Staged Stories 1

Staged Stories 1 is open to all students. This is an in-person course offered for adults ages 55+.

Writing in the Raw (Prerequisite)

Writing in the Raw is open to students who have completed Staged Stories 1. This is an in-person course offered for adults ages 55+.

Beyond Staged Stories (Prerequisite)

Beyond Staged Stories is open to students who have completed Staged Stories 1& 2. This is an in-person course offered for adults ages 55+.

Scripting 1

SCRIPTING I: IDEA TO OUTLINE
Available to first-time participants only. There is no prerequisite for enrollment. If you are a returning writer, please contact Will Nedved for placement in Scripting II.
This is a remote course offered online for adults ages 55+

Scripting 2

SCRIPTING II: OUTLINE TO DRAFT
Available to returning writers who are developing their outlines.
Prerequisite: Scripting I.
This is a remote course offered online for adults 55+.

Scripting 3

SCRIPTING III: WRITING IS REWRITING

Available to returning writers who have completed at least the first draft of their projects. Prerequisite: Scripting II.
This is a remote course offered online for adults 55+.

Fiction: Creating Story

Part of being human is making up stories. We tell fairy tales to delight children, we read novels to lose ourselves in other lives, we watch movies and television to find friends on the other side of a screen. In this class you’ll explore the art of writing fiction by focusing on a specific element each week: character, plot, setting, point of view, and theme. You’ll have the option of writing a new story each week or using the feedback you receive to polish one story until it shines. The writing prompts change each term, so students can repeat the course and always find something new.

Fiction: Story Craft

Great writers have the power to move and enthrall us, but how do they do it? What are the techniques that help a writer move beyond simply recounting an event? In this course, we’ll investigate technical and rhetorical devices employed in crafting effective sentences, memorable characters, and compelling narratives. Weekly writing prompts and class discussion of required reading assignments will guide you through the topics we’ll explore, which include narrative voice, character transformation, and non-linear story structure.

Prerequisite: Fiction: Creating Story or permission of instructor.

Comprehending Life through the Medium of Poetry

This course will encourage students to consider Poetry as a philosophical and practical tool for life. It is strictly about Poetry appreciation. The more Poetry one reads closely the more one’s understanding of the multifaceted benefits of a personal daily practice are understood. Students will be introduced to a broad scope of poems. Emphasis will be placed on the process, structure, and effect of each selected poem. A sense of instant community will be offered to students through the combination of Poetry and Philosophy.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS IS NOT A CREATIVE WRITING CLASS.

Afro Latin Dance with BODYTRAFFIC

Discover the joy of movement in this fun and uplifting dance class designed to support both physical and mental well-being while exploring the rich styles and techniques of Latin and Afro-Cuban dance traditions. Through engaging exercises, participants will develop movement fundamentals, improve mobility and balance, and connect with the music and rhythms that make these styles so dynamic. No dance experience is required—just a willingness to move and enjoy! Designed for ages 55+

Improvisation

Learn the basics of improvisation with games and activities designed to encourage your spontaneity and creativity. No experience necessary! Be ready to move a bit (all abilities are welcome, accommodations will be made so it will be accessible for all) during this course, to interact, to develop your creative instincts and to let your silly side out!

Playmakers Workshop

In this devising course, first-time and returning ensemble members will collaboratively create a NEW, original piece of theater through improvisation, experimentation, and exploration of personal and social themes. No Prerequisite.

A Masterclass in Comedy and New Play Development: Max and Willy’s Last Laugh by Jake Broder and Conor Duffy

Max & Willy's Last Laugh -- features two famous Jewish cabaret performers who in1942 were sent to the Westerbork Transit Camp. They were recognized by the commandant, and offered a choice: they were to perform a weekly show for the inmates, and if the commandant thought they were funny, they wouldn't be sent to Auschwitz on the weekly transport. It was the real 'Funny or Die'. This class will include comedy and dramaturgy workshops. This is an interactive class where students will work on the script, act out scenes, and investigate the background and history of the time and compare it to our world today.

Act 3 All Levels

An acting class for adults 55+, designed for both beginners and experienced performers. Rooted in Sanford Meisner’s approach, the class explores improvisation, scene work, and exercises that build confidence and creativity while encouraging participants to live truthfully under imaginary circumstances. ACT-3 provides a safe space for creative expression and exploration that fosters authentic connection and camaraderie. Taught by Cindy Rucker Trost, Creative Director of the Meisner Institute, who brings over 35 years of experience as a professional actor and teacher, as well as work as a producer and director, the class reflects her passion for creative expression, combining her work as an actor, teacher, writer, and poet to foster authentic connection through the arts.