New Theatre Workshops Designed for Theatre Lovers age 55 and up
Saint Paul, Minn., March 14, 2018 – In partnership with Aroha Philanthropies, Park Square Theatre announces its first hands-on theatre workshops for adults 55 and up. The Saint Paul theatre company – well known for its teen education program, which introduces 30,000 students in 7th-12th grade to live professional theatre each season – is piloting two public workshops this year as well as a series offered with Lyngblomsten Care Center’s “2nd Half” program in Saint Paul. The program is designed to spark creative potential and fun for older adults with leading Twin Cities stage artists. Workshops are eight sessions each with an optional opportunity to present what they have learned on Park Square’s Andy Boss Thrust Stage. The cost for each workshop is $90 or $150 per couple.
The series kicks off April 10 with “Storytelling: From the Page to the Stage” taught by Dane Stauffer, star of the recent musical hit GLENSHEEN and recent performance in Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol on Park Square’s Boss Stage. Using writing exercises and theatre games, participants will develop their unique point of view, and learn how to express themselves freely in all situations. Over eight sessions, Stauffer will lead the class through exercises to develop a collaborative ensemble and help each participant write and perform a story with conviction and joy. The class will culminate in an optional storytelling evening in Park Square Theatre’s Andy Boss Thrust Stage.
The series continues on Sept 10 with a workshop called “Make ‘em Laugh: Comedy Styles and Performance” designed and led by actress, comedian and writer Shanan Custer (co-creator and star of the upcoming Park Square production of SOMETIMES THERE’S WINE). Custer will explore the genius of comedy greats like Charlie Chaplin, Lucille Ball, and Carol Burnett and teach the techniques they used to create each type of comedy. Exercises and games will help participants discover and refine their ability to create and perform comedy, whether the goal is an open mic night or just to be the life of the party.
“The chance to work in a small group with these amazing artists is truly special,” says Park Square’s Education Director Mary M. Finnerty. “You can’t find better artists who are truly dedicated to working with older adults to help them bond, have fun and learn new skills. You should walk away reveling in how creative and spontaneous you really are – especially if you’ve never done anything like this.”
This pilot series is underwritten by Aroha Philanthropies, founded by Falcon Heights Native Ellen Michelson. “Today, we can expect thirty more years of life than past generations – years that hold tremendous, but often untapped, potential for vitality and contribution,” says Michelson. “Engaging in the arts has always brought joy into my life, from childhood to the present day. As we age, our capacity for creativity increases and making art together opens the creative spirit, brings us together, and adds joy to the years after 55.”
To register for the workshops, contact Park Square Ticket Office between Noon to 5:00 pm Tuesday through Friday at 651.291.7005 or visit https://www.parksquaretheatre.org/education/adult-education-theatre-workshops/
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