WORKSHOPS

Each of TES Theatre’s Workshops focuses on a specific topic. Join us for one, or many, of these opportunities to dive deep into theatre themes that interest you. This is a great way to try TES Theatre!

Ages 10 – 18

• Single Workshop $40 (only $25 for current TES students)
• Four-pack $140 (only $80 for current TES students)

IN PERSON on select Fridays, 1 – 3pm, at Renegade Theatre (8877 Selkirk St)

ONLINE on select Wednesdays, 12 – 1pm (zoom)

TEACHERS: These workshops are as educational as they are fun. We have group rates for school field trips (or virtual field trips), and we will provide curriculum/learning outcome details for each one. Please email TEStheatrecompany@gmail.com to register your students.

2023/24 Workshop Dates

In person Fridays Oct 6, Nov 3, Dec 1, Jan 12, Feb 2, Mar 1, Apr 5, May 3

Online Wednesdays Oct 4, Nov 1, Dec 6, Jan 10, Feb 7, Mar 6, Apr 3, May 1

WORKSHOP TOPICS

THE ART OF CLOWNING

Fri Dec 1, 1 – 3pm IN PERSON, with guest instructor Sterling Weran

Did you know that clowning can be traced back to ancient Egypt? Did you know there is a clowning college in France? The word ‘clown’ might bring to mind heavy stage make-up and a red nose, but the traditional art of clowning is a serious study involving rigorous training and dedication. Clowning is the practice of physical comedy, elevated slapstick, and dynamic theatrics. Clowning is a way of interacting responsively with the audience to bring laughter and joy; of showcasing the inherent humour in self-awareness; and in learning how to channel our impulsive instincts for comedy. This workshop is fun. You will learn how to embrace and harness your inner clown.

COSTUMING & DESIGN

Wed Dec 6, 12 – 1pm ONLINE, with instructor Isabella Halladay

Acting isn’t the only thing happening on the stage! Did you know that costume and set design also play a central role in establishing information, such as tone, genre, era, location, mood, and setting. Costume and set design can enhance a script, adding to text or subtext in visual ways, or can provide pivotal action when serving as comedic device, rotating stage, secret passageway or trick-costume changes. In this exciting workshop, we explore concepts in design, look at ways that design interacts with the script, and consider some famous examples. And of course, we get creative with our own novel ideas.

HISTORY OF MUSICAL THEATRE

Wed Jan 10, 12 – 1pm ONLINE, with instructor Isabella Halladay

Fri Jan 12, 1 – 3pm IN PERSON, with instructor Isabella Halladay

Although music has been part of theatre since ancient times, the modern musical first came to fruition in the mid 1800’s. Learn all about the fascinating history of musical theatre in this informative workshop: the four main genres, the common range of tropes, characters, conceits, dramatic devices and narrative arcs, and the theatrical antecedents that paved the way for this unique genre. This workshop is educational, but also participatory: students will explore and try out different musical theatre styles from different eras as they learn about the historical context.

MONOLOGUES

Fri Feb 2, 1- 3pm IN PERSON, with instructor Isabella Halladay

Wed Feb 7, 12 – 1pm ONLINE, with instructor Isabella Halladay

Monologues can provide a singular moment for both performer and play, shining a spotlight for acting skill, and highlighting for the character’s inner workings. Monologues are often required for auditions, and can allow an unparalleled opportunity to showcase one’s range. Join TES Theatre to learn some of the do’s and don’ts of monologues, how to make the most of your moment, how to avoid common mistakes, and how to select the right monologue for your own abilities. There is so much you can do with a monologue! Come for this fun focused workshop to explore the vast creative potential within a monologue.

SHAKESPEARE IN ACTION

Fri Mar 1, 1 – 3pm IN PERSON, with instructor Isabella Halladay

Wed Mar 6, 12 – 1pm ONLINE, with instructor Isabella Halladay

Shakespeare can be confusing to read, but how is it meant to come across on stage? Experience the magic when you learn how to bring Shakespearean texts to life! Join Bard on the Beach instructor, and skilled Shakespearean, Isabella Halliday for this two-hour workshop on how to understand Shakespeare as a performer, and harness the meaning and energy in those ancient plays. Learn how to make those scripts sizzle! Shakespeare has never been this much fun.

AUDITIONING

Wed Apr 3, 12 – 1pm ONLINE, with instructor Isabella Halladay

Fri Apr 5, 1 – 3pm IN PERSON, with instructor Isabella Halladay

You might be experienced at singing, dancing, and acting, but do you know how to audition? Auditioning is a necessary hurdle for any performer, and it requires its own unique set of skills. Learn tricks to audition with expertise and aplomb in this fun and light-hearted workshop. You will learn techniques in a zero-pressure, entirely supportive and safe environment, where you can learn how to make your performance shine and still have fun while doing it.

WRITING FOR THE STAGE

Wed May 1, 12 – 1pm ONLINE, with instructor Isabella Halladay

Writing for the stage is a singular and unique form of creative writing. Obviously different than a novel or short story, but also very different than writing for the screen, stage-writing is its very own art form. Discover the distinctive attributes of writing for the stage in this fun and empowering workshop. Learn the important do’s and don’ts, how to adapt your writing for the stage, and how to bring your script to life. Discover your potential as a playwright in this confidence-boosting, informative workshop.

STAGE COMBAT

Fri May 3, 1 – 3pm IN PERSON, with guest instructor

Sword fighting, shooting, stabbing…how to communicate the danger and thrill of combat on stage in an entirely safe way. Learn techniques for swashbuckling and swordplay, weapons, and fisticuffs, to entrance the audience, heighten the adrenaline, and pack your scene with nail-biting action, all choreographed to look convincing without looking canned. Learn the exciting, dynamic art of stage combat with guest instructors. This workshop is a favourite among all participants!

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Single Workshop – $40 ($25 for current TES students)

Four Workshops – $140 ($80 for current TES students)