Noble Fool Performing Arts Academy

How many students are in a workshop?
There are a maximum of 15 students in most sessions; everyone participates in every class.

Who takes the workshops?
Students in the workshops come from a wide range of experience including those who are just starting out as well as actors looking to improve their skills. Many students take the workshops just for fun!

No experience necessary! Our open enrollment policy allows anyone to enter our programs regardless of previous experience. Our instructors specialize in challenging and developing students no matter what level they are at when they enter. Participants “learn by doing” not only from the instructor but also from each other.

What is the class environment?
The class environment is positive and professional. No one is harshly critiqued. It is assumed that anyone who takes the class is serious about improving their skills and will be working hard. Practical feedback is given about progress and ways to improve. Positive reinforcement is used.

How much preparation do I need to do outside of class?
It is essential that you have time to rehearse on your own outside of class. Class and rehearsal time should be used for working with other actors, blocking, choreography and developing your character; not to learn lines. Memorization should take place at home.

What is expected of me as a student?
Each class covers a set amount of material. It is important to be able to come to every class and to keep up with the work. Participants are expected to prepare fully, to be reliable rehearsal partners, and to be attentive to and respectful of each others' work in class.

Although we do not have a specific deadline, we strongly encourage you to enroll as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Class sizes are limited and fill up quickly.

Are scholarships available?
Scholarships are available for families in need. Applicants must provide proof of financial need, and the potential student is required to write an accompanying letter detailing why they are deserving of a scholarship. All applications are kept in strict confidence. If a scholarship is awarded, parents/participants will be asked to donate 1 hour per week during the given session and the student will be asked to write weekly for the NFT blog during the class or rehearsal period. Students are eligible for a scholarship once per year.

What do I need to do for an audition?
In PERFORMANCE WORKSHOPS, everyone gets a part! Roles are assigned during the first rehearsal. For these classes, auditions consist of a short monologue in character or reading in character from the script. Solos require singing a short song, preferably a show tune. Casting is based on ability, audition technique, experience and training. While everyone gets a part, not all roles are equal in size. We challenge each student to fulfill their potential, but do not want to put a participant in a situation they are not ready to handle. If you did not get the part you wanted, we encourage you to take our advantage of our other classes to improve your skills. We insure each individual has an equal opportunity. What is done with that opportunity is up to each student.

The YOUTH ENSEMBLE has different requirements. Youth Ensemble is an exclusive, audition-only program for the best and the brightest young talent. This is quality theatre by and for young people.

Participants are responsible for memorizing lines, music and choreography, and learn the craft of theater through the process of preparing for live performances.

Youth Ensemble performances are produced, directed and performed on the Main Stage in the same manner as our professional theatre productions.

Auditions for Youth Ensemble productions will be posted on the website under “Auditions.”

Not everyone that auditions for Youth Ensemble will be cast. Casting will be determined based on ability, training, experience and audition technique. If you have never performed in one of our Youth Ensemble shows, or did not get the part you wanted, we encourage you to take advantage of one of our Performing Arts Academy classes such as Singing Technique, Choreography or Improv. These classes will prepare you for future auditions and improve your chances of landing the part of your dreams!

Can I audit the class?
Everyone is welcome to audit one class. Contact us to arrange an audit. Better yet, come to see our FREE showcases.

What do I wear to class?
Dress comfortably in casual clothes. Ladies, please avoid skirts and dresses and heels as these can inhibit movement. Sneakers or casual shoes are fine. We ask that you do not wear flip flops for safety reasons, and they are very difficult to dance in! Dance, Movement and Fight classes require clothing that stretches. Jazz shoes or ballet shoes can be worn but are not required. Always bring a sweater or sweatshirt.

What should I bring to class?
Always bring personal bottle of water in a plastic container. Students typically take a short break halfway through the classes. You are welcome to bring a snack (grapes, carrots, fruit snacks, Goldfish, popcorn--please, nothing crumbly, messy or sticky) but you must clean up after yourself. Bottled water and snacks are available at Thieves' Market on Bourbon Street. We also ask students to bring paper and an pen or pencil for notes.

For students in a camp or all-day workshop, please bring a bag lunch, several drinks and snacks. You may also purchase lunch at the Terrace Cafe in the resort. There is always supervision during lunch hours.

Can I stay with my child during class?
We ask that parents of children 6 or older do not stay in the classroom. Kids will look to you constantly for approval and often are self-conscious or have trouble focusing when parents are in the room.

What if my child doesn't like the class?
We know how kids react sometimes when they are first exposed to something new. We suggest that you talk to the teacher to get feedback and/or to help your child to feel more at ease. If your child is still feeling uncomfortable, we will do our best to find a new fit.

Can I take pictures and video tape the performances?
Parents are welcome to take photos and videotape showcases and performance classes. Photos and videotaping of Youth Ensemble shows are strictly prohibited due to copyright laws.

Do I need to buy tickets for showcases and performances?
There is no charge for showcases and performances for classes. We do suggest a $5 donation per person to fund NFT scholarships for underprivileged children in the area.

Youth Ensemble performances are treated as any other professional show at Noble Fool Theatricals. Tickets can be purchases at the Pheasant Run Box Office, or by calling 630-584-6342.

Parties of 10 or more, please contact Maggie Cross at 630-524-5071 or mcross@pheasantrun.com.