National Players also offers educational theatre workshops for all ages, from young children to seniors. Each member of National Players is a skilled teaching artist and can adapt the workshop to the ages, skill levels, and abilities of the students. Our workshops can be integrated and applied to most curricula and can be done inside and outside the classroom. In-person workshops last for a minimum of 45 minutes and are best with groups of no more than 30 people. Virtual masterclasses or discussions facilitated by National Players are available upon request.
Workshops offered:
Text in Context
A great compliment to students studying the play's text or seeing our productions. Learn from the actors themselves and get an inside look at the production process. Students can discuss the play’s characters and themes, as well as why these classics still matter with guidance from the National Players.
Acting and Improv
Step out of your comfort zone and think on your feet. Learn valuable techniques with the National Players through fun theatre games and activities to help you practice taking risks and build your confidence onstage and off.
Speak the Speech: Shakespeare
Shakespeare isn’t intimidating when it’s taught by the National Players. See Shakespeare through new eyes with this engaging class that is a combination of text analysis, discussion, and performance.
The Noise Within: Voice
This workshop is for everyone and is much more than learning how to speak loudly. By learning basics such as breath control and sound placement, you can use your physical voice to the greatest effect—whether you’re performing eight shows a week, presenting a report in class, or speaking up when it matters.
Command the Room: Movement
Your body communicates even more information than your words. Through movement exercises and ensemble work, the National Players will help you take command of your space and use your body to communicate effectively and safely both on and off the stage.
Word to Action: Playwriting
Everyone has a story to tell, and writing a play is a great way to share it. Be inspired to share your voice and collaborate with others with guidance from the National Players. This class is a great option for beginners exploring the elements of story all the way to the next up-and-coming writers interested in honing their skills.
Make a Career as an Artist
Often people ask us about our journey to where we are today, so we thought, "How can we level the playing field and make information about the theatre industry more accessible?" The answer: a workshop on making a career as an artist. Ideal for people interested in pursuing theatre—or any career in the arts—in higher education and the professional world. Get an overview of a variety of careers in the arts from dramaturgs to stage managers, designers, and more. National Players will offer advice about headshots, auditions, resumes, and more industry tips for aspiring thespians for each stage of your career.
The National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest presents Shakespeare in American Communities. Olney Theatre Center is one of 40 professional theater companies across the nation selected to perform a Shakespeare play with a professional team of actors for middle- and high-schools and conduct related educational activities for students.
