Acting classes help children think creatively

Kids of all ages can catch the acting bug — and learn a little about themselves — through year-round acting classes offered by the Davidson Community Players.

"I think the most visible benefits our classes offer, as well as just generally participating in theater, are self-esteem for the kids, through their solo work on stage and by acting in a group," said Melissa Ohlman-Roberge, DCP resident director and production manager. "With self-esteem, the kids are brave enough to raise their hand and ask questions, which is important when they reach school age.

Self-control is another big quality they develop, because sometimes they have to sit quietly and watch or they may miss something. It all translates into social skills."

Imagination is another benefit Ohlman-Roberge stressed.

"They will be able to think outside the box, since there is no right or wrong answer during these sessions," she said. "They can try out decisions and make choices."

The lessons mature with the students, she said. For example, an older child might be asked to work through situations and explore realities they could be facing with peers.

"We might ask them to act as if they were the bully or being bullied and test choices through improv," she said. "We're striving to engage their verbal and emotional skills to use in the real world."

For younger children, the classes use pretend games or have the group perform as a team while the teacher acts as a narrator, as they did on Saturday morning for "Goin' Global."

"Goin' Global," one of the many classes currently in session, uses folk tales from around the world and allows kids to act out the story line.

"It's a good opportunity to sit down and look at other's points of view from around the world," Ohlman-Roberge said.

Teacher Sarah Provencal encouraged the five students to pick their own costumes from a box and had them act out several short stories, including "The Night the Moon Fell into the Well," from the country of Turkey, and "The Brave but Foolish Bee," originating from Greece.

The lively quintet learned performing etiquette, like how to act backstage, and creatively burned off energy by acting like animals and clowns.

Serena Apostal said her daughter, Samantha, asked to take the classes.

"She saw an outdoor performance from the Connie Company and said she wanted to participate, so we Googled it and here we are."

Apostal said she hoped Samantha gained self-confidence and learned how to stand up in front of a crowd without being shy.

"She also really likes to dress up, don't you?" she asked Samantha, who nodded with a smile.

Tonya Chartier also brought her son, Noah, to experience the class.

"He loves doing drama and acting in front of an audience," she said. "He seems to be having a lot of fun, and I hope he learns stage presence and works on his characterization."

At the end of each class, the children are able to perform for their parents and share what they've learned during the class.

"I think sharing brings closure at the end and showcases everyone's talents," Ohlman-Roberge said. "The parents love to see what they've learned."

According to Ohlman-Roberge, all of the classes for the past session were completely filled. The classes were modeled after the summer camps held this year.

"I also think that classes like these are the building blocks it takes to learn how to be in a play," she said. "They really help in an audition."

A new session of classes begins at the end of October and in the spring, the Davidson Community players will be auditioning for parts in "The House at Pooh Corner."

For more information on upcoming sessions or productions, call the Davidson Community Players at (704) 892-7953 or visit www.davidsoncommunityplayers.com.

DCP classes
With the recent acquisition of their own theatre space, the Armour Street Theatre, DCP is now able to offer theatre learning experiences for preschool through high school students. Here are a few of the classes offered:

- Preschool classes focus on working together, storytelling and basic theatre games. For ages 4-5 on Tuesdays from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Oct. 21-Dec. 9. $65.

- Goin' Global explores stories, poems and music from around the world while building important collaboration skills. Play theatre games and learn basic performance skills in a fun environment. For grades K-2 on Saturdays from 10-11:15 a.m. Oct.-Dec. 6; $65