Youth Theatre Classes in Lawrence

Theatre is for Everyone

kids in a classroom

Open the Curtain to a New Community

Does your child embrace the dramatic? Whether it’s a flair for performance, a love of theatre, an interest in music, or simple curiosity—exploring theatre could be right for them!

Youth theatre classes at Lawrence Arts Center go beyond acting, covering all aspects that go into a theatre performance. This includes music performance, stage lighting, set building, costuming, and everything else that makes a theatre production possible.

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 our dedicated spaces at our primary and satellite locations for youth theatre in Lawrence, plus a 300-seat theatre for performances.

Enter Stage Left

The youth theatre classes we offer focus on developing the artist as well as the art. Classes cover everything from technical aspects of theatre—like stage lighting and set building—to performance and beyond. The choice is yours!

For our youth theatre classes, the descriptions list what to expect from the courses. The goals of our youth theatre classes include skill building, exploration, play, and more!

Current Classes

Acting, Improv & Performance

Adult Improv[25WSP]
03/24/25 - 04/21/25, 6:30PM - 7:25PM | MO
Ages 18 to 120 | Chris Kramer | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | STMA11
Members $100 | Non-Members $100
Learn the fundamentals of improv or refine your skills with fun games and exercises. Come meet new people and create surprising and hilarious scenes!
Musical Theatre Workshop[25WSP]
03/29/25 - 04/19/25, 11:00AM - 12:30PM | SA
Ages 10 to 18 | Erin Zipper | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | STMY66
Members $150 | Non-Members $150
Get ready for Summer Youth Theatre! 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. This course pairs well with Summer Youth Theatre: Audition Techniques
Summer Youth Theatre: Audition Techniques[25WSP]
03/29/25 - 04/19/25, 1:00PM - 1:55PM | SA
Ages 10 to 18 | Jeanne C. Averill | 10th & Mass Studios
Completed | STMY68
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
It is nearly time for Summer Youth Theatre auditions! We will explore what to expect at an audition, work on selected monologues, and give feedback on strengthening audition presentations. This course pairs well with Musical Theatre Workshop. Jeanne is a member of Actors' Equity Association and the Screen Actors Guild.
Acting Fundies[25WSP]
04/1/25 - 04/29/25, 5:00PM - 5:55PM | TU
Ages 7 to 12 | Jeanne C. Averill | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | STMY21
Members $100 | Non-Members $100
Do you have a young dramatic person in your life? Get them in this class so they can hone their skills and start building their acting fundamentals.
Musical Theatre Exploration[25WSP]
03/29/25 - 04/19/25, 11:00AM - 11:55AM | SA
Ages 7 to 12 | TBD | Lawrence Arts Center
Class is Full - contact about waitlist | STMY65
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
Learn how to sing and dance! Let's explore the magic of Musical Theatre together.
Treasure Trunk: An Acting Exploration[25WSP]
03/29/25 - 04/19/25, 1:00PM - 1:55PM | SA
Ages 7 to 12 | Jillian Schwartz | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | STMY67
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
Come open our treasure trunk filled with delightful objects, mysteries and surprises. Students build acting skills to tell stories, use their voices, bodies and imaginations every week.
Adult Improv: Summer Session[25SU]
06/2/25 - 07/28/25, 6:30PM - 7:55PM | MO
Ages 18 to 120 | Leah Towle | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | SUTMA11
Members $195 | Non-Members $195
Ready for a spontaneous and hilarious challenge? Spend your summer with us and build your improv skills, learn new games, and meet new people. This course takes place at 10th & Mass Studios. No class on June 23rd.
Intro to Adult Acting: Bring a Friend[25SU]
05/28/25 - 06/18/25, 7:00PM - 7:55PM | WE
Ages 18 to 120 | Jeanne C. Averill | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | SUTMA21
Members $100 | Non-Members $100
Open to beginner and experienced students, this class will explore how an actor studies a role, develops a character, and builds their portfolio. Bring a friend or family member with you to class (at no extra charge) to be your acting partner! You'll leave ready with skills you can immediately apply toward auditions and performance.
Intro to Drag[25SU]
07/3/25 - 07/25/25, 7:30PM - 8:55PM | TH
Ages 18 to 120 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | 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.

Family Play

Imagination & Adventure

Fairytopia[25WSP]
03/29/25 - 04/19/25, 10:00AM - 10:55AM | SA
Ages 3 to 6 | Jillian Schwartz | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | STMY63
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
We will create and play as fairy characters, make our own world and work together as we go!
Imagination Land[25WSP]
03/29/25 - 04/19/25, 9:00AM - 9:55AM | SA
Ages 3 to 7 | Leah Towle | Lawrence Arts Center
Class is Full - contact about waitlist | STMY61
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
In this music and drama class we will sing, dance, and act out adventures through Imagination Land. What might we find, hear, and do there? Join us to find out where our imagination takes us!

