Summer programs provide a fun and educational immersion into the world of

performance and professional theatre for ages 11 thru 17

Madison , NJ — The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is now accepting applications for its 2007 Junior Corps and Senior Corps , two summer theatre programs designed for students ages 11 to 14 and 14 to 17, respectively.

Now in their fifteenth year, the programs provide an arena in which young people can expand their performance skills and gain a deeper understanding of classic texts, while at the same time, meet new friends and have a great time. During each intensive session, students take classes, rehearse scenes, meet with professional artists from the Theatre's Main Stage productions, and develop an original production based on classic literature. To register, or for more information, call 973-408-3980 or email jbgrant@shakespearenj.org

  
The Junior Corps

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey's Junior Corps is a two-week summer acting program for ages 11 through 14 . The program offers a unique opportunity for aspiring young actors as well as youngsters making their first foray into theatre.

Each two-week Junior Corps session includes hands-on training in voice and speech for the stage, movement for the actor, Shakespeare's text, improvisation, stage combat and scene study. The session culminates in a short original production, adapted from Shakespeare or another piece of classic literature, which is performed before an audience of family members, friends, local residents and Shakespeare Theatre company members. While developing basic acting skills , the Junior Corps curriculum also emphasizes self-confidence, collaboration, creativity and teamwork . The Junior Corps offers two sessions during the summer: July 9 through 21, and July 23 through August 4 . Classes are held Monday through Fridays from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m.. No audition is required for admission into the Junior Corps, but space is limited. To register, or for more information, call 973-408-3980 or email jbgrant@shakespearenj.org.

The Senior Corps

The Senior Corps is a three-week program designed for students ages 14 to 17 who demonstrate an aptitude for performance or a strong interest in theatre. The Senior Corps builds upon the foundation of the Junior Corps curriculum with an enhanced focus on Shakespeare, the rehearsal process, performance techniques and the nuts and bolts of the profession.

Students take classes in voice and speech, movement for the actor, improvisation, Shakespearean scene study, stage combat and audition technique. The session culminates with a performance piece – either a collection of Shakespeare scenes, or a condensed version of a Shakespeare play – which is presented to family, friends, local community residents and Shakespeare Theatre company members. Admission to the Senior Corps is by audition only and space is limited.

Students will meet with The Theatre's professional resident artists in master classes and discussions. Each student will also come away from the program with a rehearsed and critiqued Shakespeare monologue of his or her choice – a great asset for auditioning for colleges or other theatre programs. All members serve as ushers at the Theatre's Main Stage and Outdoor Stage, providing an opportunity for students to work with the public while experiencing the Theatre's professional productions.

Two sessions are offered this summer, the first from June 18 through July 7 and the second from August 6 through 25 . Classes are held Monday through Friday, from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. To sign up for an audition slot, or for more information, call 973-408-3980 or email jbgrant@shakespearenj.org.

Tuition for each two-week Junior Corps session is $600. Returning students or children of 2007 Season subscribers receive a $100 discount. Enrollment is limited, so early registration is strongly encouraged.

Members of the Senior Corps are selected by audition only. The three-week sessions are $700 each. Returning students or children of 2007 Season subscribers receive a $100 discount.

To register for the Junior Corps, arrange a Senior Corps audition, or request additional information, contact Jamie Brink-Grant at 973-408-3980 or jbgrant@shakespearenj.org.

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The acclaimed Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey is an independent, professional theatre company located on the Drew University campus. One of the leading Shakespeare theatres in the nation, serving 100,000 adults and children annually, it is New Jersey 's only professional theatre company dedicated solely to Shakespeare's canon and other world classics. Through its distinguished productions and education programs, the company strives to illuminate the universal and lasting relevance of the classics for contemporary audiences.

The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey's programs are made possible, in part, by funding from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as funds from the National Endowment for the Arts.  Additional major support is received from The Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation, the F. M. Kirby Foundation, The Edward T. Cone Foundation, The Shubert Foundation and Drew University , as well as contributions from numerous corporations, foundations, government agencies and individuals.  American Airlines is the official airline of The Shakespeare Theatre of New Jersey. Crystal Rock Water is the company's official water provider. Barefoot Wine is the official wine provider.