How many students are in a workshop?
There are a maximum of 15 students in most sessions; summer classes have a maximum of 20.  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!


Do I need experience to participate?
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.


Where are the classes, rehearsals and performances?
All classes and rehearsals are located at Pheasant Run Resort unless otherwise specified.  Classes, rehearsals and performances take place at various locations throughout the resort, and occasionally change location during the session.  Once registered, you will receive an email a few days before the start of the class session with location information including a resort map, among other things.  If the class changes location, you will also receive an email notification.  The Youth Ensemble seasonal musical always performs on the Mainstage.


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 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.


What is the deadline for enrollments?
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.  Click here for the application.
What is the difference between Technique and Performance classes?

What are the differences in classes?
TECHNIQUE classes are meant to teach and strengthen specific performing skills.  For instance, in an Acting Technique class participants work on character development and scene study to help each student become a better actor.  A technique class is about learning particular skills rather than preparing for a performance.  Popular TV shows and films are often used. The resulting showcase is an opportunity to demonstrate to family and friends what was learned during the week.

PERFORMANCE classes are more about the experience of preparing for a show.  Focus is not solely on specific skills, but on the overall understanding of what it takes to put on a performance.   Due to time restraints in classes, participants perform certain scenes and songs rather than a full-length show. Students often share roles.  There are usually a few roles that are very popular. By sharing, more students are able to experience the role they are interested in performing. Additionally, class members learn from each other when observing another student portraying the same role. YOUTH ENSEMBLE is an audition-only group of the best and the brightest talent in the area.  Although Youth Ensemble is also educational in nature, roles are not shared, and are not equal in size (although we do have all participants on the stage as much as possible).  Our TECHNIQUE and PERFORMANCE classes prepare individuals to audition and perform in our Youth Ensemble.






What do I need to do for an audition?
In PERFORMANCE classes, everyone gets a part! Roles are assigned during the first rehearsal. For these classes, auditions consist of reading in character from the script. Musicals require singing a short song, preferably a show tune. Casting is based on ability and audition technique. 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 a students does not get the part they wanted, we encourage them to take our advantage of our TECHNIQUE classes to improve 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 musicals are produced, directed and performed on the Mainstage in the same manner as our professional theatre productions.

Auditions for Youth Ensemble productions will be posted on our website at the Audition Page

• Bring a headshot and a resume
• Dance training is helpful, but not necessary; all will be taught a dance routine
• Prepare a 1-minute monologue
• Prepare 16 bars of a song that best displays your talent
• Bring sheet music; an accompanist will be provided
• You may be asked to do a cold reading from the script
  

How are Youth Ensemble roles cast?
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 or open toes shoes for safety reasons, plus 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 a personal bottle of water labeled with the student's name in a plastic container. Students typically take a short break halfway through the class. Kids are encouraged to bring a snack (grapes, carrots, fruit snacks, Goldfish, popcorn--please, nothing crumbly, messy or sticky) but must clean up after themselves. Bottled water and snacks are available at Thieves' Market on Bourbon Street. We also ask that students old enough to write bring paper and an pen or pencil for notes.

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


Can I stay with my child during class?
We ask that parents do not stay in the classroom. The students find this distracting.  Each session ends with a performance or showcase that parents, families and friends are encouraged to attend.


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. Please note: Once registration is processed, no refunds will be issued for any reason unless the class is cancelled by NFT.


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.  Tickets are also available through Ticketmaster.

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

 

Be sure to visit our Policy Page for more information.

Call 630-364-0550 or email education@noblefool.org with additional questions.