Music

Old-Time String Band with Spencer & Rains[25WSP]
03/25/25 - 04/22/25, 7:00PM - 8:25PM | TU
Ages 14 to 120 | Tricia J Spencer | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | STMA22
Members $200 | Non-Members $200
Old-time repertoire and ensemble class for fiddle, guitar, banjo, mandolin and bass. Knowledge of the style is not required, but participants should have an instrument and be able to play.
Irish Fiddle: Youth[25WSP]
03/27/25 - 04/24/25, 4:30PM - 5:55PM | TH
Ages 7 to 13 | Annie Stark | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | STMY41
Members $125 | Non-Members $125
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 violin and have 2+ years of experience.
Me & YOUkulele[25WSP]
03/29/25 - 04/19/25, 10:00AM - 10:55AM | SA
Ages 6 to 10 | Jordan Mills | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | STMY64
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.
Smart Start Music[25SU]
07/1/25 - 07/24/25, 2:30PM - 3:20PM | TU, TH
Ages 3 to 4 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | SUTMY22
Members $210 | Non-Members $210
Music classes for ages 2 and 3 are great fun for everyone. Smart Start is a research-based program offering music for young children that incorporates movement, singing, playing instruments and learning the fundamentals of music. The class offers social play-based activity and builds skills such as attention, memory, perception, cognitive flexibility, and creativity. The four-week course meets twice a week and one parent or care-giver must be present with the child in class. Class price includes $30 fee for Royal Conservatory of Music
Fundamentals of Violin/Fiddle - 2025-Winter/Spring Semester
03/27/25 - 04/24/25, 6:00pm - 7:00pm | TH
Ages 8 to 12 | Annie Stark | 10th & Mass Studios
Enrolling Now | STMY43
Members $100 | Non-Members $100
Group violin class to work on fundamentals and develop good technique. Students will need to purchase Essential Elements for Strings - Violin Book 1 with EEi Students must provide their own instrument.

