Southeast will host sessions for budding child actors

Children interested in theater can learn new performance skills through two youth theater sessions at Southeast Missouri State University's River Campus, a news release said.

Elementary and middle-school students may register for two classes -- "Beginning Broadway: The Lion King" or "Youth Theatre Experience: Art Escape." The classes are sponsored by the Earl and Margie Holland School of Visual and Performing Arts.

Sessions will teach theater performance skills and provide acting exercises with the goal of helping them expand self-expression, confidence and teamwork. Each class will culminate in a performance for family, friends and the community.

"The goal of the Youth Theatre Experience is to provide local youth the opportunity to experience all that theater has to offer in a vibrant, creative learning environment. We focus on positive self-awareness, character-building and teamwork which develop not only their acting skills, but positive leadership and citizenship skills as well," Victoria Tuttle said in the release.

Tuttle, a professional teaching artist from Seattle who will coordinate the classes, has taught acting and voice to children for more than a decade and has directed dozens of youth productions and arts education programs.

"Beginning Broadway: The Lion King" is open to first- and second-graders who will explore theater performance through Broadway songs and drama activities, culminating in a performance. All levels of experience are encouraged. Tuition is $90; the workshop will run from March 25 through May 13 with practices from 4 to 5 p.m. Tuesdays at the River Campus. Space is limited.

"Youth Theatre Experience: Art Escape" will introduce children in grades three through eight to theater performance with storytelling and ends with a tour of performances to area retirement communities and the Cape Girardeau Public Library on May 10 and 17. Tuition is $150, and all levels of experience are encouraged. The workshop will run from March 29 through May 17 with practices from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays at the River Campus. Space is limited.

Information and online registration is available at rivercamusevents.com or by calling 651-2210.