Theater Education and Training

Use theater education and training to build your confidence and career
By Nikki Davis Theater education and training can be a valuable asset to anyone trying to find a break in the acting industry. It offers valuable experience and credibility to your craft, and it can help give you the confidence you need for auditions and job interviews.

Theater education is available for a wide variety of ages at a large range of levels. From children to adults, theater training is designed to appeal to the masses.

To find the right theater schools or programs for you:

1. Consider the age of the person enrolled in the class or the workshop. Make sure that the program is not too intense for the age group.

2. Make sure that you have the time to commit to your theatrical education before you jump into a project or program.

3. Decide if you are looking for theater classes close to home, or if you are willing to relocate to take your theater courses.

Stay with a local theater education and training class

If you are just starting out in the acting craft, consider theater classes from a local group. Get your feet wet before you decide if it is a career path for you, or if you even enjoy it. Participate in their productions and get the feel for live entertainment.
Try:  Check out the Fine Arts Association. They offer classes from preschool to young actors' study. They also offer private training for theater. Find the classes and workshops offered at the Henry Street Settlement. Their age ranges start at early childhood all the way up to adults. Look into Wheelock Family Theatre Classes offered through Wheelock College. Find children's classes through Children's Theater of Charlotte.

Supplement your theater education with internship programs

Look into internship programs to improve your theater training.
Try:  The New York Theatre Workshop offers Fall, Spring, and Summer internships. You can specialize in Artistic, Development and Planning, Marketing and Communication or the Production department. Try your hand at an internship from the American Repertory Theatre.

• Many university theater schools have cuts every year, so be prepared for a competitive environment where only the top students make it through to receiving a degree.