Performance Skill Building

Summer Youth Theatre

SYT Senior: ALICE BY HEART[25SU]
06/30/25 - 07/25/25, 4:00PM - 9:30PM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 14 to 18 | Justin Harbaugh | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | BYHEART
Members $335 | Non-Members $335
AUDITIONS HELD ON APRIL 27th: From the Tony® and Grammy® award-winning creators of Spring Awakening, Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik, and co-written by Jessie Nelson (Waitress). In the rubble of the London Blitz of World War II, Alice Spencer’s budding teen life is turned upside down, and she and her dear friend Alfred are forced to take shelter in an underground tube station. When the ailing Alfred is quarantined, Alice encourages him to escape with her into their cherished book and journey down the rabbit hole to Wonderland. This musical encourages us all to celebrate the transformational power of the imagination, even in the harshest of times. Rehearsals: 4 weeks, June 30-July 24. No rehearsal July 4. M-Th | 4-9:30PM & F | 4-7PM. Performances: July 25 | 7PM, July 26 | 2PM & 7PM. SYT placement is by grade, contact us if you have questions about which program to enroll your child. Please note that students in this production will have an independent dinner break during rehearsal that is not overseen by LAC staff members.
Fairytaletopia[25SU]
05/27/25 - 05/30/25, 9:00AM - 11:30AM | TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 6 to 10 | MK Shultz | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | ROOKIESA
Members $100 | Non-Members $100
All the classic fairytale characters live together in fairytaletopia. What legendary story will be told next?
Magic Wands[25SU]
06/2/25 - 06/6/25, 9:00AM - 11:30AM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 6 to 10 | Jeanne C. Averill | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | ROOKIESB
Members $125 | Non-Members $125
Calling all aspiring witches and wizards! Create your magic wand and let’s go on an adventure! Complete with dynamic original characters, action-packed sets, and costumes that showcase their newfound powers. What spells will you cast?
Journey Quest: Stage & Screen[25SU]
06/9/25 - 06/13/25, 9:00AM - 11:30AM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 6 to 10 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | ROOKIESC
Members $125 | Non-Members $125
Join the quest in this fun and adventurous theatre camp for young performers. This experience is designed to inspire kids to use their imagination, build confidence, and explore the magical world of theatre. Campers will embark on a whimsical journey as they create and perform in an original play filled with brave heroes, and courageous adventures.
The Inventor's Lab[25SU]
06/16/25 - 06/20/25, 9:00AM - 11:30AM | MO, TU, WE, FR
Ages 6 to 10 | Elizabeth Sullivan | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | ROOKIESD
Members $100 | Non-Members $100
Welcome to the Inventors Lab, where each experiment holds a quirky surprise! We will embark on a whimsical journey to create a story. From crafting peculiar characters to designing wacky-themed sets and costumes, campers will transform this unique world into a stage filled with laughter and surprises.
Mythical Creatures[25SU]
06/30/25 - 07/3/25, 9:00AM - 11:30AM | MO, TU, WE, TH
Ages 6 to 10 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | ROOKIESE
Members $100 | Non-Members $100
Join the quest to collect Mythical Creatures Use your imagination, build confidence, and explore the magical world of theatre. Campers will embark on a mystical journey as they create and perform in an original play filled with fantastical creatures and exciting adventures.
Dino Detectives[25SU]
07/7/25 - 07/11/25, 9:00AM - 11:30AM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 6 to 10 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | ROOKIESF
Members $125 | Non-Members $125
Join us for a thrilling, action-packed adventure as we dive into the world of mystery and suspense! Campers will work together to solve the baffling disappearance of a beloved dino, all while uncovering secrets, clues, and hidden surprises along the way. Through engaging acting exercises, improvisation, and character development, young performers will bring this whodunit to life!
Adventures Through Time[25SU]
07/14/25 - 07/18/25, 9:00AM - 11:30AM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 6 to 10 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | ROOKIESG
Members $125 | Non-Members $125
Students will dive into the world of improvisation, acting, and storytelling as they work together to pull off a series of “time heists” in our zany, action-packed camp. Think you can pull off the perfect caper without getting caught?
A Gaggle of Greek Gods[25SU]
07/21/25 - 07/25/25, 9:00AM - 11:30AM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 6 to 10 | MK Shultz | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | ROOKIESH
Members $125 | Non-Members $125
Up on Mount Olympus, what adventures will the greek gods and goddesses get up to? What will save the day? Athena’s smarts, Zeus’s lightning, Apollo’s arrows… or something else entirely?
SYT Internship Program[25SU]
05/30/25 - 07/25/25, 12:30PM - 1:30PM | TH
Ages 15 to 21 | Justin Harbaugh | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | INTERNS
Members $0 | Non-Members $0
SYT's Internship Program is open to high school and college students who want to explore a hands-on theatre work study experience. Each student will be assigned a role for a specific show and will be required to attend weekly meetings over the course of eight weeks. We will be taking a total of twelve to fourteen participants this summer. All positions will be paid by stipend. Our goal is to provide specialized job training and real work experience to make students more competitive in the professional world. To apply, email a resume and letter of interest to Elizabeth Sullivan at elizabeth@lawrenceartscenter.org by Saturday, April 27th. SYT placement is by grade, contact us if you have questions about which program to enroll your child.
SYT Novice/Junior: Shrek the Musical, Jr.[25SU]
05/27/25 - 06/12/25, 1:00PM - 5:00PM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 10 to 14 | TBD | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | SHREKJ
Members $285 | Non-Members $285
AUDITIONS HELD ON APRIL 27th Beauty is in the eye of the ogre in Shrek The Musical JR., based on the Oscar-winning DreamWorks Animation film and fantastic Broadway musical. It's a "big bright beautiful world" as everyone's favorite ogre, Shrek, leads a cast of fairytale misfits on an adventure to rescue a princess and find true acceptance. Part romance and part twisted fairy tale, Shrek JR. is an irreverently fun show with a powerful message for the whole family. SYT placement is by grade, contact us if you have questions about which program to enroll your child. Rehearsals: 3 weeks, May 27-June 12. M-F | 1-5PM. Performances: June 13 | 7PM, June 14 | 2PM & 7PM.
SYT Senior: The (T-)Re(x)formation[25SU]
05/27/25 - 06/18/25, 4:00PM - 9:30PM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 14 to 18 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | TREX
Members $335 | Non-Members $335
AUDITIONS HELD ON APRIL 27th From our very own, SYT alum, MK Shultz. A gaggle of teens reunite at Catholic summer camp after their freshman year of high school. Amidst the rising complications of adolescence, identity, and religious belief, another mystery unfolds: the spirit of a vengeful dinosaur haunting the camp. SYT placement is by grade, contact us if you have questions about which program to enroll your child. Rehearsals: 4 weeks, May 27 - June 18. No rehearsal June 19. M-Th | 4-9:30PM & F | 4-7PM. Performances: June 20 | 7PM, June 21 | 2PM & 7PM Please note that students in this production will have an independent dinner break during rehearsal that is not overseen by LAC staff members. No class on June 19th in observation of Juneteenth.
SYT Novice/Junior: Escape from the Labyrinth[25SU]
06/30/25 - 07/17/25, 1:00PM - 5:00PM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 10 to 14 | Elizabeth Sullivan | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | ESCAPEL
Members $285 | Non-Members $285
AUDITIONS HELD ON APRIL 27th. In a world ruled by fickle Gods and dangerous beasts, heroes are made—or lost forever. Theseus and Icarus are no strangers to danger. Born to flawed parents and thrown into a world full of impossible challenges, they must fight to survive. From treacherous journeys to Athens to the deadly labyrinth of the Minotaur, their fates are tangled in romance, trickery, . the ever-meddling hands of the Gods. But in a land where monsters lurk in the shadows and escape is never certain, who will rise, and who will fall? Told in a thrilling open theatre style, Escape from the Labyrinth is a bold reimagining of Greek mythology, where the world itself comes to life—heroes, villains, creatures, and even the very land they walk on. Dare to step inside? SYT placement is by grade, contact us if you have questions about which program to enroll your child. Rehearsals: 3 weeks, June 30 - July 17. No rehearsal July 4. M-F | 1-5PM. Performances: July 18 | 7PM, July 19 | 2PM & 7PM.
Creative Play: July Session 1[25SU]
07/7/25 - 07/11/25, 1:00PM - 1:55PM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 3 to 6 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | PLAY1
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
Join us for a Summer Youth Theatre experience for our youngest performers. Using their wildest imaginations, students will engage with each other through play and dramatic exploration. This course takes place at 10th & Mass Studios. SYT placement is by grade, contact us if you have questions about which program to enroll your child.
Creative Play: July Session 2[25SU]
07/21/25 - 07/25/25, 1:00PM - 1:55PM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 3 to 6 | TBD | 10th & Mass Studios
N/A | PLAY2
Members $80 | Non-Members $80
Join us for a Summer Youth Theatre experience for our youngest performers. Using their wildest imaginations, students will engage with each other through play and dramatic exploration. This course takes place at 10th & Mass Studios. SYT placement is by grade, contact us if you have questions about which program to enroll your child.

