February 7, 2026 8am-5pm
Wilner Auditorium
A FREE day of workshops in acting, dance, design/technology, and musical theatre for high school students and community teachers!
What to Expect:
- Hands-on sessions led by industry professionals
- Networking opportunities with faculty and peers
- Explore creative tools, techniques, and career pathways
- Bring your own lunch – networking time included!
Schedule At A Glance
| Time | Session | Title |
|---|---|---|
| 8-8:30a | Check-in | Sign in and receive your materials |
| 8:30-8:50a | Event Overview | Welcome remarks and session overview |
| 9:00-10:30a |
Session #1 |
Choreography 101: Exploring the Toolbox Improvisation for the Performer Production Roles & Planning Directing the Musical |
| 10:45a-12:15p | Session #2 (choose one) |
Contemporary Dance Partnering Audition Techniques for Stage & Screen Theatre Design Fundamentals Intimacy Direction: Building Safe and Respectful Performances |
| 12:15-1:00p | Lunch | Bring your own lunch – network and learn about our programs! |
| 1:00-2:30p | Session #3 (choose one) |
Hip Hop Dance Music Theatre Audition Prep Theatre Safety & Technical Direction Combat Fundamentals |
| 2:45-4:15p | Session #4 (choose one) |
Voice, Diction, and Dialects Pilates and Anatomy Fundamentals Creating a Theatre Design/Technology Portfolio Stage Management Essentials |
| 4:15-5:00p | Closing Session |
Wrap up your day with some final thoughts and information. |
Session 1 (9:00 – 10:30 AM)
Choreography 101: Exploring the Toolbox
Dive into the fundamentals of choreography using the elements of space, time, energy,
and effort. This workshop introduces creative tools for structuring movement and developing
dynamic phrases. Participants will experiment with compositional strategies, explore
contrasting qualities, and learn how to create choreography for dance concerts, studio
pieces, and musicals. (Celestin & Bascom)
Improvisation for the Performer
Discover the art of thinking on your feet! This workshop introduces the fundamentals
of improvisational theatre through engaging games, ensemble exercises, and scene work.
Participants will learn the core principle of “yes, and” to build trust and spontaneity,
sharpen listening and response skills, and develop confidence in unscripted moments.
Perfect for anyone looking to enhance collaboration, adaptability, and storytelling
in performance. (Compton)
Production Roles & Planning
Gain insight into the essential roles that bring a performance to life. This workshop
covers the responsibilities of producers, directors, designers, and stage managers,
along with strategies for effective planning and collaboration. Participants will
learn how to create timelines, manage resources, and coordinate teams to ensure smooth
rehearsals and successful productions. (Vetter)
Directing the Musical
Learn the essentials of directing a musical from concept to curtain call. This workshop
explores how to develop a creative vision, collaborate with choreographers and music
directors, and guide performers to deliver cohesive storytelling. Participants will
gain practical strategies for staging, pacing, and integrating music, movement, and
dialogue into a unified production. (McGlaun)
Session 2 (10:45-12:15 PM)
Contemporary Dance Partnering
Explore the art of connection and collaboration through contemporary partnering techniques.
This workshop introduces weight sharing, counterbalance, and momentum-based movement
to build trust and fluidity between partners. Participants will engage in guided exercises
and creative improvisation to develop sensitivity, communication, and dynamic choreography
skills. (Bascom)
Audition Techniques for Stage & Screen
Master the skills to shine in any audition room! This workshop covers essential techniques
for stage and screen, including monologue preparation, cold reading strategies, and
on-camera adjustments. Participants will learn how to make bold choices, present confidently,
and adapt their performance for both live theatre and film environments. (Compton)
Theatre Design Fundamentals
Explore the essential principles of scenic, costume, and lighting design that shape
the visual world of production. This workshop introduces composition, color theory,
and texture, along with practical tips for creating cohesive stage environments. Participants
will learn how design choices support storytelling and enhance audience experience.
(Penkava Koza)
Intimacy Direction: Building Safe and Respectful Performances
Learn best practices for staging intimate moments with care and professionalism. This
workshop focuses on consent-based choreography, clear communication, and boundary-setting
to create a safe environment for performers. Participants will explore tools for trust-building
and techniques that prioritize both artistic integrity and personal well-being. (Mba)
Session 3 (1:00 – 2:30 PM)
Hip Hop Dance
Experience the energy and creativity of hip hop dance! This workshop introduces foundational
moves, musicality, and freestyle techniques while exploring rhythm and personal expression.
Participants will build confidence, develop coordination, and learn how to bring authentic
style to their performance. (Battles)
Music Theatre Audition Prep
Get ready for success in the audition room! This workshop focuses on the essentials
of preparing a musical theatre audition, including selecting appropriate material,
understanding audition etiquette, and organizing your sheet music. Participants will
learn tips for vocal warm-ups, basic movement readiness, and strategies to present
themselves confidently and professionally. (Baker Schwiethale)
Theatre Safety & Technical Direction
Ensure your production runs smoothly and safely! This workshop covers essential safety
protocols for stage and backstage environments, including rigging, electrical practices,
and emergency procedures. Participants will also explore the role of the technical
director in coordinating crews, managing resources, and maintaining compliance with
industry standards. (Baker)
Combat Fundamentals
Learn the art of safe and convincing stage violence! This workshop introduces the
basics of unarmed combat, including slaps, punches, and falls, with an emphasis on
safety, control, and storytelling. Participants will practice choreography techniques
that build trust and create dynamic, realistic fight scenes for stage and screen.
(Urick)
Session 4 (2:45 – 4:15 PM)
Voice, Diction, and Dialects: Expanding Your Vocal Toolbox
Unlock the power of your voice! This workshop focuses on vocal clarity, projection,
and articulation while introducing techniques for mastering dialects. Participants
will practice breath support, resonance, and phonetic tools to confidently adapt their
speech for diverse characters and performance styles. (Urick)
Pilates and Anatomy Fundamentals: Strength, Alignment, and Injury Prevention
Build a strong foundation for performance with this workshop combining Pilates principles
and basic anatomy. Participants will learn exercises to improve core strength, flexibility,
and posture while exploring how muscles and joints function in movement. This session
emphasizes breath, alignment, and safe practices to enhance performance and reduce
injury risk. (Vasquez)
Creating a Theatre Design/Technology Portfolio
Showcase your technical and creative skills with a professional portfolio! This workshop
guides participants through organizing design renderings, production photos, paperwork,
and technical documentation into a clear, compelling format. Learn best practices
for digital and physical portfolios, tips for layout and presentation, and strategies
to highlight your unique strengths for college applications or industry jobs. (Rhoads)
Stage Management Essentials: Organizing Productions and Leading Teams
Discover the critical role of the stage manager in bringing a production to life.
This workshop covers scheduling, cue calling, rehearsal documentation, and communication
strategies that keep the cast and crew organized. Participants will learn practical
tools for leadership and problem-solving to ensure smooth, professional performances.
(Vetter)
Questions? Need more information?
Contact Aviance via the email below or 316-978-5166