Terra Arts Theater Program
Terra Art's core objective is Teaching Everything Through Art; our Theater Program fully embraces that ideal.
Founded initially over 10 years ago, we believe every opportunity to create is a chance to educate, and so we offer diverse classes from professional artists that make your child’s theater experience both inspirational and educational.
Our program is not just for the theater kid, but for those who want to learn more about collaborative art. Our immersive program sets us apart from nearly every other Theater program in Southern California because we specialize in individual artistic development. Due to this we regularly attract some of the most talented K–8 students in our county - we then work with students individually and collectively, grounding them in the fundamentals of musical performance, acting, stage production, and even dramaturgy.
VALUE
Our program offers by far the most affordable youth theater experience in the area. While most youth theater classes offer one hour per week, our program features 2½ hours of instruction each week, and for a fraction of competitor prices. The amount you spend on your student's education here is less than most babysitting fees.
Our delight is learning, and it is contagious to the students. Each director has years of experience in their field, and we ensure that we are teaching as thoroughly as we wish we had been taught at their age. We believe artworks are best practiced after learning the correct musical tools and the most attainable acting techniques, all while maintaining a proper historical awareness of the source material. Before auditions take place, students are immersed in three courses to best equip their role in Theater.
EDUCATION
BACKSTAGE TALENT
We strive to position our students to thrive on stage, but not everyone loves the limelight. In response, the theater team uses their deep professional knowledge of production and stage management, and invite interested students into the backstage process of the show. Our students gain experience in practical skills such as lighting, stage management, sound design, stage design, costume design, and prop design.
The theater program consists of three staff members who currently serve over 200 students across four casts. Therefore, we rely on a strong culture of volunteer participation from student families to help our performances succeed. This communal approach to youth theater forges a close bond between the casts and their families, and in fact, has become one of the most memorable facets of our program. Parent volunteers have lent their expertise on everything from carpentry to sound design, hair and makeup, and costume design.
COMMUNITY
DIVERSITY
With each educator, there is a different specialization of talent, and so we expect the same in our students. Our classes, consistent with the rest of Terra’s programs, are a vibrant mix of art media and activities developed to be age-appropriate for our K–8 students. Learning about all the different roles and possibilities brings a level of respect for each other, and helps us find where we fit best.
In preparing for performing The Sound of Music, our students have studied the Annexation of Austria (Anschluss), the cultural practice of alpine yodeling, and the biography of the real Maria von Trapp. Any given week, Terra’s theater kids engage in hands-on prop-making and improvisation, as well as performance techniques derived from Dalcroze eurythmics, Kodály singing method, Stanislavski acting methods, and Alexander Technique.
EXCELLENCE
CAMARADERIE
Kindness is our highest priority here–the natural byproduct is of course friendship. Our students are eager to return each week and see friends. They have the benefit of knowing their teachers truly care for their well-being, and the environment is filled with people who want to be a part of everything.
One of the most rewarding moments for theater teachers is when we see the most unsuspecting children, who were hesitant to play an acting role, seize their moment on stage.
Testimonials
You all are amazing!
Thank you for making auditions such a fun and safe space for all. The kids were all amazing and that is a reflection of your wonderful teaching. Our kiddos are so lucky to have you!
Abby Garrett
Kids don’t cry alone at your academy—-absolutely incredible.
They get to feel the amazing breeze at the venue you’ve helped improve, knowing without a doubt that they are seen, valued, safe, and loved. AND that my kids get to see the same teachers year after year (it’s so hard to find places with low turnaround right now), brings a level of attachment, community, and excitement. It is so important for children to attach to strong, humble, positive adults as childhood friendships and peer relations can be less forgiving, etc. I can’t believe every teacher on campus knows my children by name.
Tory Inloes