Technical Theatre

Stage Craftin' 2: Technical Boogaloo[25WSP]
03/29/25 - 04/19/25, 1:30PM - 4:30PM | SA
Ages 14 to 18 | Lexey Jost | Lawrence Arts Center
Enrolling Now | STMY71
Members $160 | Non-Members $160
Deep-dive into the five facets of technical theatre in this class. Subjects include advanced stage carpentry, scenic painting, stage lighting, color theory with light and fabric, theatrical drafting techniques, and scenic model building. SAFETY & CLOTHES: Student workwear may get dirty or torn. Long hair and bangs need to be pulled back. Closed-toe shoes with good traction required (no Crocs, sandals, or similar).
SYT Costumes: June Session[25SU]
05/27/25 - 06/20/25, 9:30AM - 12:30PM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 11 to 18 | Maya Sabatini | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | SUTMCOST1
Members $250 | Non-Members $250
Guided by industry professionals, students will learn the basics of costume design and use their skills to bring costumes to life for our exciting summer season! As part of this course, participation in June SYT performances is optional. No class on June 19th in observation of Juneteenth. SYT placement is by grade, contact us if you have questions about which program to enroll your child.
SYT Tech: June Session[25SU]
05/27/25 - 06/20/25, 9:00AM - 12:30PM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 11 to 18 | Lexey Jost | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | SUTMTECH1
Members $275 | Non-Members $275
Guided by industry professionals, tech theatre students will learn "behind the scenes" basics, specializing in the area that interests them the most: lighting, painting, carpentry, sound, property, and rigging. As part of this course, each student will work as a crew member on one of our June SYT performances. No class on June 19th in observation of Juneteenth. SYT placement is by grade, contact us if you have questions about which program to enroll your child.
SYT Tech: July Session[25SU]
06/30/25 - 07/25/25, 9:00AM - 12:30PM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 11 to 18 | Lexey Jost | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | SUTMTECH2
Members $275 | Non-Members $275
Guided by industry professionals, tech theatre students will learn "behind the scenes" basics, specializing in the area that interests them the most: lighting, painting, carpentry, sound, property, and rigging. SYT placement is by grade, contact us if you have questions about which program to enroll your child. As part of this course, each student will work as a crew member on one of our July SYT performances. No class July 4 & 5 in observation of Independence Day.
SYT Costumes: July Session[25SU]
06/30/25 - 07/25/25, 9:30AM - 12:00PM | MO, TU, WE, TH, FR
Ages 11 to 18 | Knox McClendon | Lawrence Arts Center
N/A | SUTMCOST2
Members $250 | Non-Members $250
Guided by industry professionals, students will learn the basics of costume design and use their skills to bring costumes to life for our exciting summer season! As part of this course, participation in July SYT performances is optional. No class July 4 & 5 in observation of Independence Day. SYT placement is by grade, contact us if you have questions about which program to enroll your child.
kids in a play in stage

Make Art Part of Their Daily Life

Interested in enrolling in youth 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.

kids in a play

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 theatre and 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 Youth Theatre And Music Classes?