Students of all ages as well as adults can learn fundamentals of theatre from professional instructors at the Playground Academy, a client of the Fredonia Technology Incubator, 214 Central Ave., Dunkirk. In addition to creating dramatic characters, adults can attend Zumba classes held throughout the week.
“I am thrilled to announce our line-up of classes for the fall that provide unique and challenging opportunities to students of all ages,” said Janie Sharon, founder of Playground Academy, LLC. “As we grow and develop our business, I look forward to expanding the offerings in the future.”
Classes include:
• “Building a Character” – Create a dramatic representation of historical characters. The class, held Tuesdays, 6 to 7:30 p.m., is taught by Fredonia alumna Tina Rausa. Enrollment fee is $12 per class or $115 for 10 weeks.
• “Zumba Lunch Break” – Shake off those morning blues while burning calories. The class, held Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:45 to 1:30 p.m., is taught by Eva Mancarella. Enrollment fee is $8 per session or $75 for 10 sessions.
• “Zumba Weekend Blast” – Begin weekends guilt-free with a heart-pumping workout. The class, held Fridays, 5 to 6 p.m., is taught by Ms. Mancarella. Enrollment fee is $10 per class or $95 for 10 classes.
• “Acting for Stage I” – Explores scenes and monologues with emphasis on character development and acting techniques. The class, for children ages 12-18, is held Mondays, 5:15 to 6:45 p.m., and is taught by Bob Rusch.
• “Acting for Stage II” – Enhance skills through professional training in acting techniques for the stage. The class, for children ages 12-18, is held Mondays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., and is taught by Mr. Rusch.
• “Shining Stars: Beginning Musical Theatre Training” – Dancing, different songs and scenes from well-known Broadway shows are taught. The class, for children ages 6-11, is held Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:15 to 6:15 p.m., and is taught by Ms. Sharon.
• “Broadway Bound: Advanced Musical Theatre Training” – Train as professionals do by learning dances, songs and scenes from Broadway hits. The class, for children ages 12-18, is held Mondays and Wednesdays, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., and is taught by Ms. Sharon.
• “Stage Combat” – Develop unarmed and armed combat skills for the stage. The class, for ages 14-18, is held on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4:15 to 5:15 p.m., and is taught by Steve Vaughn.
Playground Academy, a small business startup and an extension of the Playground Drama Camp held at Fredonia, provides opportunities for students to learn fundamentals of theatre from instructors who work in the theatre profession or are certified instructors. Walk-ins are welcome for adult classes.
For more information, contact Ms. Sharon at (724) 372-5937 or theplaygroundacademy@gmail.com.
