The goal of the Theatre Department at YPAS is to develop a  quality  product through an emphasis on the artistic process. The course of  study  furthers the disciplines of the theatrical arts and includes instruction  in the  physical, verbal, and structural elements of theatre. A carefully  designed  approach and course of study provide young student performers with the   techniques they will need to freely express their creative energies. An actor’s   instruments are his or her body and voice. In order to be creatively and   technically adept, an actor must gain knowledge, freedom, and control of these   instruments. The Theatre Program encompasses training; creative and imaginative exploration; and the history, literature, and production of the theatre.

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The study of acting is closely related to the production schedule of the school, including both workshops and fully produced plays, which are evaluated and graded. Theatre performances are considered part of the curriculum. YPAS Theatre graduates have received scholarships to continue theatre study at Boston University, Emerson College, Boston Conservatory, Southern Methodist University, Carnegie Mellon University, Wright State University, University of Illinois, Evansville College, and Stephens College.
Some graduates are now performing in Broadway shows, professional repertory companies, soap operas, films, broadcasts, children’s theatre, and commercials; some are even teaching at theatre institutes.

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                                                                         Course Offerings

• Voice and Diction
• International Phonetic Alphabet
• Effective Body Alignment
• Movement Techniques
• Improvisation
• Creative Dramatics
• Monologue and Scene Study
• Theatre History
• Character Analysis
• Audition Techniques
• Poetry Interpretation
• Mask Study
• Stanislavski and Cohen Technique
• Acting Theory
• Period Styles Study
• Play Analysis
• Career Preparation

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