Members $225
Come learn traditional old-time music! Fiddle, guitar, mandolin, banjo, or bass. Knowledge of the style is not required but you should be able to play your instrument. All levels. Must bring own instrument. This class is eligible to participate in the Arts After Dark Showcase.
Irish Fiddle: Bring a Friend[25FA]
09/4/25 - 12/18/25, 4:30PM - 5:55PM | TH
Ages 7 to 14 | Annie Stark | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | FYTM24
Members $375 | Non-Members $375
Connecting with heritage music is a natural way to connect with culture. Students will learn fiddle tunes in a traditional style with opportunities to provide music for Irish dancers. Students must bring their own fiddle and bow, and have 2+ years of experience. No class Nov. 27.
Violin for Beginners[25FA]
09/4/25 - 12/18/25, 6:00PM - 7:25PM | TH
Ages 7 to 14 | Annie Stark | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | FYTM44
Members $375 | Non-Members $375
Beginner violin lessons in a small class format. Suitable for new beginners and for kids looking to hone their skills learned in school orchestra. No class Nov. 27.
Clarinet Fundies[25FA]
09/4/25 - 10/9/25, 5:30PM - 6:25PM | TH
Ages 10 to 13 | Justin Harbaugh | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FYTM34
Members $120 | Non-Members $120
Just starting out on the clarinet? This class will get you started off on the right foot. Learn the tips and tricks of dealing with those squeaky reeds, forming the embouchure, and having a great air stream. Enjoy making music sooner when the basics are all in place!
Clarinet Fundies: Crossing the Break[25FA]
10/16/25 - 11/20/25, 5:30PM - 6:25PM | TH
Ages 10 to 13 | Justin Harbaugh | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FYTM54
Members $120 | Non-Members $120
What's that key for on the back of the clarinet? That's the register key, and will get you up into the clarion register. Learn the tips and tricks of producing these beautiful tones with control and ease.
Me & YOUkulele[25FA]
11/1/25 - 11/22/25, 11:00AM - 11:55AM | SA
Ages 6 to 10 | Leah Towle | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTYM166
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
Get to know your ukulele with this beginner course! Students will learn simple chords and basic strumming patterns in a beginner friendly way. No music experience needed. Students must provide their own ukulele.
Music Makers[25FA]
11/1/25 - 11/22/25, 9:00AM - 9:45AM | SA
Ages 2 to 5 | Leah Towle | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | FTYM146
Members $70 | Non-Members $70
Are you always dancing around your house? Playing instruments or making noise? Join your young person and explore music through play!

Adult Theatre Gallery

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Arts After Dark 2023

Adult Improv

PANTS 2022

Arts After Dark 2023

PANTS 2022

PANTS 2022

PANTS 2022

Adult Improv Troupe

Adult Improv Troupe

Adult Improv Troupe

Arts After Dark 2023

Arts After Dark 2023

Adult Improv Troupe

Arts After Dark 2023

Arts After Dark 2023

Upcoming Performances

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2025 School of Dance Attire Swap + Meet & Greet

Stop by the swap! Bring your loved-and-laundered dance attire (leotards, shoes, jazz pants, etc.) and swap it for the next size, level, or a little newer! This event is donation-based and is facilitated by the School of Dance Staff, so please be aware that we cannot guarantee item availability. Gently used items must be dropped […]Read More

August 16

9:30AM

40th Year Celebration!

Come celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Early Childhood Education and Dance Programs. Enjoy fun and creative activities for the whole family. Catch up with alumni families and make new connections.Read More

August 23

10:00AM

2025 Dance Shoppe Pop-Up Shop

Are you looking to buy new dance attire items in Lawrence? Don’t miss Dance Shoppe of Kansas City‘s pop-up sale event at the Lawrence Arts Center! Meet with sales representatives from Dance Shoppe and get fit for your new dance attire, including new leotards, jazz pants, dance shoes, tights, and more! The pop-up store will […]Read More

December 31

6:00PM

woman performing on stage

Make Art Part of Their Daily Life

Interested in enrolling in adult theatre at Lawrence Arts Center School of Theatre & Music? We have financial aid available to those who need it to ensure classes are accessible to everyone.

women on stage in costumes

Take The Stage

Learn more about audition opportunities for our upcoming performances!

Auditions

Art is for Everyone

Making Art Accessible to All

Lawrence Arts Center is here to ensure anyone—of any age and any background—can connect with a supportive community and flex their creative muscles. With contemporary exhibitions, performances, and an array of music education classes for adults and kids, everyone will find something that’s right for them.

Our primary state-of-the-art facility at 940 New Hampshire St. features classrooms, studios, theatres, and more. To further support the community, we also have a space for classes and rehearsal at 10th & Mass Studios.

What's So Great About Our Adult Theatre Classes?